Generated by All in One SEO v4.9.9, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site. # Scottish Mum ## Sitemaps - [XML Sitemap](https://scottishmum.com/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website. ## Posts - [And The Band Played - Believe It If You Like !](https://scottishmum.com/2011/03/and-the-band-played-believe-it-if-you-like/) - That was one of my mothers favourite sayings. Whenever she thought I was not telling the whole truth, out came the stock sentence which I knew meant that she knew I was fibbing. That's how I knew I was in trouble when I was supposed to be at college, and when a pal and I - [Running on Empty - What I've Learned from beginning to Run](https://scottishmum.com/2016/03/running-on-empty-what-ive-learned-from-beginning-to-run/) - collaborative post I did my first 10K yesterday. It was on the treadmill, and it took me forever, and I also had to walk a bit of it, but I ran solid for 90 minutes before I had to walk for a little bit, then I ran to the end. Yes, I'm slow. It's more - [Personal Trainer or Not?](https://scottishmum.com/2016/12/personal-trainer-or-not/) - This is quite a personal post. It's pretty long, but I think it's necessary to show how I've felt about exercise and my health. It's also as a very big thank you to people who have given me some very special time, and have recently been helping me enormously. Ok, on with it. None of - [Life Happens, Changes are Disappointing, but Just Get Back on the Horse!!!!!](https://scottishmum.com/2017/04/life-happens-changes-are-disappointing-but-just-get-back-on-the-horse/) - After doing so well right until after Christmas, my daily life schedule took a nosedive. My mum went into hospital with a broken hip, and ended up in a much worse state, that I'm not going to mention again today, and I lost complete control over my eating and life for a while. It happens, - [A Little Thing Called Dementia](https://scottishmum.com/2015/04/a-little-thing-called-dementia/) - It's the little things that count, right? Of course they do. I have two parents with vascular dementia, both very likely brought on by strokes. Both affected very differently and both with different levels of needs on any particular day. My dad, in particular is very mistrustful of people, and finds new people very difficult - [I May Be A Type 2 Diabetic](https://scottishmum.com/2015/05/i-may-be-a-type-2-diabetic/) - After a few weeks of checking my blood glucose levels, it turns out I may actually be diabetic. By saying 'may,' I am more than likely simply underestimating the effect. My blood sugar readings over the time I've pricked my fingers regularly, have been appalling. I know some of you are wondering why I even - [Nothing Happens at School](https://scottishmum.com/2010/12/nothing-happens-at-school/) - The events of the school day always amuse me. In an average school day, nothing much seems to happen. I know this for certain, because my children tell me so, each and every day that they come home from school. You know how it goes. Mum "Did anything nice happen at school today."Child "Nothing much." - [Sweet Temptation - Who's Right - Teacher or Me? Help.....](https://scottishmum.com/2011/11/sweet-temptation-whos-right-teacher-or-me-help/) - We had a situation last week. I may be reading too much into it, but it really irritated me to the bone. On the way home from school, elder was very quiet and piped up that he had a letter than I had to sign for him to take back into school. I didn't - [Teethscapades](https://scottishmum.com/2011/12/teethscapades/) - The one thing that hasn't been boring this last month in our house has to be the Dentist. Dentists are usually one of those things that rarely make a dent in my life. As a young thing, I chose veneers and a crown in place of expensive jewellery for milestone birthdays as my own - [Top tips to Reduce our Environmental Footprint?](https://scottishmum.com/2012/03/top-tips-to-reduce-our-environmental-footprint/) - My children have forced me into learning a little about what all of this is about. Their school has an ongoing project and have a permanent ECO group which works to raise awareness and get children into the mindset of what it is all about and how we can all contribute to making it work. - [Undercover Elder Care on Panorama - Abuse of our Elderly - Rant Corner](https://scottishmum.com/2012/04/undercover-elder-care-on-panorama-abuse-of-our-elderly-rant-corner/) - I’ve just finished watching the Panorama programme about Elder Care, where a woman tells her story of how her mother with Alzheimers was abused by the very people who should have cared for her. Suspicious about bruises that had appeared on her mother’s body, she recorded video footage from a hidden camera which showed her - [Spaghetti Bolognese Scotty Brand Carrots](https://scottishmum.com/2012/05/spaghetti-bolognese-with-andrew-gordon-steak-mince-scotty-brand-carrots/) - My two favourite produce providers are the reason for the fabulously speedy wolfing down of Spaghetti Bolognese for our evening meal. It's amazing how much difference the taste of good meat and vegetables makes to the enjoyment of what we eat. The same Scotty Brand carrots used to make the Carrot and Orange Soup, added - [What would make Scotland the best place in the world to bring up children?](https://scottishmum.com/2012/10/what-would-make-scotland-the-best-place-in-the-world-to-bring-up-children/) - Becoming a parent was the unusual route for me. My kids are all fast approaching teenagehood, but I didn't give birth to them, and they don't have my genes. When we decided to keep the 3 little boys we had come to know, it was still hard to accept the amount of work that - [Are Scottish Bloggers Just Shy?](https://scottishmum.com/2013/02/are-scottish-bloggers-just-shy/) - Update 2024. Hahahahahahaha. I am laughing at myself with this post. I wrote it so long ago, that the whole online landscape has done a backflip, forwardflip and backflip again. Bloggers aren't young adults to middle age people any more and youngsters think they invented the world. I think I'll be chuckling to myself the - [Why Kids Should Get Down and Dirty](https://scottishmum.com/2013/11/why-kids-should-get-down-and-dirty/) - "I'm going round to Jacks to play tonight," my eldest enthuses before school. I listen and then tell him I'll still pick him up at the usual time after school and if he is still going over to play, I'll drop him off. "We're not allowed to play anymore," comes the sad face when I - [10 things I said my kids or I would never do..........](https://scottishmum.com/2014/05/10-things-i-said-id-my-kids-or-i-would-never-do/) - My kids are older now and after a conversation with @Liparazzi on Twitter last night, it got me thinking about the things I said I'd never do as a parent, but actually ended up doing...... I do have to laugh at how naive I was, right up until quite recently. I was determined that my - [In sickness and health, the bruised apple.](https://scottishmum.com/2014/05/in-sickness-and-health-the-bruised-apple/) - Could the Wicked Stepmother have saved herself a lot of heartache and just given Cinderella lots of bruised apples? Perhaps rotten fruit hasn't crossed your horizon yet, but it's the one that stood out for me at university many moons ago. I think I have written about it once before, but it merits a reminder - [Those scribbles on the walls really add up...](https://scottishmum.com/2014/12/those-scribbles-on-the-walls-really-add-up/) - Any parent understands the day to day struggle with keeping the house in order, and we’ve all walked into a room to be met with spillages, breakages and general curiosity-induced chaos, maybe some innocent puppy dog eyes too. It’s great to see the kids having fun, but all too often a play date becomes an - [Hand Made Jewellery Christmas Presents](https://scottishmum.com/2014/12/hand-made-jewellery-christmas-presents/) - Here they are. The personalised Christmas presents we made with the owners in mind. We hope they enjoy wearing them as much as we enjoyed making them. They're all either rhodium plated brass as a base for the pendants, with only a couple that are sterling silver. The colours are all made by cold enamelling, - [An Underactive Thyroid](https://scottishmum.com/2015/06/an-underactive-thyroid/) - You know how it goes. I'd get the kids up and ready for school, run the stress gauntlet of breakfast, get them moving, get my mum up and breakfasted, then myself ready for the day. By 9am, all I wanted to do some days, was put my head back down and sleep for hours. I - [Halloween Is Coming](https://scottishmum.com/2015/10/halloween-is-coming/) - This often fills my heart with dread. Standing out in the freezing cold for ages, while little cherubs run amok through the streets, knocking on doors and telling jokes to get sweeties. My middle boy is now a teen. He's the same height as me, and takes a size 8 shoe already. He STILL wants - [Bank Accounts & Scary Debit Cards for Tweens and Teens](https://scottishmum.com/2015/12/bank-accounts-scary-debit-cards-for-tweens-and-teens/) - I spent a long while, looking for bank accounts for my boys recently. They've had savings accounts for years, but I hadn't realised that kids as young as 11, can have their own debit cards. In my head, I had that little milestone filed away for 16+. I got their new accounts with the RBS, - [Losing a bunch of weight.](https://scottishmum.com/2016/07/losing-a-bunch-of-weight/) - It's no secret to my readers that I've lost a bunch of weight recently, and I'd still like to lose around a stone more, but I won't worry too much about that. I'm still heavier than where I started at thebeginning of all this blubbery inflation, but I fit into UK Next 8 and 10 - [LVL Enhance - LVL Lashes - The Lash Lift](https://scottishmum.com/2016/12/lvl-enhance-the-lash-lift/) - Anyone who knows me, knows my eyelashes have always grown to hate me. Awful, rotten straight things they are. I've spent years, and pounds on ways to get them to curl, even slightly, and then, when I got glasses, the blooming things bashed off my lenses. I must have had awful straight lashed ancestors, with - [Where I've Been - Hospital and Dementia](https://scottishmum.com/2017/02/where-ive-been-hospital-and-dementia/) - Apologies to everyone who expects regular posts from me. It's been a bit of a whirlwind week or two, starting with my mother falling and breaking her hip. As a hospital patient, she hasn't had the best time, and I find how they're treated quite cruel, but I'm just the person who looks after her - [All I Want To Do Is Sleep.....](https://scottishmum.com/2018/01/all-i-want-to-do-is-sleep/) - Yes, really. All I want to do is sleep. This has been me for the last few weeks. As soon as it gets dark, my brain seems to think it's time to climb that wooden hill. It's not something I've been terribly bothered by for a long time, but one of my boys has. From - [Fun With My First 3D Pen Starter Kit - Review](https://scottishmum.com/2024/07/fun-with-my-first-3d-pen-starter-kit-review/) - I haven't done reviews for a while, but this really did stand out as a fabulous addition to any child and their inquisitiveness, while allowing them to play safely with child friendly tech. This kit went to my sons girlfriends family and will hopefully find itself used for many hours of playtime. I believe it - [So Slime Go Gooey Snails Slime Race Set](https://scottishmum.com/2024/08/so-slime-go-gooey-snails-slime-race-set/) - Toy Review What Is The So Slime Go Gooey Snails Slime Race Set? The beauty of the So Slime Go Gooey Snails Slime Race Set is that it gives the kids an activity to carry out while playing with their slime. The problem with most slime gifts, is that it's usually given as just the - [Reviewing the Style 4 Ever Nail Art Gel Studio Set with REAL UV Lamp](https://scottishmum.com/2024/10/style-4-ever-nail-art-gel-studio-set-with-real-uv-lamp/) - What Is The Style 4 Ever Nail Art Set? Review Post The Style 4 Ever Nail Art Gel Studio allows little ones to make fabulous and stunning designs at home, safely. The set has a real UV lamp that dries the nails in just one short minute, allowing the set to feel professional and grown - [Review - How To Build Your Own Plane Launcher Kit](https://scottishmum.com/2024/11/review-how-to-build-your-own-plane-launcher-kit/) - What Is The Build Your Own Plane Launcher Kit The Build Your Own Plane Launcher Kit is a 47-piece kit contains everything you need to slot together and build this lovely wee paper plane launcher. The plane launcher kit from build your own kits is just one of their kids available to buy. Follow the - [Stress Free Afternoon with the Diamond Art Light LED Case](https://scottishmum.com/2024/10/stress-free-afternoon-with-the-diamond-art-light-led-case/) - Review Post The Style 4 Ever Diamond Art Light LED Case set comes with a phenomenal amount of additions to the kit. It's not just a case, and probably could have focussed more on what's all in box. There is loads, including pens, stickers, templates to create art, lots of different coloured diamond pieces and - [Review: So Slime Sensations Sugary Crush Street Food](https://scottishmum.com/2025/10/review-so-slime-sensations-sugary-crush-street-food/) - What Is The So Slime Sensations Sugary Crush Street Food Set? Canal Toys says “Create tasty-looking street food with So Slime Streetfood Crush.Get ready for an irresistible ASMR experience with the So Slime Streetfood Crush! Choose from three fun street food styles—Pizza, Tacos, or Hamburger—and combine colourful compounds and textures to build your own delicious-looking - [Review: So Sensory Light Up Unicorn World](https://scottishmum.com/2025/08/review-so-sensory-light-up-unicorn-world/) - What Is The So Sensory Light Up Unicorn World? Made by Canal Toys. "Create your own mini world with the So Sensory Light-Up Unicorn World DIY! Have hours of fun creating your dream world with fun characters and compounds. Decorate the world with lights, clay, sand and foam then add in characters and decorations to - [Review: Fun With the Style 4 Ever Diamond Art Lamp Set](https://scottishmum.com/2025/02/review-fun-with-the-style-4-ever-diamond-art-lamp-set/) - What Is The Style 4 Ever Diamond Art Lamp Set? Have hours of fun with this light-up Diamond Art Lamp. Choose from a unicorn or butterfly and decorate with 1300+ colourful diamonds. Simply peel the characters film off and decorate the acrylic shapes with the diamond painting technique by placing the diamonds one by one. - [Review: So Slime Yummy Twist & Slime Mixer Set](https://scottishmum.com/2025/10/review-so-slime-yummy-twist-slime-mixer-set/) - What Is The So Slime Yummy Twist & Slime Mixer Set? Canal Toys says "Whip up super slimy desert-inspired creations! The So Slime Yummy Twist & Slime Mixer features a crank-operated manual stand mixer, playful kitchen ingredient-style packaging, and 3 fun recipe cards to follow, so you can create sensory slime styled like Lemon Pie, - [Review: Fun With Soft and Squishy Airbrush Plush Hair'iffic Salon Set](https://scottishmum.com/2025/07/review-fun-with-soft-and-squishy-airbrush-plush-hairiffic-salon-set/) - What Is The Airbrush Plush Hair'iffic Salon Set? This set is really cute. The plushy is soft, squidgy and cuddly. Absolutely perfect size for little hands. Treat your adorable Airbrush Plush to a makeover at the Airbrush Plush Hair'iffic Salon Set! It's the ultimate hair play experience for kids who love to style and decorate. - [Review: Art Lab Fluffy Paint Studio Set](https://scottishmum.com/2025/10/review-art-lab-fluffy-paint-studio-set/) - What Is The Art Lab Fluffy Paint Set? Canal Toys says "Fabulous for creating textured art with 3D effects. Create amazing 3D textured art with fluffy paint! The Art Lab Fluffy Paint Studio gives you everything you need to design up to 10 unique posters in a compact studio, including 10 poster templates and 10 - [Review: Doodle Copy Draw and Print from Canal Toys](https://scottishmum.com/2025/12/review-doodle-copy-draw-and-print-from-canal-toys/) - What Is The Doodle Copy from Canal Toys Canal Toys says “ Doodle Copy Draw & Print Draw, copy, print and colour—again and again. The Doodle Copy Draw & Print is the first creative doodle pad where kids can easily design their own art and watch it print out—just like magic! Use the unique drawing - [Style 4 Ever Magic Clay Jewellery Maker](https://scottishmum.com/2025/12/style-4-ever-magic-clay-jewellery-maker/) - What Is The Style 4 Ever Magic Clay Jewellery Maker? Canal Toys says "Create your own trendy rings, bracelets, pendants and more with the Style 4 Ever Magic Clay Jewellery Maker!This special quick-curing clay bakes in under 3 minutes using the kid-safe baking oven. Mix colours, shape your designs with the roller and tools, then - [Review: So Slime Mini Garden](https://scottishmum.com/2026/03/review-so-slime-mini-garden/) - What Is The So Style Slime Mini Garden Canal Toys says Mix, stretch and decorate colourful scented slimes in two different textures for double the sensory fun. Create and customise your own mini slime garden by storing each slime in six adorable flowerpots. Add charms, decorations and stickers to personalise every design and make each - [Studio Creator: Creator Walkie-Talkies](https://scottishmum.com/2026/03/studio-creator-creator-walkie-talkies/) - What Is The Studio Creator: Walkie-Talkie Kit Canal Toys says Share your adventures indoors and outdoors with these video walkie talkies! Call your friend in video and talk from afar, while adding fun filters and voice effects! An audio call is also possible, with a range up to 3km! With rechargeable battery. In The Box - [Photo Creator: Digital Waterproof Camera](https://scottishmum.com/2026/04/photo-creator-digital-waterproof-camera/) - What Is the photo creator digital waterproof camera? Canal Toys says Perfect for adventure seekers! Get ready for underwater escapades with this super cool, 12 MP waterproof camera. It’s perfect for capturing all the magic of the deep, up to 3 meters deep!With its sleek and easy-to-grip design, this camera is made for little hands - [Review: Canal Toys Airbrush Art Kawaii Poster Kit](https://scottishmum.com/2026/04/review-canal-toys-airbrush-art-kawaii-poster-kit/) - What Is the Airbrush Art Kawaii Poster Kit? Canal Toys says Creative Kids Can Design Their Own Cute Kawaii Art with the Airbrush Art Kawaii Poster Kit Young artists can bring colourful characters to life with the Airbrush Art Kawaii Poster Kit, a fun and imaginative craft activity that lets children create vibrant poster art using - [Review: Creamy Deco Baby Series 1](https://scottishmum.com/2026/05/review-creamy-deco-baby-series-1/) - What Is the Creamy Deco Baby Series? Canal Toys says Creamy Deco Collectible Custom Babies: A Creative, Screen-Free Activity Parents Can Feel Good About If you’re looking for a fun, hands-on activity that encourages creativity away from screens, Creamy Deco Collectible Custom Babies offer a fresh take on collectible play that children can truly make - [Review: DIY Squishy Factory - Squish Squish](https://scottishmum.com/2026/04/review-diy-squishy-factory-squish-squish/) - What Is the Squish Squish DIY Squishy Factory? Canal Toys says Make your own soft, colourful squishies with the DIY Squishy Factory. Simply pour the two gels into the mixer, add your favourite colours and fill the mould. After it’s dried, add sparkly decorations to create your unique squishy. Place it into the bag and - [Review: Art Lab Watercolour Case](https://scottishmum.com/2026/05/review-art-lab-watercolour-case/) - What Is the Art Lab Watercolour Case? Canal Toys says The Watercolour Case includes everything needed to create detailed artwork in one compact, easy-to-use set. With 6 watercolour paints, 12 paper sheets and a range of creative tools, it’s designed to help explore different techniques and build confidence with painting. The case also works as - [myFirst Camera 50 - AI Camera for Kids](https://scottishmum.com/2026/05/myfirst-camera-50-ai-camera-for-kids/) - What Is the AI Camera for Kids? myFirst Designed specifically for young minds aged 5-12, Camera 50 makes it easier than ever for children to transform everyday moments into creative masterpieces, all with the help of AI. The inclusion of myDiary and our myFirst Circle app fosters good mental health practices from an early age - [Review: Pad Creator Instant Print Tablet](https://scottishmum.com/2026/06/review-pad-creator-instant-print-tablet/) - What is the Pad Creator Instant Print Tablet ? Canal Toys says: The Pad Creator Instant Print Tablet is more than a tablet—it’s a complete creative studio. With six inspiring modes, kids can take 5MP photos, record HD videos, draw, add stickers, insert text, images and design cards or collages using a wide range of - [Review: Secret Creator Secret Video Journal](https://scottishmum.com/2026/06/review-secret-creator-secret-video-journal/) - What is the Secret Creator Secret Video Journal? Canal Toys says: A first-of-its-kind private video diary, the Secret Creator allows kids to safely record and express themselves in a fun and secure way. With fingerprint unlock technology, entries remain completely private, while a 4” screen, LED mood lighting and creative filters bring each story to life. - [Why active outdoor play fits perfectly with Montessori parenting](https://scottishmum.com/2026/06/why-active-outdoor-play-fits-perfectly-with-montessori-parenting/) - Children learning through hands-on exploration inside a Montessori classroom is an image many parents know well. But what happens to those same principles when the peers, rulers and beads stay put and the world beyond beckons instead? Montessori parenting is made for the outdoors. While classrooms spotlight orderly shelves and deliberate activities, the outdoor world - [What you NEED to know about Margaret, the Monofilament Wig by JB Extension in Light Copper](https://scottishmum.com/2026/04/what-you-need-to-know-about-margaret-the-monofilament-wig-by-jb-extension-in-light-copper/) - This is my wee video review and introduction to the gorgeous fully hand tied monofilament top wig from JB Extension. Margaret is absolutely beautiful. Within half an hour of combing her out, setting my part and adding a little height, I am pleased as punch to be able to wear this wig. I think this - [Weekend Self Care Routines That Help Stressed Students Feel Human Again](https://scottishmum.com/2026/04/weekend-self-care-routines-that-help-stressed-students-feel-human-again/) - Student life can feel like living inside a browser with fifty tabs open. One tab is an essay, another is a group project, another is your part-time job, and somewhere in the background, your brain is still replaying that awkward thing you said on Tuesday. When stress builds up for days, or even weeks, you - [Teens planning healthy porridge breakfasts for busy mornings.](https://scottishmum.com/2026/04/teens-planning-healthy-porridge-breakfasts-for-busy-mornings/) - Busy mornings can feel like a race. The alarm rings, school starts soon, bags are half-packed, and breakfast often becomes an afterthought. For many teens, that means grabbing a sugary snack, skipping breakfast completely, or eating something that does not keep them full for long. But what if breakfast could be fast, healthy, and comforting - [A Parent’s Quick Guide to Brake Repair and Car Safety](https://scottishmum.com/2026/03/a-parents-quick-guide-to-brake-repair-and-car-safety/) - The primary focus of car travel with children rests on ensuring their safety. A vehicle needs to function properly during school runs, weekend outings, and family road trips. The braking system stands as one of the essential elements that maintains vehicle safety. Parents who understand brake repair fundamentals can use their knowledge to maintain vehicle - [Simba Original Hybrid Mattress & Why We Like It](https://scottishmum.com/2026/02/simba-original-hybrid-mattress-why-we-like-it/) - The lovely people at Simba sent us a mattress to review. One of the grown up youngsters decided it would be a good fit, and delivery of the double hybrid mattress came swiftly. The box is a bit deceptive size wise, but it is a very heavy box, so be careful when attempting to move - [How to Wash Your Hoka Trainers in the Washing Machine](https://scottishmum.com/2026/01/how-to-wash-your-hoka-trainers-in-the-washing-machine/) - I know Hoka recommends not to wash them in the machine, but running shoes and walking trainers that have seen a few hundred miles end up looking fairly bashed, mucky and smelly. They get to a point where a scrub with a brush just isn't enough. By this point, my walking or running shoes still - [The Complete Guide to Nasal Saline for Infants: Gentle Relief for Little Noses](https://scottishmum.com/2025/11/the-complete-guide-to-nasal-saline-for-infants-gentle-relief-for-little-noses/) - Every parent is well aware of the uneasy feeling that comes every time their baby soundscongested or sick. Since most babies only breathes through their noses, even the mildstuffiness can make it difficult for them to eat, sleep or rest. This is why many caregivers' go-tosolution is nasal saline infant drops. It's a safe, gentle - [Top 5 Benefits of Upgrading to Genuine Alloy Wheels Before Your Next Holiday Road Trip ](https://scottishmum.com/2025/11/top-5-benefits-of-upgrading-to-genuine-alloy-wheels-before-your-next-holiday-road-trip/) - Preparing for a holiday road trip is always exciting, but making sure your vehicle is ready for the journey is just as important as planning your destination. One upgrade that can greatly improve both safety and driving enjoyment is investing in genuine alloy wheels. They not only make your car look better, but they also provide several - [Race For Life 2016 and Me](https://scottishmum.com/2016/04/race-for-life-2016-and-me/) - In my eyes, the goal of Race for Life, is to bring women together and raise sponsorship online. I don't have a big circle of real life friends, but you know what, every little thing I can do to help, is a step closer to someone in the future being cancer free. I don't have - [Dehumidifiers Simplified. 10 Reasons to Use a Dehumidifier](https://scottishmum.com/2023/12/dehumidifiers-simplified-10-reasons-to-use-a-dehumidifier/) - Dehumidifiers seem to be everywhere in the news, with few people really understanding what they are for and why they would use them. Until a couple of years ago, I only used one when my business premises back wall got wet during winter, or when I'd painted walls and wanted them dry quickly. The increase - [I cut my expensive Hoka Clifton 2 running shoes - yes I did!](https://scottishmum.com/2016/06/i-cut-my-expensive-hoka-clifton-2-running-shoes-yes-i-did/) - Before I say any more, this isn't sponsored. I bought and paid for my Hoka's, and yes, I cut them...... I know, nuts right? Especially considering they cost me £100. To see the slit when I'm wearing them, you have to know it's there. If you look closely in this pic, you can see it on - [Training for Your First 5K: Small Steps That Lead to Big Wins](https://scottishmum.com/2025/10/training-for-your-first-5k-small-steps-that-lead-to-big-wins/) - Getting ready to run your first 5K can feel a bit overwhelming. If you've never done it before, you might be wondering where to start. But don't worry, running a 5K is an achievable goal even for fitness beginners. Just like any journey, this too is best started with small steps. So tie up your - [20 inch Alloy Wheels on a Family Budget: How to Add Comfort & Style Without Breaking the Bank](https://scottishmum.com/2025/09/20-inch-alloy-wheels-on-a-family-budget-how-to-add-comfort-style-without-breaking-the-bank/) - For many families in the UK, a car is not just a mode of transport from point A to point B. It is the lifeline that is used for school runs, visits to the supermarket and family adventures further afield. That’s why it’s essential to keep your car in top condition with the right upgrades - [Chef Recipe: Mango & Candied Chili Tarte Tatin](https://scottishmum.com/2025/09/chef-recipe-mango-candied-chili-tarte-tatin/) - Thanks to Paule Beke for allowing me to post this lovely recipe. Introduction to Mango & Candied Chili Tarte Tatin Credit:Paule Beke, Chef at Douceurs D’ivoire This is a bold and spicy twist on the classic French dessert. I love tart tatin and I love mangoes. So, I have combined the best of both worlds, - [Tailored dental solutions for families in Glasgow.](https://scottishmum.com/2025/09/tailored-dental-solutions-for-families-in-glasgow/) - Families in Glasgow require dental care that caters to their unique needs. By understanding the specific challenges faced by parents and teenagers, personalised treatment plans can be developed. Tailored dental solutions ensure optimal oral health for every family member. Personalised dental care is crucial for families seeking effective solutions for oral health challenges. Understanding the - [Enhancing physical growth through engaging home activities](https://scottishmum.com/2025/07/enhancing-physical-growth-through-engaging-home-activities/) - Children's physical development is crucial for their overall well-being and future success. Engaging in activities that develop gross motor skills helps improve balance, coordination, and strength. Incorporating dynamic play elements at home can significantly contribute to a child's growth and exploration. The early years of a child’s life are marked by rapid physical development, making - [6 Easy to Implement Fashion Tips for Busy Moms](https://scottishmum.com/2019/02/6-easy-to-implement-fashion-tips-for-busy-moms/) - Collaborative Post As a mom, you have a lot of responsibility. Your little ones are your life and they rely on you 24/7. Most of the time, you’re so focused on doing what’s best for them that you forget about looking after yourself. In this day and age, most moms go above and beyond trying - [Finding Your Glow Again During Motherhood](https://scottishmum.com/2025/06/finding-your-glow-again-during-motherhood/) - Motherhood is a deeply beautiful yet challenging journey. The early days are often defined by sleepless nights, hormonal changes, and an emotional roller coaster ride that can leave you feeling lost and exhausted. Yet, amidst the chaos and daily grind, there's an opportunity for every new mum to find her glow again. Rediscovering your glow - [Postpartum Body Image Isn’t Just a Mums Issue — What About Dads?](https://scottishmum.com/2025/05/postpartum-body-image-isnt-just-a-mums-issue-what-about-dads/) - Though a lot of focus is placed on the mother's postpartum recovery, the father has his body changes after having a baby. Parenting has an emotional and physical cost on both parties involved. Postpartum time is usually described as mothers ' time and rightfully so—their bodies undergo a vast transformation. However, many fathers are also - [Unexpected Home Emergencies: How to Stay Calm for the Kids](https://scottishmum.com/2025/05/unexpected-home-emergencies-how-to-stay-calm-for-the-kids/) - Emergencies at home are never planned, and when you have kids in the mix, it can feel even more overwhelming. Whether it’s a burst pipe, a power outage, or something as simple as a broken appliance, how you respond in the moment can make all the difference. Staying calm not only helps you think clearly - [Tata fine lines & wrinkles.... Not sad to see some of you go.....](https://scottishmum.com/2016/10/tata-fine-lines-wrinkles-not-sad-to-see-some-of-you-go/) - One of the lovely things about blogging, is the opportunity to do things I would never have thought of beforehand. Yes, I'm getting to the age where old leather and hide boots has been more apt to describe the surface of my face, but I've done not too badly in the grand old scheme of - [Are you drinking enough water to be healthy and hydrated?](https://scottishmum.com/2016/10/are-you-drinking-enough-water-to-be-healthy-and-hydrated/) - Highland Spring is on a mission to encourage healthy hydration. Because when you're 100% hydrated, you're much more likely to be on top of your game – mentally, physically and emotionally. As a fairly newish runner, who's only been pounding the streets and treadmill since January this year, I've been drinking more and more water as - [Review: Wentworth Wooden Puzzles](https://scottishmum.com/2016/10/review-wentworth-wooden-puzzles/) - My middle boy quite likes a puzzle or two, and although he struggles with much of life, sitting with someone to do a jigsaw is very satisfying for him, when it's one he can cope with. For my review, I chose a 50 piece puzzle rather than a larger one. It' one he is likely - [Preview Review: The Crackin Egg Co](https://scottishmum.com/2015/05/preview-review-the-crackin-egg-co/) - They think eggs rule, and they wouldn't be far wrong. The Crackin Egg Co have taken the idea of hard boiling eggs and added a protective coating to lock in the goodness, and they're ready to eat. We tested the sour cream and chive and the salt and black pepper eggs, that are high in - [Review: Wicked On Tour - Aberdeen until 30th May 2015 #wickedontour #wickeduk #HMT](https://scottishmum.com/2015/05/review-wicked-on-tour-aberdeen-until-30th-may-2015-wickedontour-wickeduk-hmt/) - When our family rocked up to watch the Wicked musical at His Majesty's Theatre (HMT) in Aberdeen, I wondered if I was the only person in the world who had no idea what would happen. Voices in the lounge chatted over the bits they liked best and who their favourite characters were. One lady had - [Giveaway & Competition - Hot Stone Massage in Aberdeen, Worth £70](https://scottishmum.com/2017/07/giveaway-competition-hot-stone-massage-in-aberdeen-worth-70-ends-31-august-2017/) - Closes 31st August 2017, at midnight. Who isn't under some kind of stress in today's fast moving life, where children, elders, work, pets, e-mails and social media place more and more need to fit into a certain slot, no matter how much it impacts on our lives! It's not surprising that people seek out massage - [The 4GEE Community Cinema Club](https://scottishmum.com/2017/08/the-4gee-community-cinema-club/) - We got the chance to give this a try. It was a bit of a no brainer, as it involved gadgets and movies, which are the two biggest hobbies of almost all the Scottish Mum family. I think most of us have heard of EE these days, and they launched a new Community Cinema Club - [Cameras in CARE are BADLY needed.](https://scottishmum.com/2019/12/cameras-in-care-are-badly-needed/) - Hi all. Both my mum and dad passed away recently. I'm not looking for sympathy with this post, but I do want to highlight an awareness of issues that most people simply don't know about. Campaign for CCTV in Care One man, who has a relative who suffered abuse in care, has taken it further, - [Cargo Pants: The Utility Fashion Trend You Need for All Seasons](https://scottishmum.com/2024/10/cargo-pants-the-utility-fashion-trend-you-need-for-all-seasons/) - In the ever-evolving world of fashion, certain trends transcend the fleeting nature of seasonal styles, offering both functionality and aesthetic appeal. Cargo pants, once relegated to the utilitarian wardrobes of military personnel and outdoor enthusiasts, have firmly established themselves as a staple in modern fashion. Emphasizing practicality without sacrificing style, cargo pants are the utility - [45 Days & 13 People to Craft A Tweet](https://scottishmum.com/2014/05/45-days-13-people-to-craft-a-tweet/) - At first, I thought this article was actually a wind up. Let's take the short version. The brand seems to have 180 followers as of today, but around 100 at the time of the tweet. It appears that it took 45 days to craft a single tweet. The article states: It can take a team - [Aeno KS1S Smart Kitchen Scales Make Food Tracking Simple](https://scottishmum.com/2025/04/review-aeno-ks1s-smart-kitchen-scales/) - These little scales are really handy in the kitchen. I had a blip with my smartphone login and took me a couple of days to get access back to my account and be able to download new apps. That was a little setback, but all good now. App Set Up Download the AENO app and - [Frozen Veg Versus Fresh Veg - Would you use frozen fruit and vegetables?](https://scottishmum.com/2015/02/frozen-veg-versus-fresh-veg-would-you-use-frozen-fruit-and-vegetables/) - If you believe the Daily Mail, the consensus is that frozen food is better than fresh food - and that includes frozen vegetables and fruit. Using frozen ingredients in recipes isn't always popular though, and I do often wonder how many of us actually use them. Coming from a family who always ate from fresh, - [Farflung Family-Friendly Holidays](https://scottishmum.com/2025/03/farflung-family-friendly-holidays/) - Let's face it – once tiny humans enter your life, those carefree backpacking dreamsoften get swapped for all-inclusives with kiddie pools. But who says family holidayshave to mean sacrificing adventure? These far-flung destinations prove you canhave your exotic cake and eat it too. But before you jet off to these truly off-the-beaten-path destinations, make sure - [Enhancing Your Lifestyle Through Garden Renovations. How To.](https://scottishmum.com/2025/03/enhancing-your-lifestyle-through-garden-renovations-how-to/) - A well-planned garden is more than a yard in front of your home—it is a home addition that can enhance your way of living in numerous ways. Do you want a peaceful retreat, a spot for entertaining friends, or a functional outdoor workspace? Garden remodelling can transform your surroundings and make them become something magical. - [Smart Shopping: How to Find the Perfect Used Car for Your Family](https://scottishmum.com/2024/04/smart-shopping-how-to-find-the-perfect-used-car-for-your-family/) - Getting your kids around from the Brighton seafront to school to activities can be challenging. Popping to the shop for those last minutes supplies needed for cake and bake sales, unexpected dress up daysand other similar appeals which children love to let us know about at the last moment, meansthat having a car is a - [How to Make Eco-Friendly Choices as a Busy Mum (Without the Extra Hassle!)](https://scottishmum.com/2025/03/how-to-make-eco-friendly-choices-as-a-busy-mum-without-the-extra-hassle/) - The growing threat of climate change has prompted a worldwide shift towards energy efficiency and sustainability, not forgetting the importance of personal accountability. From global corporations to local households, everyone has a part to play in this universal mission for ecological preservation. For many busy mums out there, this green movement might seem daunting amidst - [Is taking your children on holiday during term time acceptable?](https://scottishmum.com/2016/05/is-taking-your-children-on-holiday-during-term-time-acceptable/) - Sponsored Guest Post, by Michael Todt of Lending Works It’s the subject of hot debate at the moment – should parents be allowed to take their children on holiday during term time? Given the prohibitive costs of travel and accommodation, there will no doubt be many families weighing up the cost of the £60 statutory - [How Mums Can Recharge and Find Joy in Their Free Time](https://scottishmum.com/2025/01/how-mums-can-recharge-and-find-joy-in-their-free-time/) - Motherhood is a full-time role that never truly clocks out. Between balancing work, childcare, and household responsibilities, many mums find their own needs taking a backseat. Yet, finding moments of free time—and using them intentionally—can be transformative. Research from the Pew Research Center shows that 74% of mothers report feeling stressed about managing multiple responsibilities. - [Living With Endometriosis On A Day To Day Basis](https://scottishmum.com/2013/10/living-with-endometriosis-on-a-day-to-day-basis/) - Living with a chronic disease means that we have to take control of how we live with it daily. Endometriosis is a condition that affects up to 10% of the female population and can cause chronic pain, infertility and heavy periods. Endometriosis is a very personal journey. Life with endometriosis, which is a chronic (long-term) - [Haddock & Mange Tout Fish Pie Recipe](https://scottishmum.com/2013/05/haddock-mange-tout-fish-pie-with-healthy-happy-hearts/) - Haddock is a pretty reliable and easy fish to work with. It would have been the dish that my grandparents and their parents mostly lived on as they grew up. As versatile as it is, a fish pie is really an easy option to make with it. I swithered between a fish pie and fishcakes, - [The Duchess of Cambridge Topless Photos. Why I think it's more serious than it seems.](https://scottishmum.com/2012/09/the-duchess-of-cambridge-topless-photos-why-i-think-its-more-serious-than-it-seems/) - © Morfeo86ts | Dreamstime.com Lounging in a private home, in a secluded location, you'd think it was pretty safe to top up your tan in France, and make sure there are no unsightly bikini lines. Looking around on our own holidays, we tend to worry if our bums look bigger than the people sitting in - [Easy and Fast Halloween Food Ideas for Busy Mums](https://scottishmum.com/2024/10/easy-and-fast-halloween-food-ideas-for-busy-mums/) - Wondering what to give our kids for Halloween and Festive food can be a difficult place to be. There is so much choice, but if you are like me and need pictoral inspiration, here are some lovely recipes that might help you pop a plan in place for your own celebrations. History of Halloween The - [Giveaway: Win one of the toughest cables on earth, worth £25. Ends 10 Feb 16](https://scottishmum.com/2016/01/giveaway-win-one-of-the-toughest-cables-on-earth-worth-25-ends-10-feb-16/) - I wrote about how tough the Titan Steel charging cable is, a few days ago. I've now got one to give away to a lucky reader of mine. The winner can choose between a MicroUSB cable or one that works with Apple products. The Titan (from the Fuse Chicken range) is very strong and comes - [Getting Organised: How to Get to School on Time](https://scottishmum.com/2014/03/getting-organised-how-to-get-to-school-on-time/) - Sponsored Guest Post For many parents, the weekday mornings are an absolute nightmare. Most days, being able to get to school on time is nothing short of a miracle, especially when there’s more than one child to worry about. Some parents may look at the laidback ones wondering ‘how do they do it?’ while others will be so - [5 Myths of Drinking Alcohol](https://scottishmum.com/2013/10/5-myths-of-drinking-alcohol/) - Because I post so often about Foetal Alcohol Syndrome, people seem to think I am anti-alcohol all the time which simply isn't true. Anyone who wants to knock their livers into insensibility by drinking more than the average hippo could put away in a year only had themselves to blame if they're not affecting anyone - [Drinking When Pregnant: Woman refused a glass of wine by barman.](https://scottishmum.com/2013/10/drinking-when-pregnant-woman-refused-a-glass-of-wine-by-barman/) - Defying my ability to understand human nature, I am in the court of the poor barman who has probably been hauled over the coals for taking a stand and refusing to serve an obviously pregnant woman with a glass of wine. It also defies my belief that a heavily pregnant woman would want to go - [Creative and Unique Gifts for Daughters, Nieces, and Special Girls in Your Life](https://scottishmum.com/2024/12/creative-and-unique-gifts-for-daughters-nieces-and-special-girls-in-your-life/) - If you've ever spent time pondering over the ideal presents for the special girls in your life, then you're not alone. This process, challenging as it might be, speaks to our shared aspirations of finding the perfect gifts, ones that would be cherished and adored by your daughters, nieces, or other exceptional young ones in - [Skoog 2: Making Sweet Melodies](https://scottishmum.com/2016/09/review-skoog-2-making-sweet-melodies-for-the-budding-musician-in-all-of-us/) - For the budding musician in all of us. Imagine being a child, and then imagine being a child, or an adult, who can never learn to play their own music.... Then imagine being a child or an adult who not only can't learn to play their own music, but also doesn't have the manual dexterity - [Review: Abakus Dried Jujube Fruit (Red Dates)](https://scottishmum.com/2016/09/review-abakus-dried-jujube-fruit-red-dates/) - I don't choose to try things, unless I know my kidlets or I will actually use them, so two items came top of my list recently, one of them being the jujube fruit I'm a date snob, in that the only ones I like are Medjool dates, and I eat loads of them in a - [Race for Life Training - A few weeks to go....](https://scottishmum.com/2016/05/race-for-life-training-a-few-weeks-to-go/) - Well, what can I say.... I'm pretty rubbish at this running thing. I'm doing it, but almost everyone else I see, seems to have got it licked, whereas I just plod along, step after step until I've had it. The treadmill, I can do, but I'm struggling getting above 5 + k outside. I get - [Do you want to enjoy camping or caravanning this summer? Make sure you learn about the dangers of carbon monoxide!](https://scottishmum.com/2024/07/do-you-want-to-enjoy-camping-or-caravanning-this-summer-make-sure-you-learn-about-the-dangers-of-carbon-monoxide/) - In the Scottish Mum house, we have a couple of butane gas heaters, so we're very familiar with carbon monoxide. We also have carbon monoxide alarms in several rooms, along with one between the kitchen gas hob and the boiler. As previous campers, we are also used to propane gas, and use it for our - [Is it fair to call any kids animals?](https://scottishmum.com/2014/02/is-it-fair-to-call-any-kids-animals/) - This has been opened up by a Tweet. This is what KT Hopkins actually said on Twitter. Mums hearts are broken by school bullies. Yet schools continue to support these animals and ignore those keen to learn. Let me at them. The Telegraph had said: Michael Gove: teachers should punish children with litter duty, lines - [I have Tinnitus. What is it?](https://scottishmum.com/2015/02/i-have-tinnitus-what-is-it/) - I have what I guess is likely to be a milder form of Tinnitus, but it's still there all the time. For every second of every day, it keeps me company through thick and thin. My tinnitus is like that of 1 minute 44 on the video below, with just a higher pitch. It used - [Hypermobility Syndrome (HMS) / or Wibbly Wobbly Joints As We Know It](https://scottishmum.com/2013/09/hypermobility-syndrome-hms-or-wibbly-wobbly-joints-as-we-know-it/) - Two of my boys have hypermobile joints. You know the ones that can turn their elbows inside out, or stick out their shoulder blades at completely stomach churning angles. One of mine can do that. Littlest can turn his feet to direct opposites of each other. In simple terms, hypermobility is the ability to move - [Featured Guest Post: 7 Steps to Keep Your Child Safe Online](https://scottishmum.com/2013/06/featured-guest-post-7-steps-to-keep-your-child-safe-online/) - The internet is a wonderful way for our children to learn and play. But as every parent knows, it can be a dangerous place too. Even if you lock your security settings as tightly as possible, you can still download viruses and be targeted by spammers and scams. There’s an even riskier human element to - [#teamhonk #goodwork #Ghana #comicrelief](https://scottishmum.com/2013/02/teamhonk-goodwork-ghana-children-in-need-cin/) - Red Nose Day began on the 5th Feb, 25 years ago. To mark the anniversary, Comic Relief wanted to show the progress in Africa and the difference that money raised has made, both here and in Africa. To raise the awareness, 3 bloggers from our community are visiting four projects in Ghana on the 4th - [Project 366 Day 8/365 – My fabulous lens cup.](https://scottishmum.com/2012/06/project-366-day-8365-my-fabulous-lens-cup/) - This is the fabulous lens cup that I got for my birthday. Ok, so it's more of a Canon girls bag than a Nikon, but it really is quite cool. The box it comes with is more realistic than the lens and without the coffee in it. The man was convinced that someone has sent - [Feel Good Easy & Speedy Sausage & Idahoan Mash Pie Recipe](https://scottishmum.com/2024/11/feel-good-easy-speedy-sausage-idahoan-mash-pie-recipe/) - I'm actually ok with quick ways to make tasty meals. Not everything needs to be fresh cooked from scratch to be nutritious or healthy. I absolutely plan to have this as a Christmas week recipe this year . I think we'll all completely enjoy it. This is a quick recipe to make a full meal - [How Leasing a Car Helps Families Stay on Budget While Driving in Style](https://scottishmum.com/2024/10/how-leasing-a-car-helps-families-stay-on-budget-while-driving-in-style/) - Having access to a reliable and stylish vehicle is essential for many families. The decision to buy or lease a car is significant, particularly for those keen on maintaining financial stability. Increasingly, families across the UK are choosing to lease their vehicles. Leasing offers numerous advantages, allowing families to enjoy the benefits of driving in - [Are you a carer? It's Carers Week 10th - 16th June 2019](https://scottishmum.com/2019/06/are-you-a-carer-its-carers-week-10th-16th-june-2019/) - The one thing that's hit home very much for me recently, is just how many unofficial carers there are out in the community, doing their bit, day by day, not really realising they are actually carers. You know the ones, the people who pop in past an elderly or disabled neighbour and bring home some - [Stress-Free MOT: How Mums Can Save Time and Money](https://scottishmum.com/2024/10/stress-free-mot-how-mums-can-save-time-and-money/) - Mum's life is busy and non-stop, with activities, school runs, grocery shopping and errands spreading out to fill up every spare moment from the moment you open your eyes until you climb back into bed at the end of the day, often making notes and to-do lists for the next day as you do so. - [Why Staying In Is the New Going Out: How to Create the Perfect PJ Night](https://scottishmum.com/2024/10/why-staying-in-is-the-new-going-out-how-to-create-the-perfect-pj-night/) - More than just a pandemic trend, staying in has become synonymous with self-care and relaxation. As the hustle and bustle of modern life continues to demand our attention, more people are discovering they can derive immense joy from a quiet night at home. Dressing down instead of dressing up and trading crowded social scenes for - [Showing off kids creativity in the home.](https://scottishmum.com/2015/10/showing-off-kids-creativity-in-the-home/) - Five interesting and clever ways to show off kids creativity in the home, in collaboration with the removals furniture storage team at Removal Services Scotland. ------------------------------------------------------------ Why don’t you display your children’s talent and show their skills around the house? As well as being proud of what they've produced, their work will be - [Party Snacks for the Festive Season](https://scottishmum.com/2015/11/party-snacks-for-the-festive-season/) - We nearly all come to it every year. Among many of the people I know, there seems to be a bit of a competition to see who puts out the most extravagant spread. It even got to the point at one time, that if I went anywhere there were only a couple of limp sandwiches - [Party Cocktails - Perfect for Xmas](https://scottishmum.com/2021/11/party-cocktails-perfect-for-xmas/) - Before I start, I'll just say I did not receive any reward for posting this. When it's coming up to Christmas time, lots of us often look for inspiration and something different from the regular Martini, Manhattan, Mojito or many more of the oldies. I'd received a press release from Aloha 65, and learned that - [Do We Still Like Afternoon Tea?](https://scottishmum.com/2013/09/do-we-still-like-afternoon-tea/) - One of the things that I've always enjoyed on holidays is the ability to chill out on a lazy afternoon and just enjoy spending time with people I really want to be with. In April this year, the BBC reported that there are "more than 160m cups drunk every day - and a resurgence in - [Review: Antsy Labs Zuru Spinner and the amazing Fidget Cube](https://scottishmum.com/2017/08/review-antsy-labs-zuru-spinner-and-the-amazing-fidget-cube/) - We received some samples of the new Antsy Labs Fidget Cube and Fidget Spinner. To say two of my boys couldn't wait to get their hands on them, is an understatement. Two of mine are very restless, and tend to use anything they can get their hands on to fidget with, even if it's just - [Are Fizzy Drinks Bad For Us?](https://scottishmum.com/2012/11/are-fizzy-drinks-bad-for-us/) - I love carbonated drinks. I have a soda stream, so my fizz of choice tends to be simply diluting juice with added sparkle. The question I really have to ask, is should I really be drinking any fizz at all? We all know the sugary fizzy drinks, otherwise known as soda, pop, or ale depending - [Picture Perfect: 7 Tips for Storing and Sharing Photos](https://scottishmum.com/2024/10/picture-perfect-7-tips-for-storing-and-sharing-photos/) - In our digital age, the sheer volume of photos we capture is staggering. Every sunset, family gathering, and spontaneous moment is preserved on our devices, seemingly forever—but is it? Digital photos are both a blessing and a challenge. Storing and sharing them effectively requires some know-how. Let’s delve into ways to keep your memories safe - [Special Birthday Film Night](https://scottishmum.com/2011/11/special-birthday-film-night/) - Last week there was a little boys birthday in our house. Thanks to the lovely Claire from Cheshire Claire, and talking to her about the successful film night that she had for her son's birthday a few weeks ago, I decided to copy her and have a few friends over to play for littlest (ahem, - [Giveaway & Von Shef Digital Slow Cooker Review. Ends 16th Dec 15](https://scottishmum.com/2015/11/giveaway-von-shef-digital-slow-cooker-review/) - We received the Von Shef Digital Slow Cooker for review from Domu, the lifestyle brand of Designer Habitat. My old 6.5 Litre slow cooker needed replacing, so the arrival of a new one was very welcome indeed. There's also the chance to win one for yourself further down the post. I've written about Domu before, - [Charity: Are you brave enough to let your child style you for a day on 10th June 2016?](https://scottishmum.com/2016/06/charity-are-you-brave-enough-to-let-your-child-style-you-for-a-day-on-10th-june-2016/) - I often get asked to help publicise events for charities, and I do pick some to share with you all, especially where I think they're relevant to much of my audience. The UK's largest breast cancer charity asked me to write about a new fundraising event they have coming up in a few days... - [Is Your Heating Ready For The Cold Weather](https://scottishmum.com/2024/10/is-your-heating-ready-for-the-cold-weather/) - I'm very aware of the cold weather coming in. It's already dark up here in the North East of Scotland by around 8pm, and quickly getting earlier and earlier. It'll soon be dark by about 4.30.... I had to put a new boiler in at the beginning of the year as our old one had - [Review: Von Shef Frozen Dessert Maker](https://scottishmum.com/2014/12/review-von-shef-frozen-dessert-maker/) - Domu is a brand, resulting form ten years experience with Designer Habitat. Their goal is to give customers very competitively priced gadgets at a lower price than the traditional brand name items. The products allow us to get a wide variety of home and kitchen products at a much lower cost than traditional brands. - [Stop Loafing Around - Calling Young Bakers](https://scottishmum.com/2017/07/stop-loafing-around-calling-young-bakers/) - Fancy doing something a little different? Get your pinny on and enter the Tiptree World Bread Awards. The annual Tiptree World Bread Awards with Brook Foods, is open to both amateur and professional bakers. The purpose of the awards, is to celebrate the art of bread making. The Kitchen Aid Young Baker category is looking - [Black Jeans and Bold Accessories: How to Stand Out This Autumn](https://scottishmum.com/2024/09/black-jeans-and-bold-accessories-how-to-stand-out-this-autumn/) - As the crisp autumn air begins to sweep across the country, it’s time to transition your wardrobe from the airy fabrics of summer to the more substantial layers of fall. Whether you're apple-picking, attending fall festivities, or simply sipping a spiced latte in a cosy café, your outfit can be an expression of both comfort - [10 Life Changing Benefits of Eating Avocados](https://scottishmum.com/2021/09/10-life-changing-benefits-of-eating-avocados/) - One of my all time favourites is an avocado. I'm always surprised by friends who never actually eat one, and have no idea what it is or what it can be cooked in. That's slightly depressing for me, as it's something I've eaten for so many years, it's become a staple ingredient in my home. 10 Benefits of Eating Avocado. - [Lets Talk About Chocolate](https://scottishmum.com/2021/08/lets-talk-about-chocolate/) - That lucious, lovely, silky, creamy smooth taste........ Chocolate and I would be joined at the hip if I weren't diabetic. Not just any chocolate though, as I'm not a true chocolate connoiseur. I like milky chocolate, creamy chocolate, the not bitter milk chocolate that takes my breath away and stings my tongue. Dark chocolate makes - [My scabby lounge makeover - before and after. What this blog paid for.](https://scottishmum.com/2012/07/my-scabby-lounge-makeover-before-and-after-what-this-blog-paid-for/) - Who says blogging doesn't pay for anything... My lounge was badly in need of a makeover. Actually, it's badly been needing a makeover for a few years now, but with the kids, and middlers propensity for temper tantrums and trashing things when his medication wears off, I really didn't see the point of doing it. - [A Beautiful Birthday Gift During Lockdown From Eternity Rose](https://scottishmum.com/2020/05/a-beautiful-birthday-gift-during-lockdown-from-eternity-rose/) - I don't know about all of you, but I've rarely been out of joggers for the last three weeks, which isn't always good for the midsection and doesn't bode well for getting my clothes fastened when the lockdown is eased. My birthday passed recently, and since celebrations are all at home for the moment, there - [Curating Your Own Gallery Wall: How to Display Photos with Style](https://scottishmum.com/2024/09/curating-your-own-gallery-wall-how-to-display-photos-with-style/) - Creating a gallery wall can transform a bland room into a dynamic and personalised space. Whether you are showcasing family portraits, travel snapshots, or abstract art, a gallery wall tells a story – your story. Yet, many find the process daunting, unsure where to start or how to make it cohesive. With a few thoughtful - [Utterly Gorgeous De'Longhi 2kw Oil Filled Radiator - Great Value - Find Out More](https://scottishmum.com/2024/09/utterly-gorgeous-delonghi-2kw-oil-filled-radiator-great-value-find-out-more/) - Why I Bought This Radiator I bought this radiator on a whim, but a long planned whim, and as a way of heating my workspace when everyone is out for the day. It's for a winter boost, and it's cheaper than having the gas heating on all day. I'd been watching these for a while - [Review: Niermann-Standby Beetle Table Light, sold by Wayfair UK](https://scottishmum.com/2012/05/review-niermann-standby-beetle-table-light-sold-by-wayfair-uk/) - We were happily sent the Niermann- Standby Beetle Table Light from Wayfair's range of lamps for children to review. A delighted middler opened the box with glee. I was slightly surprised that the lamp had come from Germany, but it did arrive very quickly, so I wouldn't say that it was a problem at all. - [The House of Fraser Bloggers Recipe Book & My Cheese and Tomato Quiche Recipe](https://scottishmum.com/2015/01/the-house-of-fraser-bloggers-recipe-book-my-cheese-and-tomato-quiche-recipe/) - The House of Fraser have been doing some sterling work with bloggers recently. We much appreciate the time and effort gone into what they do while they work with us. I'm delighted to show you the results of my recipe in their fabulous book. I chose one of my recipes that is easy to make - [Review: Star Wars Interactech Rogue One Imperial Stormtrooper](https://scottishmum.com/2016/12/review-star-wars-interactech-rogue-one-imperial-stormtrooper/) - The Hasbro Toy Tribe has been good to us once again. The Star Wars Rogue One Imperial Stormtrooper arrived on our doorstep, and with an afternoon stuck in with a sore back, I decided to make use of my time. When my kids look for toys to play with, I know they tend to first - [Easy Ways to Make Your Back Garden More Attractive](https://scottishmum.com/2018/07/easy-ways-to-make-your-back-garden-more-attractive/) - Collaborative Post If you have a home with a large garden, it’s a waste to let it go unattended, especially if you have kids around. There are plenty of things you can do to give the space a lift if you’re feeling creative, and the good news is, most of these things don’t even have - [Awareness: Children's Food Crisis In South Sudan](https://scottishmum.com/2014/09/awareness-childrens-food-crisis-in-south-sudan-from-unicef/) - This month, UNICEF are campaigning to raise awareness of the current food crisis in South Sudan. Meet Nyakhat She is three years old. Yes, that is a tiny three years old. She's not much more than a baby, yet she led her blind father for four hours to find a UNICEF relief centre to find - [How to use Lemons to Clean your Home](https://scottishmum.com/2023/03/how-to-use-lemons-to-clean-your-home/) - *This post contains affiliate links to Amazon in images and links. If you click on these and make a purchase, my blog may earn a few pennies.* My mother was a whizz with the vinegar and the lemon. I keep meaning to write them up on the blog, and have forgotten over and over again - [Cooking Measurements and Kitchen Conversion Chart](https://scottishmum.com/2023/02/cooking-measurements-and-kitchen-conversion-chart/) - When we measure ingredients, it's important that for some dishes, the measures are precise. For us in the UK, it's fairly simple. We use scales for pretty much everything. I don't think I even own anything that measures in cups, apart from an old glass jug that has liquid cups on the side. Saying that, - [5 Simple Reasons to Buy an Airfryer & Save Money](https://scottishmum.com/2023/02/5-simple-reasons-to-buy-an-airfryer-save-money/) - Disclaimer: This blog post contains affiliate links and images to Amazon UK, which may earn me a few pennies if you click on them and make a purchase. I've spoken about energy saving already recently, but the news is still going mad for air fryers. After spending a whole week last week, furiously looking for - [10 Energy Saving Cooking Tips](https://scottishmum.com/2023/01/10-energy-saving-cooking-tips/) - Wee Notice: This blog post contains affiliate links to Amazon UK, which may earn me a few pennies if you click on them and make a purchase. Many people are in fuel poverty this winter, likely reaching into the millions, of whom, many have never struggled for their energy bills in the past. I've been - [Crustless Tattie, Cheese, Tomato & Onion Quiche](https://scottishmum.com/2015/03/crustless-tattie-cheese-tomato-onion-quiche/) - Not everyone likes pastry, or wants the calories and fat that come from making it. It doesn't mean we have to do without quiche style dishes. This version is made using a regular oven dish, with all the ingredients just placed in. PASTRY FREE POTATO, CHEESE, ONION AND TOMATO QUICHE (CRUSTLESS QUICHE) Serves10-12Prep time20 minutesCook - [Tesco Charitable Mum of the Year 2013 - Ann Maxwell](https://scottishmum.com/2013/02/tesco-charitable-mum-of-the-year-2013-ann-maxwell/) - As a parent of special needs children, I know just how tiring and demanding filling the needs of our children, earning some money, and doing a spot of volunteering here and there can be. Ann Maxwell took that to an entirely new level. Ann's son, Muir, was diagnosed with Dravet Syndrome which is a very - [Are You a Mortgage Prisoner?](https://scottishmum.com/2024/02/are-you-a-mortgage-prisoner/) - Hot off the heels of the Post Office sub-postmasters and postmistresses who were prosecuted after Horizon software made it look like money was missing, comes another scandal yet to be addressed. Like the post office staff who were treated unfairly, our Government also chose to turn a blind eye to the 200,000 mortgage holders who - [The First Million Dollar Facials in Kingswells, Aberdeen](https://scottishmum.com/2023/04/the-first-million-dollar-facials-in-kingswells-aberdeen/) - I've loved the Million Dollar Facial products for a while. There are just so many lovely ones to choose from. In Kingswells, Aberdeen, there is a little cabin providing Million Dollar Facials for anyone looking to increase the health and appearance of their skin. My favourite products are the Nourishing Balm and the SPF50 from - [Wild and Game British Pie Week Recipe](https://scottishmum.com/2023/05/wild-and-game-british-pie-week-recipe/) - I'm a bit late for this one, but it's not to late to make this at home for yourself. Enjoy a game pie, with the recipe developed for British pie week To celebrate British Pie Week (March 6-12), game specialist Wild and Game released a simple recipe for home-cooked game pie. By specialising in frozen - [The Do’s and Don’ts when Storing Fine Wines](https://scottishmum.com/2018/08/the-dos-and-donts-when-storing-fine-wines/) - (Collaborative Post) Fine wine storage is an art, and if you’re unfamiliar with the whole process, you could end up making mistakes that will have a negative on your wine’s quality and not allow it to develop and age the way that it should. If you want to preserve your fine wines the right way, - [Roasted Spiralised Carrot & Feta Salad](https://scottishmum.com/2018/01/roasted-spiralised-carrot-feta-salad/) - Now we're past the most depressing day of the year, why not have a look at one of the recipes from Aldi, to brighten up the rest of the month. In the past, I've never been much for spiralising, but it does look very good in pictures and on plates. Happy January. Roasted Spiralised - [How to Make a Playroom](https://scottishmum.com/2017/12/how-to-make-a-playroom/) - This is a collaborative post. When your kids start to grow up and become a little more independent, it can be a relief. As they begin to play imaginatively by themselves, you get a little of your life back, and are at least able to work around the house without needing to care for them - [Review: Nespresso New Summer Iced Coffee Pod Range](https://scottishmum.com/2017/08/review-nespresso-new-summer-iced-coffee-pod-range/) - My last coffee machine was on it's last legs, and being ever thrifty, I've just let it limp along, sometimes working and sometimes not. I've meant to look for one for a while, so the offer to try Nespresso coffee pods came at the right time. We didn't have a compatible machine to try the - [A Future Bedroom Refresh for The Teen](https://scottishmum.com/2017/04/a-future-bedroom-refresh-for-the-teen/) - Brought to you in collaboration with Teacherboards. It's safe to say middlers bedroom is a bit of a stromash at the moment. He's a child/teenager, as so many special needs children are, and although he wants to be a teen, he's still a child at heart. His room badly needs doing, but as with everything - [Mackie's, now sell chocolate. Yes, they do. Not just lush ice-cream. (Review)](https://scottishmum.com/2015/10/mackies-now-sell-chocolate-yes-they-do-not-just-lush-ice-cream-review/) - In the past, Mackie's has always stuck in my mind as the king of ice-creams around here, with the creamy, silky texture. My mother is very ice-cream picky, and she could always tell if I tried to substitute with something else, if the shop had sold out of her favourite brand. On Twitter, I was - [Win a box of Mackie's Chocolate - Ends 6th November 2015](https://scottishmum.com/2015/10/win-a-box-of-mackies-chocolate-ends-6th-november-2015/) - Some of you may have already seen the review of chocolate bars we were sent by Mackie's of Scotland. They've come back and agreed to send one of my lucky readers a box of their delicious chocolate. Up for grabs, is a mixed box of 15 bars of lush chocolate, straight from Scotland, for one - [Win 6kg of premium Caffe Pera Coffee Beans for International Coffee Day. Giveaway Ends 30th October.](https://scottishmum.com/2015/09/win-6kg-of-premium-caffe-pera-coffee-beans-for-international-coffee-day-giveaway-ends-30th-october/) - In the US, they celebrate National Coffee Day on the 29th September, but for this year, 2015, the first official International Coffee Day is set for the 1st October, where 75 Member States of the International Coffee Organisations, and many other businesses, will be celebrating coffee in all its forms. Join the 75 Member States - [Tips for Filling a Christmas Stocking](https://scottishmum.com/2015/09/tips-for-filling-a-christmas-stocking/) - This guest post is brought to you in collaboration with Just Miniatures. I know, I know, it's only September, but I've already bought some of my gifts for this year, otherwise I'd never make it through the holiday season. ---------------- The Christmas stocking might seem like the easiest gift to handle come Christmastime, especially as - [Giveaway: Win a £100 JoJo Maman Bébé Gift Voucher (CLOSED)](https://scottishmum.com/2015/07/giveaway-win-a-100-jojo-maman-bebe-gift-voucher/) - JoJo Maman Bébé, has recently opened a new store in my home town, in Aberdeen. To celebrate the opening, I'm carrying a UK wide giveaway, for a £100 voucher. In total, they have around 70 stores around the country, and also have an online shop. I don't think there are many of us mums around - [10 Dishes To Make With Oatmeal](https://scottishmum.com/2015/05/10-dishes-to-make-with-oatmeal/) - Let's face it. On its own, oatmeal just isn' t seen as sexy enough for breakfast, but if you really and truly do think that, then you're missing out on a fabulous food to start the day, and much more besides. There's more to oatmeal than just porridge, although porridge is a fine meal in - [Madeira Wine Cake Recipe](https://scottishmum.com/2015/03/madeira-wine-cake-recipe/) - I used to think that Madeira Cake was made with Madeira wine, the same way that liqueurs are often substituted in recipes. It took a long time for me to realise that the Madeira Wine came in as the perfect accompaniment to a crumbly sponge cake. I'd be tempted to use almost any sponge cake - [Which Wine To Choose For Which Dishes](https://scottishmum.com/2015/03/which-wine-to-choose-for-which-dishes/) - This infographic is posted in collaboration with Roberson Wine. Do you know which wines go with which foods? I know I don't. As someone who only rarely drinks it, I find myself in a dilemma quite often if we have people over for a meal, and I have no idea which wines to make a - [Win a Bissell Powerglide Cordless Vacuum Cleaner - Ends 30th Nov 2015](https://scottishmum.com/2015/10/win-a-bissell-powerglide-cordless-vacuum-cleaner-ends-30th-nov-2015/) - You might not know it yet, but Bissell have launched a new vacuum cleaner, and I have one to giveaway to a lucky reader. There is one on the way to me too, so I'll post a review once I've had a chance to get my hands on it, and start cleaning away. With an - [Review: BISSELL POWERGLIDE CORDLESS VACUUM CLEANER](https://scottishmum.com/2015/10/review-bissell-powerglide-cordless-vacuum-cleaner/) - I have a live giveaway running for one of these Bissell Powerglide Cordless Vacuum Cleaners. It ends on the 30th November 2015, so get your skates on if you want to enter. It's a new vacuum for Bissell, and they're really excited by the new launch. Bissell sent me one to review and it's been - [Review: Edge of Belgravia Black Diamond Knife Block and Precision Chef Knife Series](https://scottishmum.com/2015/11/review-edge-of-belgravia-black-diamond-knife-block-and-precision-chef-knife-series/) - Being offered great knives is one of the many lovely things about writing a blog that also has so much food on it. The new Black Diamond shaped knife block I received, was created by London designer, Christian Bird. It's a very modern and swish addition to any kitchen, and it just happens to be - [Apple & Blueberry Pie + Cherry Shots: Review: Frozen Fruit and The Taste Buds](https://scottishmum.com/2015/11/apple-blueberry-pie-cherry-shots-review-frozen-fruit-and-the-taste-buds/) - As someone whose house goes through a mini mountain of fruit a week, I'm always on the lookout for good and tasty fruit. I often freeze my own strawberries as I tend to dislike the shop bought frozen ones as they somehow change the texture for me. When I freeze strawberries myself, they seem to - [Avoiding Hazardous Chemicals for Safe Food Packaging](https://scottishmum.com/2015/12/avoiding-hazardous-chemicals-for-safe-food-packaging/) - In collaboration with Mercury Packaging. In days gone by, before the widespread uptake of health and safety concerns, food packaging could well contain many substances that were harmful to human beings of which we were largely unaware. But as recently as 2014, the Food Packaging Forum of Zurich found evidence of 175 dangerous chemicals in - [Soup Maker Recipes Kindle E-Book - 60 Soupmaker Recipes by Moi, on Amazon now...](https://scottishmum.com/2016/01/kindle-e-book-60-soupmaker-recipes-by-moi-on-amazon-now/) - Apologies for those of you who also follow me over on the Soupmaker Club blog, as you'll have received this twice. I started putting an e-book together after being asked for a soup maker recipe book for ones I've published online. It's live now on Amazon, and some of you might have seen it already, - [Review: Titan Steel Lightening Cable. Is it the strongest cable on earth?](https://scottishmum.com/2015/12/review-titan-steel-lightening-cable-is-it-the-strongest-cable-on-earth/) - I can't guarantee that the Tital is completely indestructible, as we've not managed to break ours, but a virtually indestructable cable is one thing that we really needed. My middle boy is very hard on his chargers and we've gone through quite a few in his iPod lifetime. As much as we try to tell - [Me. Yes. In a Dress!](https://scottishmum.com/2016/09/me-yes-in-a-dress/) - This is what happens when you ask a child who's in a hurry to take some pix for you. Ever so arty, squint and wiggly, slightly sepia photos, but there was nobody else around to help, and as I don't get the opportunity to dress up too often, I thought I'd share a part of - [Taking out the Garbage....](https://scottishmum.com/2016/11/taking-out-the-garbage/) - This post is all about Recycling and Waste Management - Do you do it? We had a wee note through the post a few days ago, with a big red splodge across the top and telling me, in no uncertain terms, that from now on, our waste management team in Aberdeen is wielding a baton in - [Sponsored: Eating and Drinking in Edinburgh](https://scottishmum.com/2014/05/sponsored-eating-and-drinking-in-edinburgh/) - Scottish food isn’t just about haggis and deep-fried Mars bars you know, although if you want to sample those delicacies they are of course readily available in Edinburgh. But Edinburgh is actually a gourmet’s paradise, packed with fantastic restaurants from the humble-yet-delicious to the Michelin-starred. And of course when dinner is over, there’s always a - [How to sleep through the night in the warm summer months.](https://scottishmum.com/2017/06/how-to-sleep-through-the-night-in-the-warm-summer-months/) - I don't usually share infographics, but this one is very relevant to me, as I often struggle to sleep in the summer months. How To Beat The Heat & Sleep Through The Night In The Summer Months - An infographic by the team at SleepyPeople.com To sleep well, a good mattress is always a great - [World Hunger Day Challenge - A Meal For 33p A Head](https://scottishmum.com/2015/05/world-hunger-challenge-a-meal-for-33p-a-head/) - The 28th May is World Hunger Day When I was asked to take part in the recipe challenge, to create a healthy meal for just 33p a head in aid of World Hunger Day, I decided to take part in the dine below the line campaign when MyVoucherCodes offered to donate £40 to the cause on my - [Where's YOUR Happy Place?](https://scottishmum.com/2017/08/wheres-your-happy-place/) - In collaboration with SACO Would you believe that one in four of Scottish people given a choice, said their favourite happy place is a white sandy Hebridean beach? It's a thought provoking finding, and I suspect it has absolutely everything to do with those white sandy beaches. I don't think anyone could say no to - [Olive Oil Buyers Guide by Jamie's Italian](https://scottishmum.com/2017/12/olive-oil-buyers-guide-by-jamies-italian/) - This is a Collaborative Post. Deciding which olive oil to buy isn't always an easy thing to do. I know I've spent time looking at labels and trying to decide which is the best option for me. In the past, I've always tended to go with Extra Virgin Olive Oil, just because it sounded better, - [Music To Improve Dementia Care](https://scottishmum.com/2018/01/music-to-improve-dementia-care/) - My regular readers tend to know my mum has advanced dementia and also lives with us. We're always looking for ways to include her, and at the moment, it tends to work around her need to see children playing. In a care home, that just wouldn't happen, so she is best cared for by us, - [Review: Trespass Zachariah Jacket - Limone](https://scottishmum.com/2015/07/review-trespass-zachariah-jacket-limone/) - One of my boys has been looking for a yellow jacket for quite some time now. He's used a high vis vest in the past when he's on his bike in winter, but he has wanted a nice bright jacket that's both windproof and waterproof. One that isn't too bulky, and means he can wear - [Review: Captain America Nerf Slide Blast Armour, Magnetic Shield & Gauntlet](https://scottishmum.com/2016/10/review-captain-america-nerf-slide-blast-armour-magnetic-shield-gauntlet/) - This is a great wee duo. Captain America is possible for two to play.... One child can happily wear the magnetic shield and gauntlet, allowing them to fend off the foam darts of the Nerf Slide Blast Armour when they comes flying toward them. Surprisingly enough, it wasn't the youngest ones who began to play - [Review: Nerf Hyperfire](https://scottishmum.com/2016/08/review-nerf-hyperfire/) - As part of Hasbro Toy Tribe, we've received a lovely new toy to try, the Nerf n Strike Elite Hyperfire Blaster, for ages 8-16. Currently £49.99 from Toysrus. We've already got one Nerf, with precious few foam darts left, so getting this to try was very well received by my boys, and even my teen - [Having Wide Feet Isn't Fair.......](https://scottishmum.com/2017/04/having-wide-feet-isnt-fair/) - Brought to you, in collaboration with Simply Be. I think the name of this says it all. I'm one of those people with boats for feet. Really, when I was around the age of 10, I'd hit a size 7 in shoes, and was just touching five foot tall. By the time I was 11, - [Recipe: Dulcey de Leche Chocolate Cupcakes](https://scottishmum.com/2018/08/recipe-dulcey-de-leche-chocolate-cupcakes/) - National Cupcake Week 2018 Bakers at the ready! National Cupcake Week returns to the UK from 18-24 September 2018. To celebrate the occasion, Royal Lancaster London will be serving up an exclusive cupcake-creation from Head Pastry Chef Steve Penny: Dark Chocolate and Dulcey de Leche Cupcakes. The indulgent treat will be served in the hotel’s - [The Gift - Five Present Ideas for Your Other Half](https://scottishmum.com/2015/03/the-gift-five-present-ideas-for-your-other-half/) - This guest post is in collaboration with Thorntons Gifts For Men. If you have a special occasion like an anniversary or a birthday coming up, finding a present for your significant other that’s truly meaningful can be stressful. Men can sometimes be difficult to shop for, and sometimes, generic just won’t cut it. Here are - [Actifry Recipe: Summer Garden Veg with Garlic](https://scottishmum.com/2015/08/actifry-recipe/) - Simple and easy, and very tasty veg. You can do these in a frying plan or a wok, but the Actifry does make it simple. Actifry Recipe: Summer Garden Veg I made this instead of boiling potatoes. 2 Courgettes (Medium)4 Medium Sized Onions15 - 18 Cherry Sized TomatoesHandful of Sliced Peppers1 - 2 Garlic Cloves1 - [Rhubarb Jam Recipe: Garden Goodies](https://scottishmum.com/2015/05/rhubarb-jam-recipe-garden-goodies/) - Rhubarb jam has to be one of the easiest to make. I've been a bit lazy with the first batch from our allotment this year and just used preserve making sugar instead of adding lemon juice. Last year, my rhubarb jam was just a tiny bit too runny, although it tasted gorgeous, but the hope - [No Base - Low Sugar & Virtually Fat Free Cheesecake](https://scottishmum.com/2015/06/no-base-low-sugar-virtually-fat-free-cheesecake/) - Using up the Quark I bought as a tester was easier than I thought. As a diabetic, I don't want the sugar that is usually added to cheesecake, but I also didn't want the calories from some of the other options, nor the carbs from a stodgy base. This is a light and different way - [Cream Cheese Pancakes - Low Carb & Gluten Free](https://scottishmum.com/2015/07/cream-cheese-pancakes-low-carb-gluten-free/) - Who said pancakes need to have flour in them? Oh yes, not me!! Looking for low sugar and low carb alternatives for foods isn't the easiest thing to do, but if you play around with different ingredients, it's surprising what you can make. For this, I used Quark, but you could use any old cream - [Courgette Jam (with some cucumber)](https://scottishmum.com/2016/01/courgette-jam-with-some-cucumber/) - I didn't have quite enough courgette to use up the 1kg of sugar in my cupboard, so there was an added 150g cucumber to make up the numbers. We were quite surprised by the result of this, as it's a very marmalade style texture and taste, but without the tartness. I will definitely make this - [Difference between Best Before, Use By & Sell By](https://scottishmum.com/2022/04/difference-between-best-before-use-by-sell-by/) - When I stood watching a female friend pick up a bottle of milk and pour it out, saying it was past its' best, despite not even smelling it. I sneakily took a look at the use by date by offering to pop the bottle in the recycling. It still had three days to go. I - [Happy Pancake Day 2016: Strawberry Pancakes](https://scottishmum.com/2016/02/happy-pancake-day-2016-strawberry-pancakes/) - It's that time again, the Shrove Tuesday, that every year, brings out the pancake maker in all of us. This time round, I've opted for a fruity version, with some lovely strawberry pancakes, that get a little bit of goodness in our kids, while they enjoy some deliciousness at the same time. Pancakes are easy - [Soup Maker Recipe: Pickled Onion and Celery Soup](https://scottishmum.com/2015/03/soup-maker-recipe-pickled-onion-and-celery-soup/) - Pickled onions are pungent. This recipe won't suit everyone, but if you like a tangy taste, give it a go. How tangy you want pickled onions soup, depends on the vinegar the onions you pick have been pickled in. The stronger the vinegar, the more pungent the soup. Sweet vinegar will give a vegetable soup - [10 Low Carb Desserts from around the net (low sugar).](https://scottishmum.com/2015/08/10-low-carb-desserts-from-around-the-net-low-sugar/) - Looking up some recipes that I don't throw together, isn't something I do often. I'm very much of a chuck things in and see how they turn out, but I've had a trawl through some recipes I really like the look of, and quite fancy trying. See what you think too. Remember, that low carb - [Expedia World on a plate - France](https://scottishmum.com/2015/10/expedia-world-on-a-plate-france/) - This was a very interesting challenge for me, given that until recently, we drove down to France on a yearly basis for our summer holidays. Despite spending months in France, in total, I doubt that we've actually even tried anything that remotely resembles French cuisine. In the past, I've always thought of frogs legs and - [5 Things For Grownups To Do In The Evenings](https://scottishmum.com/2015/05/5-things-for-grownups-to-do-in-the-evenings/) - The days are getting longer and the evenings are lighter, but not yet terribly warm. With the May holiday weekend on our doorstep, I know that many of us wonder what we can do in the evenings when we've put our kids to bed. Before my blogging days, I used to find the evenings quite - [Healthy Heart Food](https://scottishmum.com/2021/04/healthy-heart-food/) - I've written nothing really to do with Covid-19. I think Coronavirus is in the news enough, without bloggers jumping on the weekly covid update posts, but it's also not something we tend to be able to ignore either. For myself and my family, a lazy spell in the first lockdown, has moved towards a more - [A Visit to Hazlehead Park in Aberdeen #BetterPlaces #BritMums](https://scottishmum.com/2015/02/a-visit-to-hazlehead-park-in-aberdeen-betterplaces-britmums/) - Where do you go when you want a bit of peace and quiet, or simply somewhere calming to help ease the stresses in your life? For me, one of my favourite places is a park that lies not far from us. Hazlehead Park in Aberdeen, is a nice calming place for me. I started to - [Review: Tassimo Coffee Maker](https://scottishmum.com/2015/02/review-tassimo-coffee-maker/) - We've recently been using a Tassimo Coffee Machine. It's not the top of range one, as we had to go with one that had a large tank on it. Ours is the Fidelia T40 Tassimo by Bosch machine. I was half the price on Argos website in their sale, so I'm surprised to see - [Safer Internet Day 2015 #SID2015](https://scottishmum.com/2015/02/safer-internet-day-2015-sid2015/) - If we've been on the internet for any length of time, we've all done it. Either we've said something we did not really mean, or someone has been mean to us, or called us names, or been downright nasty. We could have seen things we wished we'd never known existed and it can seriously put - [Wear It, Beat It. British Heart Foundation - Heart Month](https://scottishmum.com/2015/02/wear-it-beat-it-british-heart-foundation-heart-month/) - Did you know our hearts beat around 100,000 times a day? That's a lot of work for one muscle to do. It pumps around 23,000 litres of blood around our bodies in a day and just keeps on working away in the background. We're rarely even aware that it's doing anything at all. Today's the - [What Is Pancake Day? Tues 4th Mar 2014](https://scottishmum.com/2014/03/pancake-day-tuesday-4th-march-2014/) - This year, pancake day falls on the 4th of March. Traditionally, Pancake Day, or what is often called Shrove Tuesday in the UK, is the day before Ash Wednesday and signals the start of Lent. Typically, the word shrove means to confess all your sins and it is often known as pancake day as it - [Review: Nairn's Astro Bites](https://scottishmum.com/2014/11/review-nairns-astro-bites/) - Thank you to Nairn's for sending us some of their Astro Bites to review. Astro bites are bite sized oaty biscuits, made with wholegrain oats, fruit pieces, and with less sugar than the average children's biscuit. They come in little mini bags, that make perfect sized lunchbag treats. The shapes are in the form of - [American Pancakes Recipe (Fluffy Pancakes)](https://scottishmum.com/2014/02/american-pancakes-recipe-fluffy-pancakes/) - I was on the hunt for a springy pancake recipe. In Scotland, we often make Scotch Pancakes, or what's often called "drop scones" but they tend to be a little flatter than I was looking for. I came across Nigellas American Pancakes Recipe in the hope that I'd have some lovely springy pancakes. I adapted - [A Christmas Tale - 26 Gorgeous Children - A Party - Special Needs](https://scottishmum.com/2011/12/a-christmas-tale-26-gorgeous-children-a-party-special-needs/) - Saturday was a revelation. A group of parents run a special needs club at the weekends, with the support of a school and the grateful advice and help from the National Autistic Society. We borrow a school premises and open up to children with ANY type of disability up to the age of 14 in - [Review & Giveaway: Wallace Tartan Blanket Rug from #BuyAKilt.com](https://scottishmum.com/2014/10/review-giveaway-wallace-tartan-blanket-rug-from-buyakilt-com/) - Up for a giveaway, is a lovely Wallace Tartan Blanket Rug from buyakilt.com. They were lovely enough to send us one to review, which is going to my youngest child, who has the odd habit of playing x-box in his bedroom, with his window wide open, then complaining of being too cold. The blanket is - [Review: Chocolat Chocolat Handmade Bars Of Chocolate](https://scottishmum.com/2014/11/review-chocolat-chocolat-handmade-bars-of-chocolate/) - A big thank you to Chocolat Chocolat for sending us some handmade bars of chocolate to try out. Chocolat Chocolat has been in Cambridge since 1999, when they opened their shop, selling a range of luxury chocolates. The chocolate is handmade sheet chocolate, made with the finest Belgian chocolate. The sheets are sprinkled with fabulous - [Giveaway: Battroborg Battle Arena - Ends 16th January 2014](https://scottishmum.com/2013/12/giveaway-battroborg-battle-arena-ends-16th-january-2013/) - Colonel Clubber vs Scaldor Tomy sent us the Battroborg Battle Arena to review and have also offered one as a giveaway. I tried to persuade two of the kids to open ours and play with it, but they're adamant that they want to give it to their brother for Christmas from them, so we sneakily - [Featured Guest Post: Clothes for the Great Outdoors: My new season wish list](https://scottishmum.com/2014/01/featured-guest-post-clothes-for-the-great-outdoors-my-new-season-wish-list/) - Featured Guest Post by Katie Belle Before I became a mum, I pretty much used to go into hibernation once temperatures started falling, rushing from home to work and back home again, where I’d put the fire on and remain put, unless of course I managed to find a restaurant or bar with a cosy fire. But, once - [Review: iRobot Roomba 780 (Robot Hoover)](https://scottishmum.com/2014/02/review-irobot-roomba-780-robot-hoover/) - We all like a clean house, well who doesn't. The ability to have a room clean itself used to be something I could only dream about. We've had a robot hoover for a few months now and to be honest, I couldn't imagine being without it anymore. Ok, it's not perfect, but it does save - [Review: Relaxing With Nice Smells from Pied A Terre](https://scottishmum.com/2014/07/review-relaxing-with-nice-smells-from-pied-a-terre/) - Relaxing is something that is pretty difficult to achieve when there are children running around a house. I tend not to watch TV very often, so most of my relaxing time is around sitting at my computer and either writing, researching, tweeting or blogging. As someone who makes her own candles, it was lovely to - [Review: Physics Discovery Kit, Sent By Crafts 4 Kids](https://scottishmum.com/2013/04/review-physics-discovery-kit-sent-by-crafts-4-kids/) - Crafts4kids kindly sent us a Physics Discover Kit from Thames and Kosmos. The Physics Discovery kit is for ages 8+ and has 17 experiments in total where kids can learn physics by making fun models to use at home. There are a whopping 14 models that can be built with the kit we were sent - [Sponsored: A great night’s sleep guaranteed.](https://scottishmum.com/2013/04/sponsored-a-great-nights-sleep-guaranteed/) - Every parent knows that establishing a regular “bedtime” routine for your kids is far from the easiest task in the world. In her new book Sleep Solutions: Quiet Nights for You and Your Child, celebrity nanny Rachel Waddilove stresses that a regular bedtime routine is absolutely crucial. She provides some useful tips on how to - [Giveaway: Scottish Fish Delivery Worth £67 - Straight to your door from Delish Fish.](https://scottishmum.com/2013/08/giveaway-scottish-fish-delivery-worth-67-straight-to-your-door-from-delish-fish/) - The lovely people at Delish Fish have offered a lovely giveaway for my readers. I've had the pleasure of using Delish Fish produce in the past and their Wild Haddock made for very happy kids with their breaded fish. In the giveaway for my blog, Delish Fish are giving away a high class box of: 1kg Monk 1kg - [What does "Favouriting Tweets" mean to you?](https://scottishmum.com/2013/10/what-does-favouriting-tweets-mean-to-you/) - A few days ago, I saw a tweet that was retweeted and I followed a link to an article about favouriting tweets. I opened my surprised eyes as it talked about things that seemed more fitting as terms from fiction riding under the radar of legality. I chuckled as it talked about hate-faves, fist bumps - [Sponsored: Ten Most Important Family Values To Cherish At Christmas](https://scottishmum.com/2013/12/sponsored-ten-most-important-family-values-to-cherish-at-christmas/) - Although there’s no denying that Christmas and presents are inextricably linked, there’s a lot more to the festive season than the simple giving of gifts. Family reunions, houses full to bursting and the pressures of putting on a perfect Christmas celebration can become overwhelming, meaning that you need your family around you and working with - [Christmas Delivery Dates Calendar](https://scottishmum.com/2012/12/christmas-delivery-dates-calendar/) - This is a thoughtful and helpful feature from Castle Cover. They have built a delivery dates calendar for us all to use. If you're not sure when the Christmas Delivery Dates are, then just take a look at the interactive pages on their website and it will help you make the right decisions about those last-minute presents - [Spend Vouchers, Get Rewards!](https://scottishmum.com/2012/02/spend-vouchers-get-rewards/) - Sponsored Post Every time you spend money at Tesco, you build up points which will be converted to money off vouchers. Your points build up in-store, online, at petrol stations, and even using the credit card. When you have managed to collect 150 points, they are converted into a Clubcard voucher worth £1.50 which will be sent - [Review: Chad Valley Toys](https://scottishmum.com/2014/10/review-chad-valley-toys/) - We were recently sent some Chad Valley Toys to review as part of their #100daysofplay which started this summer, and encouraged parents up and down the country to share fun playtime ideas on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. We're a wee bit late to the party, but better late than never. Christmas is coming up fast, - [Win a Pentax WG-3 Digital Camera worth £250 + with Specsavers. Closes 31st May 2014](https://scottishmum.com/2014/05/win-a-pentax-wg-3-digital-camera-worth-250-with-specsavers-closes-31st-may-2014/) - I've teamed up with Specsavers to launch a photography competition. It's to capture the special bond struck up by children with their friends, siblings or even their family pets from a young age. The winner of the competition will scoop a Pentax WG-3 digital camera worth more than £250 and a free sight test and eyecare - [BritMums Brilliance In Blogging Award Shortlist 2014 - I'm On It](https://scottishmum.com/2014/05/britmums-brilliance-in-blogging-award-shortlist-2014-im-on-it/) - I am quite surprised to be nominated for the BritMums Brilliance in Blogging Awards for 2014 Stage 1 I've been nominated in the Food category, so for whoever put me forward for it, I am very grateful indeed. It's lovely to think that someone made the effort to have us listed. The shortlist consists of - [Birchbox Review - Good Enough To Eat](https://scottishmum.com/2014/05/birchbox-review-good-enough-to-eat/) - Birchbox sent me one of their lovely monthly boxes to review. It was the April box which was "Good Enough To Eat," Inside the box were my small sample sizes of some make-up, popcorn and wipes. I actually like the sample sizes as they're definitely handy for holidays and small make-up bag goodies. There - [Review: Yumbox Lunchbox](https://scottishmum.com/2014/06/review-yumbox-lunchbox/) - Thanks to Yumbox for our review box to use. As always, we've had ours a little while to test out. The Yumbox is a lunchbox with a lot of thought gone into it. The YumBox lunch boxes come in either green or pink so far and are bento style boxes, where there are little - [Review: Vita Coco Kids - Apple & Blackcurrant / Mango & Pineapple](https://scottishmum.com/2014/07/review-vita-coco-kids-apple-blackcurrant-mango-pineapple/) - The coconut water industry has a new kid on the block. The Vita Coco people have introduced a new kids range which is flavoured with natural fruit. We tried some samples of Apple & Blackcurrant, as well as Mango & Pineapple. The kids verdict was mixed. While two children loved them, one thought the Apple - [Review: Jordans Country Crisp Cereal with Sun Ripe Strawberries](https://scottishmum.com/2014/07/review-jordans-country-crisp-cereal-with-sun-ripe-strawberries/) - Thanks for our review samples for Jordans Country Crisp Cereal with Sun Rip Strawberries. They're baked cereal clusters, made from wholegrain oats grown in our own UK. There are some chopped hazelnuts and strawberries mixed through. I've often found cereals with fruity bits to look dull and unappealing, so I was happy to find - [Edinburgh Fringe for families: a guide](https://scottishmum.com/2014/08/edinburgh-fringe-for-families-a-guide/) - Throughout the month of August every year the world’s largest arts festival is held in the beautiful and richly historical city of Edinburgh: Edinburgh fringe festival. Starting in 1947 with a mere 8 theatre groups, the festival has swelled in size and this year there are now a whopping 49,497 performances of 3,193 shows across - [Review: Scottish Edinburgh Cape from Heritage of Scotland](https://scottishmum.com/2014/08/review-scottish-edinburgh-cape-from-heritage-of-scotland/) - I was given the lovely option of choosing something from the Heritage of Scotland website to review. I've bought from there before, so I knew whatever I chose was going to be great quality. I could have chosen a dress, or a bodice or something dressy, but I figured I'd not get as much use - [Dreaming of Family Holidays with Villa Pia in Tuscany](https://scottishmum.com/2014/08/dreaming-of-family-holidays/) - Featured Post. When Villa Pia got in touch about their fabulous villa in Tuscany, I had to take a look. As a family, we've mostly done the UK thing and the only time my boys have been on a plane was to go to Dublin for a weekend. We have had caravans for years - [Review: Caravan/Motorhome Essentials On The Trip To France, from Olpro](https://scottishmum.com/2014/09/review-caravanmotorhome-essentials-on-the-trip-to-france-from-olpro/) - Thanks to OlPro for giving us some of their chemicals to test. As some of you know, we visited the South of France on a whim this year. The weather in the North of France was dismal so we just kept on driving. That's the beauty of taking your home on your back, so to - [Mothers Day With Maw Broon's](https://scottishmum.com/2014/03/mothers-day-with-maw-broons/) - We received a lovely parcel from the Maw Broon's Home & Kitchen Range. The first thing we saw when we opened the wrapping was a lovely large jute bag that will come in handy. We're just bag fans here and some new ones are badly needed. We use them when we go to the - [Win a bibT Wipe Clean T-Shirt - Closing Date 4th May 2014](https://scottishmum.com/2014/04/win-a-bibt-wipe-clean-t-shirt-closing-date-4th-may-2014/) - bibT recently sent me a wipe clean t-shirt to review. I have a very young nephew and thought it would make a lovely present for him, and I was right. The bibT has a very soft t-shirt base which I found hard to imagine until I had one in my hands. The cotton is - [Win Pip's Alphabet Poster + Bonus Practice Words With Pip App - Ends 10th Dec 2013](https://scottishmum.com/2013/11/win-pips-alphabet-poster-bonus-practice-words-with-pip-app-ends-10th-dec-2013/) - This Alphabet Poster worth £20 is available to one lucky winner, along with access to the Practice Words with Pip App from the iTunes store. Brought to you from Learn To Read With Pip. Pips Alphabet Poster Introduce your child to Pip's magical world of letters with this bright and colourful large wall-poster. Unique artwork shows - [Review: Kenwood KMX54 kMix Stand Mixer with Peach Pavlova Recipe](https://scottishmum.com/2014/01/review-kenwood-kmx54-kmix-stand-mixer-with-peach-pavlova-recipe/) - Being asked to review a Kenwood KMX Stand Mixer is right up my street. I do a lot of cooking, and baking is really never far from my mind. A good baking session means that feeding my kids home-made goodies is better than the sweets and crisps that they would tend to eat otherwise. I've - [Simple Valentines Day Cupcakes Recipe](https://scottishmum.com/2014/02/simple-valentines-day-cupcakes-recipe/) - We all like the kind of recipes that are quick and easy to make. This one is what my kids like to make (and eat). We can all make something special for parents, a girlfriend, or just for fun for Valentines Day. We used the Dr Oetker can of icing to decorate this (and to - [Talk Pants With Your Kids](https://scottishmum.com/2014/02/talk-pants-with-your-kids/) - I was asked to be involved with the underwear campaign for the NSPCC who held a Google hang out. I couldn't make the hangout, but I did commit to raising the issue on my blog. Personally, I think parents and carers often leave it far too late to start talking to kids about the parts - [The Gallery 175 - Guilty Pleasures](https://scottishmum.com/2014/03/the-gallery-175-guilty-pleasures/) - I've not done the gallery for a few years, and I think it's about time I joined back up again and got back to talking to other bloggers a bit more again. This weeks topic is guilty pleasure and that one is actually quite easy as our house favourite has to be the beetroot brownies - [The Gallery 176 - Morning](https://scottishmum.com/2014/03/the-gallery-177/) - This weeks theme is "Morning". Last year, we paid a small fortune to hire a static at Grannies Heilan Hame, and one that was overlooking the beach. It was lovely, and when the tide went out, there were some lovely mornings where middler could go and dig on the beach, even on his own as - [Sponsored: Squeezing in another holiday this year?](https://scottishmum.com/2013/04/sponsored-squeezing-in-another-holiday-this-year/) - The thing we do as a family is to go holidaying in the UK. We plan to take a few short breaks in 2013, and we've already had one. As caravanners, we appreciate the ability to do as we please, and still have a nice comfy base to go back to when we're finished - [Guest Post: Dealing with Link Requests / Sponsored Posts as a Blogger](https://scottishmum.com/2013/05/guest-post-dealing-with-link-requests-sponsored-posts-as-a-blogger/) - This guest post comes from Hannah who blogs at Mummy Macaroni and is also an online marketer who knows what she's talking about. ------------------------------------------------- Most bloggers will be familiar with receiving link requests from other websites. Usually link requests are emails from PRs or SEOs who represent their client in that they are trying to gain exposure - [Featured Guest Post: An ideal family holiday.](https://scottishmum.com/2013/06/featured-guest-post-an-ideal-family-holiday/) - If you’d asked me ten years ago what my ideal holiday consisted of, it would probably have involved a hot beach on an island in the Med, or somewhere further flung if I could afford it and to take a decent length of time off work. However, having children has changed my view of what - [Help For Holiday Hair Horrors](https://scottishmum.com/2013/07/sponsored-holiday-hair-help/) - collaborative post I have thick and wavy hair, even though I straighten it to within an inch of its life daily, and sometimes several times daily. I've often been tempted to have a try at the hair extensions the young kids use nowadays, and my boys elder sister does a great job of creating fabulous - [Where Do You Hide Your Christmas Presents?](https://scottishmum.com/2013/12/where-do-you-hide-your-christmas-presents/) - Tots 100 are hosting a competition that asks "Where do you hide your Christmas Presents? “This post is my entry into the Hudl Christmas cheer competition on the Tots100”. My boys are growing older with each passing year and they have begun the hunt for presents around the house. I used to keep them in the loft - [An Old Fashioned Christmas with Board Games](https://scottishmum.com/2013/12/an-old-fashioned-christmas-with-board-games/) - Writing about my passion for children to not play games like Grand Theft Auto is something that I am likely to repeat over and over. There seems to be less time made for many children in a family capacity these days, but we've kept up a game tradition as we've taken caravan holidays with our - [Funky Foodies February 2013](https://scottishmum.com/2013/02/funky-foodies-february-201/) - STAR RECIPE WINNER - for January was : The Boy and Me with Slow Cooker Rice Pudding. It made me want to go and try some out. Funky Foodies took a break in December, and is now open for February 2013. Only 10 days to add your recipes, so get clicking. THIS MONTHS FUNKY - [Kids, Money, Boredom and Avarice](https://scottishmum.com/2013/04/kids-money-boredom-and-avarice/) - While we were on holiday this year to Grannies Heilan Hame, it was obvious that lots of kids run to and from the holiday park shop, brandishing the third or fourth £5 or £10 item of the night. Wheedling loudly, some slurring parents giggle at the kids who are coshing the have-nots over the head - [My Easter Week Holiday Camp Experience](https://scottishmum.com/2013/04/my-easter-week-holiday-camp-experience/) - Grannies Heilan Hame from Parkdean, near Dornoch, Scotland With images of gorgeous beaches, sunshine and fun holidays, Parkdeans Grannies Heilan Hame boasts an entertainment schedule that will keep the kids amused and happy for days on end. We've been here before and I have mixed feelings about it, but for the sake of the kids, - [8x8 Project - A crafty piece of art to improve a child's life after a brain tumour.](https://scottishmum.com/2013/02/8x8-project-a-crafty-piece-of-art-to-improve-a-childs-life-after-a-brain-tumour/) - Charity seems to be the order of the week this week. Following on from the bloggers visiting Ghana, I am asking if you could you do a small thing to support the recovery of Children with Brain Tumours. As part of the work done by Camilles Appeal, they have launched a Call to Artists programme to - [10 Tips For Burns Night, any Night on a Budget](https://scottishmum.com/2013/01/10-tips-for-burns-night-any-night-on-a-budget/) - Sponsored Post Haggis, Neeps and Tatties are not just for Burns Night. Burns Nights can be so much fun - there's merriment, celebration, great food, dancing, poetry, singing… and maybe just a dash of whisky, but we don't have to limit it just to the birthday of the bard. If you've had the honour of - [Sponsored: Childrens Swimming Lessons](https://scottishmum.com/2013/11/sponsored-childrens-swimming-lessons/) - As a family, we spent an absolute fortune on swimming lessons when my kids were younger. I found it hard to see any actual difference in their ability to swim after a couple of dozen lessons. I'm not sure if it was the way they were taught that my children found difficult to follow, or - [Sponsored: Keeping Warm Over Winter](https://scottishmum.com/2013/11/sponsored-keeping-warm-over-winter/) - The NHS states "Cold homes have a significant impact on people's health. One of the best ways of keeping yourself well during the winter is to stay warm." Keeping warm can help us cut down on our risk of health problems like cold, flu and even heart problems. Last year, we had almost a - [National Adoption Week 2013](https://scottishmum.com/2013/11/national-adoption-week-2013/) - This week is national adoption week. It's no secret that we adopted 3 boys a decade ago. Looking back on the long and invasive process that often made me feel like I was an errant schoolgirl giving evidence of playground tomfoolery, we nearly fell at the first hurdle. My husband found the intrusion very difficult - [Sponsored: How to Beat the Rise in Energy Bills](https://scottishmum.com/2013/11/sponsored-how-to-beat-the-rise-in-energy-bills/) - Four of the UK’s ‘Big Six’ energy companies have recently announced price rises for 2013/ 14. Effective from this winter, energy companies including British Gas, npower, SSE and ScottishPower will raise their prices, with energy companies EDF Energy and E.On expected to follow in their footsteps. With the cold winter nights ahead of us, this - [Stay At the Holiday Inn - Competition](https://scottishmum.com/2013/11/stay-at-the-holiday-inn-competition/) - Anyone with children will tell you that a well earned break can be enough to give us the rest and relaxation that comes with the hard work that it brings. Spending a weekend away can be enough to give us the welcome break we need, and what better if we could win one and - [Sponsored Review & Giveaway: BullGuard Identity Protection. Ends 20th Dec 2013](https://scottishmum.com/2013/11/sponsored-review-giveaway-bullguard-identity-protection-ends-20th-dec-2013/) - It's interesting that Antivirus company BullGuard had added a Protection Product that not only covers devices, but also covers the people as well. It seems to be a shift over just protecting what we use to get online and moving to also helping keep us safe with our whole persona online. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2fCM9vkjskY&feature=youtu.be The video explains - [Giveaway: Morphy Richards 1.6 Litre Soup Maker - Ends 13th Dec 2013](https://scottishmum.com/2013/11/giveaway-morphy-richards-1-6-litre-soup-maker-ends-13th-dec-2013/) - Earlier this week, I reviewed this Morphy Richards soup maker after trialling it for a few days. I did say that I would be putting one up for a giveaway and here it is. All you have to do to be in with a chance of winning is to complete the steps in the rafflecopter widget and obviously - [Soup Maker: Broccoli, Cauliflower and Carrot Soup Recipe](https://scottishmum.com/2013/11/soup-maker-broccoli-cauliflower-and-carrot-soup-recipe-1-3-litres/) - Looking for quick ways to make soup is easy with a soup maker. After my review, I've decided to keep making different soups to see how they work out. In the co-op, I found these small bags of washed and prepared broccoli, cauliflower and carrots. It was really easy to make these into a - [Baxters Beetroot - Stir Fry and Chocolate Brownies.](https://scottishmum.com/2013/01/baxters-beetroot-challenge-stir-fry-and-chocolate-brownies/) - Baxters sent a gorgeous hamper with a lovely Baxters apron and a selection of Beetroot from their range. Baxters are reasonably local to us, and I've often bought their beetroot as it tends to be a nice sweet vinegary taste. Their products have been in my life as far back as I can remember, so - [Review: Bailey & Quinn Leather Purse from Debenhams](https://scottishmum.com/2013/03/review-bailey-quinn-leather-purse-from-debehnams/) - A big thank you to Debenhams for sending me the lovely Bailey and Quinn Black Leather "Cumbria" Matinee Purse to review. My own purse was pretty much worse for wear and was one of my mums old ones that I borrowed to tide me over until I found a new one. For the last year, I've - [Swimming Lesson Torture](https://scottishmum.com/2013/07/swimming-lesson-torture/) - If there's one thing that has driven me mad over the last few years, it's been the constant competition for places on the council run swimming lessons. You sign up, are allocated a pool which might be a fair distance away at inconvenient times, and then take little cherubs there for years on end while - [Sponsored: Sleeping Comfortably](https://scottishmum.com/2013/07/sponsored-sleeping-comfortably/) - Sleeping is one thing that my boys really struggle with. For middler, I have no idea whether it is because of his special needs or whether he is just a light sleeper who really doesn't need to sleep much at all. I like my sleep, although I never seen to quite get enough of it, - [Toffee Popcorn Cup Cake Recipe - withTruvia (Stevia)](https://scottishmum.com/2013/08/toffee-popcorn-cup-cake-recipe-withtruvia-stevia/) - I've wanted to use Stevia in cooking more for a while, after my successful sorbet recipe, so I've begun by mixing sugar and Truvia half and half for this recipe. I've cut out an egg to counter for the reduced amount of sugar and it worked just perfectly. The cakes had a slightly caramelly taste - [Child's Book Review: Max Goes To School](https://scottishmum.com/2013/09/childs-book-review-max-goes-to-school/) - A new book has been published that provides a lasting tribute to a fantastically courageous schoolboy who lived in Aberdeen. Sadly, Max lost his life at the very young age of 11, which is the same age as my middle special needs child. I didn't know Max, but I can understand that it would be - [The Caffeine Effect](https://scottishmum.com/2013/10/the-caffeine-effect/) - Sweating and with a heavy headache, coming off caffeine was no easy feat. I hadn't realised I was so addicted until I tried to stop drinking diet fizzy drinks. It wasn't the aspartame that people tend to attribute as the biggest problem, as that was still in the diluting juices I fizzed with my soda - [10 Ways To Add Hidden Vegetables and Fruit To Food](https://scottishmum.com/2013/10/10-ways-to-add-hidden-vegetables-and-fruit-to-food/) - Adding vegetables to kids food is something that seems to present a massive challenge to a lot of parents of both young and slightly older children. It's not only my kids I have to persuade to eat more of the good stuff, as the man is known for avoiding much of it where he can. - [Ainsley Harriott Winter Warmer Hamper Review](https://scottishmum.com/2012/12/ainsley-harriott-winter-warmer-hamper-review/) - A huge thank you to Ainsley Harriott for the lovely Winter Warmer hamper that arrived at the Scottish Mum Blog household for review. The pack was just what we need up in the cold in the North East of Scotland. It gets pretty chilly here and standard winter clobber usually involves multiple layers of - [Giveaway - 5 Sets of More Big Machines DVD & Activity Book - ends 15th December 2012](https://scottishmum.com/2012/11/giveaway-5-sets-of-more-big-machines-dvd-activity-book-ends-15th-december-2012/) - Perfect for Christmas presents, and up for a lovely giveaway is 5 sets of More Big Machines (the DVD) and an activity book from Tractor Ted? Follow the rafflecopter instructions on this post to submit your entries and be in with a chance of winning. This Christmas Tractor Ted has lots of new products and - [Guest Post from Cancer Research Uk: Tips for Surviving the Flu Season](https://scottishmum.com/2012/12/guest-post-from-cancer-research-uk-tips-for-surviving-the-flu-season/) - Autumn is officially upon us now – we’ve dug our winter coats out, turned up the heating and said goodbye to our sunnies for a while. And with the new season, it is inevitable that soon enough we shall all be under threat from colds and flu. But how can we prepare for this and - [A Kindle Fire HD up for grabs with SSE - Closes 18th December at 4pm. Get your skates on.](https://scottishmum.com/2012/12/a-kindle-fire-hd-up-for-grabs-with-sse-closes-18th-december-at-4pm-get-your-skates-on/) - A featured competition, brought to you from SSE. As a festive thank you to customers and social media followers, SSE is offering everyone the chance to win a brand new Kindle Fire HD tablet! All you need to do to enter is like the SSE Facebook page and help the Christmas Elves charge their Kindle in - [Review - Ask Her Friends... A Novel Way to Shop](https://scottishmum.com/2012/12/review-ask-her-friends-a-novel-way-to-shop/) - Ask her friends is run by Ben. He has this to say: "Buying a gift for someone special should be one of the most natural things in the world, right? So why when we try to get something for our wife, girlfriend, sister, friend or mum is it such a struggle - with countless hours - [A Homemade Christmas with Crafty Projects and Food Recipes. From Christmas Tree Decorations to Mulled Wine.](https://scottishmum.com/2012/12/a-homemade-christmas-with-crafty-projects-and-food-recipes-from-christmas-tree-decorations-to-mulled-wine/) - A lovely Christmas featured post, brought to you by Simply Be. It's that time of year again when Christmas is nearly upon us. Many of us are getting ready to stock up on luxuries, gifts and decorations. Oranges, nuts and much more sit happily in shop windows, while boxes of cakes, chocolates and figs - [Funky Foodies October & WINNER for September 2012](https://scottishmum.com/2012/10/funky-foodies-october-month-5-winner-for-october-2012/) - STAR RECIPE WINNER - for September is a tie. I let my kids choose their favourites this week, and they pondered for a while, before saying they couldn't decide between Foodie Quine's Cake Pops and Susan Mann's Patatas. In the end, I have to declare it a joint draw, and they both get a mention (and - [Featured Guest Post: 5 Reasons Girls Should Be Playing Sports](https://scottishmum.com/2012/10/featured-guest-post-5-reasons-girls-should-be-playing-sports/) - A featured guest post from Simon, writing for Banana Moon ------------------------------------------------------------------------- We all know playing sports is a great way to get some exercise, and having fun while doing so is an additional benefit. But there is a distinct difference between the number of girls and boys playing sports. Up to 70% of boys participate - [Toucanbox - a review.](https://scottishmum.com/2012/08/toucanbox-a-review/) - We were offered a trial of the ToucanBox. It's a new innovation that allows for a boxed set full of craft activities to be sent to kids. We were sent the Safari Box, and with the kids names put on the front, the experience was directed straight at them from the beginning. The ages are - [Bloggers Saving Lives - Help Us Sponsor Children for #shareniger](https://scottishmum.com/2012/06/bloggers-saving-lives-help-us-sponsor-children-for-shareniger/) - Who says bloggers don't get anything done? Well not us, that's for sure, we do have blogger power. Parent bloggers have raised enough for 6 children so far, and are on the way to 7 children in Niger for the next year. Help us do more and expand the network willing to help. Lots of - [Smart mums get time savings by managing their energy online.](https://scottishmum.com/2012/06/smart-mums-get-time-savings-by-managing-their-energy-online/) - Sponsored Post We mums are great at multi-tasking. I admit, that as a prolific blogger, I tend to go online several times in any one day (Internet service permitting) and at times I'm probably checking email, or messages hourly, which helps me feel more in control of my mad family life. I organise my - [My Gorgeous New Kettle from Palmers Department Store with an Unusual Result](https://scottishmum.com/2012/07/my-gorgeous-new-kettle-from-palmers-department-store/) - A lovely email popped through last week, asking me to take a look at Palmers Department Store. I hadn't heard of it, so I had a pop over to see what they sell. The lovely PR people sent me a gorgeous Morphy Richards Accents Kettle to test the service, which was very good all round. - [Apetina Cheese - Summer Suncatcher Salad, with a Chance to Win a Fabulous Hamper](https://scottishmum.com/2012/06/apetina-cheese-summer-suncatcher-salad-with-a-chance-to-win-a-fabulous-hamper/) - Apetina is a new cheese to me. I was delighted to be asked to make a new salad that would help our family nutrition by keeping the kids happy. Looking for the cheese to buy, I was quite surprised to find they also have gorgeous little snack pots. The lovely looking Apetina Sun - [Country Kids and the Army Cadets](https://scottishmum.com/2012/09/country-kids-and-the-army-cadets/) - I keep meaning to do more of these, but time always seems to find a way to slip past me, and I love Coombe Mill's website, so I've finally managed another Country Kids post. We had a drive through to Huntly and the river Deveron at the weekend, and the kids spent ages skimming - [Country Kids & The New Allotment](https://scottishmum.com/2012/10/country-kids-and-the-new-allotment/) - For Country Kids this week, I thought a picture of the fledgling family allotment would be a good idea. The man's friend has had an allotment for a while, and the one next to his became available. It's not much money a year, so he decided to take the plunge and take on the overgrown - [Project 366 Day 5/365 - Summer Sun](https://scottishmum.com/2012/06/project-3665365/) - Summer Sun - we go to a club every week that we help run. For my special needs child it really is his lifeline out of school. With other children that he can relate, he doesn't have to worry about what is said or done. If another special needs child says something out of turn, - [Coconut and Lime Soup - New Scottish Mum Recipe](https://scottishmum.com/2012/05/coconut-and-lime-soup-new-scottish-mum-recipe/) - I know, I know, you probably all think I have gone absolutely bonkers to make soup and create a recipe with coconut and lime, but it was lovely. So lovely that my kids loved it too. I was completely prepared for them to say they hated it so it was a nice surprise. The littlest - [Gold Medallists Stamps to be issued for our London winners in 2012](https://scottishmum.com/2012/05/gold-medallists-stamps-to-be-issued-for-our-london-winners-in-2012/) - How's this for something unusual and possibly collectable to commemorate our Team GB Gold Medal wins during London 2012? When big events come our way, it's nice to have a little momento to remember them by. I'm not one for collecting trinkets or ornaments, so the stamp initiative appeals to my sense of being appropriate, - [Strawberry Cheesecake with Fresh Scotty Brand Strawberries](https://scottishmum.com/2012/06/strawberry-cheesecake-with-fresh-scotty-brand-strawberries/) - Our delivery of strawberries arrived, and two boxes were eaten almost immediately by children who ate them like sweeties. They were so sweet and juicy that I was reminded of the strawberries we used to get as kids. Our challenge came via this adorable recipe from Scotty Brand for cheesecake pots. You can download the - [Luxury Potato Salad with Scotty Brand Ayrshire New Potatoes](https://scottishmum.com/2012/06/luxury-potato-salad-with-scotty-brand-ayrshire-new-potatoes/) - Our newest delivery from Scotty Brand arrived on Friday. Lovely Scotty Brand Ayrshire new potatoes. I resisted the temptation to throw a couple of bags on for the evening meal over the weekend, and plan to do something different with them over this week. Packs of Ayrshire New Potatoes are run with a fabulous promotion - [Scotty Brand Ayrshire New Potatoes with Sour Cream and Parsley](https://scottishmum.com/2012/07/ayreshirenewpotatoeswithsourcreamandparsley/) - Sometimes, I think we overthink our cooking. What's wrong with some plain and simple boiled new potatoes, served with some sour cream and a topping of parsley like my grandmother would make. This is just so simple to make and the sour cream tastes lovely over the newly cooked spuds. Follow Scotty Brand on Facebook - [Scotty Brand Raspberries in a Raspberry Trifle with Double Cream](https://scottishmum.com/2012/07/scotty-brand-raspberries-in-a-raspberry-trifle-with-double-cream/) - A delivery of Scotty Brand raspberries arrived and the raspberry making machine had to begin turning it's wheel. With some sponge cake left over from another day, I decided to make a lovely little glass of fast and delicious raspberry trifle. The raspberry cheesecake from the Scotty Brand website looks amazing, and I think I - [Win 2 Kids Films as Xmas Stocking Fillers Courtesy of Scotty Brand - Ends 30th November 2012](https://scottishmum.com/2012/11/win-2-kids-films-as-xmas-stocking-fillers-courtesy-of-scotty-brand-ends-30th-november-2012/) - Update: The winner is Rhiannon Alwen @HouseholdHorror Scotty Brand sent me two films to giveaway on my blog. All you have to do is follow the steps below to enter, and on the 30th November, I'll pull a winner out with the random generator in the programme. The films up for grabs are The Incredibles and Ratatouille. - [Carrot and Orange Soup Challenge by Scotty Brand](https://scottishmum.com/2012/04/carrot-and-orange-soup-challenge-by-scotty-brand/) - As a Scotty Brand Blogger, I am loving the boxes of goodies arriving with instructions on how to make something that I haven't made before. This week, the challenge was to make Carrot and Orange soup, which I managed quite easily. I had a couple of packs of carrots torn open and being chopped within - [Carrot Cake with Scotty Brand Carrots](https://scottishmum.com/2012/06/carrot-cake-with-scotty-brand-carrots/) - This is a lush carrot cake and sooo easy to make. I made this using the carrots we were so kindly given from Scotty Brand. I used small loaf tins. Yield - up to 6 small tins. Ingredients 4 oz castor sugar 4 oz demerara or brown sugar 8 oz butter 8 oz self-raising flour, - [We're jinxed.... Just send us the bill....](https://scottishmum.com/2012/05/were-jinxed-just-send-us-the-bill/) - You could be forgiven for thinking I've thrown in the towel and decided to be Miss Misery Guts this week. Looking back on it, it's not going to be all plain sailing to fix, but hey, we're all alive, and I can afford to put food on the table for my kids. So - why - [Guest Recipe: Sloppy Joes Burger by Claire T](https://scottishmum.com/2012/04/guest-recipe-sloppy-joes-burger-by-claire-t/) - This Guest Recipe from Claire, aka ninjakillercat.blogspot.com/ and @needaphone on Twitter sounds amazing. Sadly Claire didn't manage to take a photograph, so that means that I will just have to go and make it so that I can get one. I'm sure my boys will love giving it a try. ---------------------------------- The trick to this recipe is to - [Guest Recipe: Mutta Roast (Egg Roast) by Sheba Promod from Absolute Indian, Cooker School and Spice Boutique](https://scottishmum.com/2012/04/guest-recipe-mutta-roast-egg-roast-by-shema-promod-from-absolute-indian/) - The recipe attached is provided by Sheba Promod of the Absolute Indian, Cooker School and Spice Boutique. The website has a lovely little shop for Indian spices and I was quite surprised to learn that Turmeric is actually known for it's antiseptic properties. -------------------------------------------------------------------- Egg Roast (Mutta Roast) Ingredients (serves 2-3) 3 hard-boiled eggs, - [I Demand a Parent Contract - Full and Binding](https://scottishmum.com/2012/02/i-demand-a-parent-contract-full-and-binding/) - Image: maple / FreeDigitalPhotos.net I had to go shopping for a birthday card this morning. After wandering endlessly looking for one that the little mister might not think was too gauche, or too girly, or too boyfriendy for his gal pal, I eventually found one that looked plain enough to be boring, but sensible enough not - [Questions & Answers Meme - I've been Tagged](https://scottishmum.com/2012/02/questions-answers-meme-ive-been-tagged/) - Image: Stuart Miles / FreeDigitalPhotos.net I can see I am not going to get away with this one. The lovely ladies over at More Than a Mum, Yummy Step Mummy and Fluffy Dumplings have all tagged me so far. The gist of it is this. I have to answer 12 questions from each of them - [Guest Post - Have Fun While Saving in the Home](https://scottishmum.com/2012/02/guest-post-have-fun-while-saving-in-the-home/) - This is a featured guest post which revolves around saving money in the home, and how to go about it. There are some fun elements involved, and getting the whole family to help seems to be a good way of helping everyone appreciate the value of money. --- Have Fun While Saving in the Home Saving - [Internet Safety Day & Online Games for Children](https://scottishmum.com/2012/02/internet-safety-day-online-games-for-children/) - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cV1ZCF4oueQ It was Internet safety day yesterday, and while I didn't get to writing a post about it, I came across something that is aimed at children which worried me. I am pretty vigilant with my boys lives online, which is probably a bit hypocritical considering how large my own online footprint is these days, - [My Dream Home](https://scottishmum.com/2012/02/my-dream-home/) - Featured Post Having boisterous children doesn't do too much to keep our homes in pristine condition and I have a lounge that needs more work than I can shake a stick at. I would love laminate flooring down, with an indestructible 3 x 3 seater combo, alongside some lovely chocolate-brown, or beige curtains for the - [Just Dance Kids on the Wii & Giveaway](https://scottishmum.com/2011/11/just-dance-kids-on-the-wii-giveaway/) - Just Dance Kids by Ubisoft came to us recently through a lovely contact who wanted us to try it out and review the Just Dance for Kids game. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J8bG6DyN4o0 The disc has lots of kids favourites - including : Heads, Shoulders, Knees and Toes Hokey Cokey The Lion Sleeps Tonight Jingle Bells Crocodile Rock Shake - [Sleep is for the Weak](https://scottishmum.com/2011/11/sleep-is-for-the-weak/) - Image: m_bartosch / FreeDigitalPhotos.net After reading Jane's blog yesterday at Northern Mummy with Southern Children about the 7pm bedtime routing beginning to change, I had to laugh as I saw it at about 10pm, while I was trying very hard to ignore the 2 reprobate children who were still wandering the house looking for snacks and - [The A-Z of Me](https://scottishmum.com/2011/10/the-a-z-of-me/) - Thank you to the lovely Mummy Musings for tagging me in this meme. This meme originated from Lauren of The Real Housewife of Suffolk County. So here is the A-Z of me! ANORAK…Do you have a sad side? I remember what people tell me and I seem to be able to tell when they are telling white lies. - [FREE - Blogging Basics - Tips & Tricks E-Course](https://scottishmum.com/2011/10/free-blogging-basics-tips-tricks-e-course/) - Get some FREE TIPS AND TRICKS advice. You will receive your Tips and Tricks via E-mail every 5 days over the course of ten emails. Enjoy your journey along the new road you are taking. Even if you are not a total novice, but are not sure of some of the terms that are used, - [Why is Baby Food so popular?](https://scottishmum.com/2011/08/why-is-baby-food-so-popular/) - Baby food seems to be an emotive subject. I stated my opinion on it on twitter, and I was rapidly unfollowed by 4 mum bloggers. Who knew that baby food mums took it so seriously. Nobody said anything in defence of baby food which was surprising, but there were plenty of us who think that jars (and - [Children and Animals can Die in Vans and Cars](https://scottishmum.com/2011/04/children-and-animals-can-die-in-vans-and-cars/) - It's got to the time of year again when I find myself struggling with a small proportion of my fellow humans as I go out and about. It stresses me to the point of irrationality, and really gets my back up. When it starts to get warmer outside and out pops Mr Sunlight, the animals - [Funky Foodies September (Month 4) & WINNER for August 2012](https://scottishmum.com/2012/09/funky-foodies-september-month-4-winner-for-august-2012/) - STAR RECIPE WINNER - for August 2012 is My Darlings and Me, who was chosen by July Winner, The Vegetarian Casserole Queen. This months winner was a recipe for decadent Caramel Dime Bar Cupcakes. Here's what The Vegetarian Casserole Queen had to say about the Star Recipe for August: "This recipe is packed with - [Guest Tutorial: Make a Colourful Autumn Tree Decoration](https://scottishmum.com/2012/10/guest-tutorial-make-a-colourful-autumn-tree-decoration/) - How to make an Autumn / Winter tree decoration Unfortunately summer has gone, now it is time to celebrate Autumn and the coming of winter. Bring some colour to those grey days with this beautiful fun tree decoration craft activity tutorial by Stacey for Cutfoam, which the kids will love making. The tree shape - [Chicken, Bacon and Beetroot Stir Fry](https://scottishmum.com/2019/03/chicken-bacon-and-beetroot-stir-fry/) - Chicken, Bacon and Beetroot Stirfry 10 Rashers Bacon2 Chicken Breasts (Cut into strips.)4 Eggs600 g Mixed Stir Fry Veg (Beansprouts, pumpkin strips, shredded carrot, green leaf salad, mange tout.)1 Onion (Chopped.)1 Jar Baxters Crinkle Cut Beetroot (Chopped into smaller pieces. Wash, drain and dry the beetroot before adding to a stir fry.) Use your pieces - [Slow Cooked Pulled Pork - in Zero Sugar Fizzy Orange](https://scottishmum.com/2020/04/slow-cooked-pulled-pork-in-zero-sugar-fizzy-orange/) - I had no idea how this would turn out. I wanted to try in coke, but couldn't get any. I couldn't get irn bru either, so zero sugar fizzy orange was all I could buy. I wanted a fruity flavour, but without the excess sweetness that can come from using actual fruit or full sugar - [Benefits of Bell Peppers & Pepper Recipe Suggestions](https://scottishmum.com/2021/03/benefits-of-bell-peppers-pepper-recipe-suggestions/) - Some pepper recipes at the end of this post. When it comes to health, we tend to overlook peppers quite frequently. I have to admit to always having some in the freezer, waiting for when I need them. I remove the seeds, chop and then freeze, which works great for us, but isn't the best - [How to make Breakfast Muffins / Fridge Clearance](https://scottishmum.com/2022/05/breakfast-muffins-fridge-clearance/) - Breakfast Muffins Muffin Trays or cases. 4 Eggs6 Slices Bread1 tsp Chicken Seasoning12 half tsp Sliced Meat / Vegetables / Fridge Leftovers12 half tsp Soft Cheese (Low Fat)Grated Cheese (To Taste) Rip up the bread, squash it and line the bottom of the muffin trays.Take half teaspoon of soft cheese and put it on top - [How To Make Toasted Spelt with Dates & Sun Dried Tomatoes](https://scottishmum.com/2016/03/toasted-spelt-with-dates-and-sun-dried-tomatoes/) - Most of you wouldn't like the toasted spelt in the way that I do. The lovely nutty flavoured wheat is perfect for snacking. I toast mine until it becomes almost a dry nutty consistency as that's what I enjoy. If you prefer yours softer, simply don't roast/toast for long and check the cooking times on - [Soupmaker: How To Make Cream of Carrot and Turmeric Soup](https://scottishmum.com/2020/12/soupmaker-cream-of-carrot-and-turmeric-soup/) - I haven't shared too many recipes lately, so that needs remedied, especially as carrots are so easily come by and so versatile in any form of carrot soup. I have loads of soups on standby, but not always with great images due to the pandemic and timeframes workwise too. We've used turmeric a lot, as - [How To Make Brie & Fig Parcels](https://scottishmum.com/2021/08/brie-fig-parcels-recipe/) - Celebrity chef James Strawbridge has created the following recipe for the UK’s fairest food delivery service 44 Foods. Brie & Fig Parcels by James Strawbridge Ethical, sustainable, and selling high quality British produce only, 44 Foods boasts a range of more than 20 cheeses from across the UK - which are delicious either on their - [How To Quickly Make Chicken Pasanda Recipes](https://scottishmum.com/2024/08/chicken-pasanda-recipe/) - A favourite of mine, and an easy dish to make for all the family. We tend to make this type of dish without very spicy ingredients, so ours is quite a cool and easy to eat for all the family dish. Although it's not recommended to add tomatoes to this dish, I actually often do, - [Retro Prawn Cocktail Recipe](https://scottishmum.com/2013/04/retro-prawn-cocktail-recipe-with-king-prawns-and-healthy-happy-hearts/) - Making a prawn cocktail is something that the man of the house does quite often. We had king prawns to hand and since we are doing the Healthy Hearts campaign with Fish is the Dish, it seemed a good idea to make a King Prawn Cocktail in the old-fashioned way. We don't use Worcester - [Cosmo Aberdeen - All You Can Eat World Buffet Review](https://scottishmum.com/2024/07/cosmo-aberdeen-all-you-can-eat-world-buffet-review/) - We received two free meals from Cosmos to carry out this review. No payment was received and all opinions are my own. Our visit to Cosmo in Aberdeen took place on a wet Thursday in July, so it was a welcome interlude to the day. We went for an evening meal and I also took - [What to do with kids in the school holidays!](https://scottishmum.com/2015/02/what-to-do-with-kids-in-the-school-holidays/) - It sounds a little ominous doesn't it? Christmas has just left the building and we're half way to Easter already, with a wee break in between. We don't get the lovely long break that kids in England get at this time of year, but we make up for it with other holidays. Mid term isn't - [Review: Lego Star Wars - The Empire Strikes Out](https://scottishmum.com/2013/03/review-lego-star-wars-the-empire-strikes-out/) - Thanks to Twentieth Century Fox for this Special Edition review copy of Lego Star Wars -The Empire Strikes Out. Darth Vader LEGO® mini figure unleashes the dark side around London and its landmarks inspired by the DVD, LEGO® Star Wars™: The Empire Strikes Out. (OUT now to buy) Darth Vader has certainly been getting around London recently, - [Building Bonds: How LEGO Brings Families Together](https://scottishmum.com/2024/07/building-bonds-how-lego-brings-families-together/) - In a world dominated by digital interactions and fast-paced routines, finding quality activities that bring families together can feel like a challenge. However, one timeless toy transcends generations and fosters family bonding in unique, engaging ways: LEGO. These colorful, interlocking bricks are more than just a toy; they are a powerful tool for creativity, collaboration, - [How to Make Easy Spaghetti Carbonara - Cheaply - £2.50 - Feed up to 8 People](https://scottishmum.com/2018/08/how-to-make-easy-spaghetti-carbonara-cheaply-2-50-feed-up-to-8-people/) - My special needs boy needs help with making meals, and one day, he'll likely have to try and make his own, and on a budget. For this, I kept the ingredients light, and it was to feed 7 people, although we could easily manage 8 small to medium bowls with these ingredients. The price..... We - [Recipe: Rice and Leek Pilaf with Wild Mushrooms](https://scottishmum.com/2024/07/recipe-rice-and-leek-pilaf-with-wild-mushrooms/) - This pairing of leeks and tasty wild mushrooms with Indica Rice and aged cheese makes this rice and leek pilaf a hearty and filling dish. Quick and easy to make, ideal for a quick supper or a Saturdaylunch with friends. Use highly versatile European Rice, grown in Greece, to ensure qualityand flavour. There are few - [Car That Fits A Wheelchair in the Boot. How Hard Can It Be?](https://scottishmum.com/2015/01/car-that-fits-a-wheelchair-in-the-boot-how-hard-can-it-be/) - Well, we've been at it for nearly a year now, this manipulating an unsteady person anywhere she needs to go. It's been a full year since my mother had the first of two nasty infections, from which she's never fully recovered. What did change, was her brain. Damaged, and with significant vascular changes. Her physical - [How to Set up a Smartphone for Senior Family Members!](https://scottishmum.com/2024/05/how-to-set-up-a-smartphone-for-senior-family-members/) - Mobile phones have become the most used electronic gadget worldwide, not only facilitating wireless communication but also including essential tools such as a contact list, calendar, clock, alarm clock, and calculator. Furthermore, smartphones enhance this utility by providing access to the internet and a plethora of apps for entertainment, online shopping, financial management, among other - [Driving Strong: Empowering Senior Drivers on the Road](https://scottishmum.com/2024/06/driving-strong-empowering-senior-drivers-on-the-road/) - The golden years are a time of reflection, freedom, and exploration. For many senior citizens, driving symbolizes independence and control over their lives. However, the landscape of driving changes as we age, and it's crucial to ensure that our senior drivers are empowered with the tools, skills, and knowledge to keep them safe on the - [Maximising Chilli Growth in Your Greenhouse](https://scottishmum.com/2024/06/maximising-chilli-growth-in-your-greenhouse/) - Choose the right chili seeds for your greenhouse. Picking the right chilli seeds makes a big difference. Look for varieties that thrive in warm, humid conditions. Capsicum species like jalapeno and habanero are great choices for greenhouse growing. These need plenty of light and warmth, exactly what a greenhouse can provide. Start your chilli journey - [A Moveable Feast: How to Plan the Best 'Homemade' Father's Day](https://scottishmum.com/2024/06/a-moveable-feast-how-to-plan-the-best-homemade-fathers-day/) - This piece (below) comes from Scottish food hamper business: Baxters of Scotland. Baxters of Scotland is part of the Baxters Food Group. With summer around the corner, our desire to get outside grows stronger. So, how about instead of going to the same old restaurant or a pub, spending Father’s Day outside with the family? The great - [Everything Mums Need to Know about Bioethanol Fireplaces and Child Safety](https://scottishmum.com/2024/06/everything-mums-need-to-know-about-bioethanol-fireplaces-and-child-safety/) - Bioethanol fireplaces are an increasingly popular choice for modern homes. They offer a clean-burning alternative to traditional fireplaces. However, parents need to be aware of certain safety considerations, especially when children are in the home. Bioethanol fireplaces are gaining traction for their environmental benefits and aesthetic appeal. However, if you are a mum considering this - [Love Carrots by Joining in on National Carrot Awareness Day - 3rd October 2024](https://scottishmum.com/2024/04/love-carrots-by-joining-in-on-national-carrot-awareness-day-3rd-october-2024/) - Celebrating - and safeguarding the future - of the UK-grown carrot is behind the decision to hold a National Carrot Day on 3 October 2024. Chair of the British Carrot Growers Association (BCGA) and York-based carrot farmer Rodger Hobson says: “It’s time to make a bit of noise about the nation’s favourite vegetable - the - [My Energy Crisis and the Eight Arm Angel](https://scottishmum.com/2024/03/my-energy-crisis-and-the-eight-arm-angel/) - The energy issue is a very personal one for all of us. From the start of the rises in 2022, my gas and electric bills tripled. They were as big as my mortgage and completely unacceptable. Honestly, it seems to have never ended. Middle boy is in a good placement as a young adult and - [Catering for Food Allergies this Christmas](https://scottishmum.com/2023/12/catering-for-food-allergies-this-christmas/) - Any food allergy is going to be a worry for children and adults alike over Christmas. The biggest thing that is important nowadays, is asking our guests if there are any allergies when the come to us for food. It's easy to cater for allergy or intolerances if we know what they are. For me, - [How To Buy The Right Car Tyres Near You Before The Christmas Holidays](https://scottishmum.com/2023/12/how-to-buy-the-right-car-tyres-near-you-before-the-christmas-holidays/) - During the festive period, it isn't always possible to obtain the things you need. Many shops are shut over the bank holidays and some places that provide services – such as tyre fitting centres, for example – may be closed for longer periods of time. This can constitute a problem for motorists. Why? Because in - [Regifting at Christmas](https://scottishmum.com/2023/12/regifting-at-christmas/) - What is Regifting? We all know someone who does it. I don't have many friends nowadays, and very little family, so regifting is something that I haven't done, but I have given away gifts that I haven't used, like slippers two sizes smaller than I wear etc, but in the size of the giver..... Anything - [Why Mums Should Invest in ISAs](https://scottishmum.com/2023/11/why-mums-should-invest-in-isas/) - The world of investing can often seem like a complex and daunting landscape, especially for busy mums who are juggling family life with a myriad of other responsibilities. Yet, there's a gem within the financial world that can serve as both a haven for savings and a potential source of income: the Individual Savings Account, - [6 Foods That Aid Restful Sleep](https://scottishmum.com/2017/11/6-foods-that-aid-restful-sleep/) - Collaborative Post We all need our sleep. It’s a fact. Because there’s a lot more to a great night’s sleep than the benefits of beauty, let me tell you! Sleep deprivation can lead to all kinds of physical and mental repercussions, from obesity and heart disease to anxiety and depression. So it should come as - [Soupmaker: Cream of Sweet Potato Soup](https://scottishmum.com/2021/01/soupmaker-cream-of-sweet-potato-soup/) - Sweet potatoes are amazing, as well as being low Glycemic Index and great for me as a diabetic. With several sweet potatoes in the fridge, it seemed sensible to use some up. We need to add a fair bit of flavour to sweet potatoes as using them in this quantity can make for a very - [Cherry and Strawberry Sauce - Great with Cake](https://scottishmum.com/2019/03/cherry-and-strawberry-sauce-great-with-cake/) - Cherry and Strawberry Sauce - Great with Cake 250 g Pitted Cherries250 g Strawberries100 g Caster Sugar100 g Water1 teaspoon Cornflour1 teaspoon Lemon or Lime Juice Put the strawberries, cherries, sugar and water on to boil on a moderate heat and keep stirring. You don't want this to stick to the bottom of the pan.Take - [Hot Day Food](https://scottishmum.com/2022/07/hot-day-food/) - Whew, it's hot out there. Even up here in Scotland, the weather is unusual and I for one, don't want to stand over a stove for hours, or even more than a few minutes. It's perfect weather for salads, sold soups, smoothies and lots more. Always remember to drink plenty water when it's hot outside, - [Easy Air Fryer Conversion Chart For Better Results](https://scottishmum.com/2023/02/easy-air-fryer-conversion-chart-for-better-results/) - The biggest problem we have when cooking in an air fryer, is knowing how to convert traditional recipes to fit with the tiny oven style cooking of air frying. Our air fryers are essentially just mini ovens on steroids, with faster cooking times and the ability to churn out delicious meals at a lower cost - [Breadmaker Recipe: Basic White Loaf](https://scottishmum.com/2014/04/breadmaker-recipe-basic-white-loaf/) - Using a breadmaker is like coming home to warm slippers. Yes, really. It's so handy to have if we run out of shop bread and means I don't have to run out for extra supplies late at night for the next days packed lunches. I have a Panasonic which is fairly aged now but it - [Soup Maker Recipe: Beetroot and Orange Soup Recipe](https://scottishmum.com/2014/11/soup-maker-recipe-beetroot-and-orange-soup-recipe/) - I've struggled for a while to get a beetroot soup that I can cope with. This beetroot and orange soup seems to be my ideal soup for this vegetable. For me, it needs the addition of the citrus to be palatable. Everyone else is different. I also left out the salt and pepper in my - [Imperfect, but tasty and quick scones.](https://scottishmum.com/2015/10/imperfect-but-tasty-and-quick-scones/) - I've never been one for great and fancy dishes, unless there's a good reason, so most of what I make, is quickly thrown together, and my scones are no different. My mother has taken a liking to scones this week, and she fancied one today. The local cafe was shut, so it was out with - [Soup Maker Recipe: Potato and Apple Soup with Nigella Seeds](https://scottishmum.com/2017/10/soup-maker-recipe-potato-and-apple-soup-with-nigella-seeds/) - Potato and Apple are just the right blend of sweet for me, in a soup. Apple goes with just about anything I find, and is an easy fruit add for picky eaters. Soup Maker Recipe: Potato and Apple Soup with Nigella Seeds 260 g Chopped Leek & Onion280 g Peeled and Chopped Potato130 g Peeled - [Diabetic Friendly Sushi!!](https://scottishmum.com/2022/01/diabetic-friendly-sushi/) - Yes, it can be done. When the PR agent for the fast 800, got in touch, I didn't instantly have a look at the content, however, I spotted obesity and type 2 diabetes as I was hitting the delete button, so went back for another look, and felt this was shareable. I've posted the recipe - [Quick and Easy Cake](https://scottishmum.com/2015/04/quick-and-easy-cake/) - Ok, this doesn't look the prettiest or the nicest and it would certainly be a bit of an embarrassment for proper foodie enthusiasts who spend hours and hours moulding and modelling their cakes. I really don't have time for that kind of cooking so mine is always pretty quick and easy. This came from the - [What's in a Fig?](https://scottishmum.com/2015/12/whats-in-a-fig/) - Figs are a relatively new fruit to me. Yes, I know, I've lived a sheltered life, but until quite recently, one had never reached as far as my shopping trolley. I blame my mum..... We tend to buy what our parents bought, and until a couple of years ago, I tended to buy all the - [So, Can Burnt Toast Give You Cancer?](https://scottishmum.com/2017/01/so-can-burnt-toast-give-you-cancer/) - This topic smacks right back to earlier days, and the Edwina Currie scaremongering of eggs. Poor eggs hadn't done anything wrong, and I was pretty sure that slightly charred food was going to be in the same league.... No point in me just blustering though, as without any evidence, our 'gut' feeling isn't ever going - [What is the difference between Swede, Neeps and Turnip](https://scottishmum.com/2020/02/what-is-the-difference-between-swede-neeps-and-turnip/) - In Scotland, anyone over a certain age, will know them as fairly interchangeable, with simply a different colour to set them apart. A comment on an earlier recipe post about cooking this versatile and really tasty vegetable, made me decide to do a post about the fundamental differences and why we Scots tend to refer - [Raw Food Canapé - Sweet and Exotic for New Year](https://scottishmum.com/2015/12/raw-food-canape-sweet-and-exotic-for-new-year/) - Have you ever wanted something sinfully sweet, but don't want to eat sugar, chocolate, cake or ice cream? Then dates might just be for you.... This gorgeous and very simple recipe for a New Year canapé is so simple, and guests will never believe it's all made from good for you food. If you don't tell - [Simple Lemon Chicken Recipe for a Toasted Sandwich / Panini](https://scottishmum.com/2012/07/simple-lemon-chicken-recipe-for-a-toasted-sandwich-panini/) - A simple lemon chicken recipe for using in a toasted sandwich or panini is a lovely, light and zingy taste. The mix also qualifies under quick chicken recipes, and can be sued with rice, potatoes, nan bread or polento to mix up the meal a little. Lemon Chicken Toasted Panini Style Sandwich Quick and easy, we use toasted - [How to make yoghurt at home with a yoghurt maker. Natural Yoghurt with Granola](https://scottishmum.com/2012/07/how-to-make-yoghurt-at-home-with-a-machine-natural-yoghurt-with-granola/) - I thought it was about time to do this since I've talked but not really gone into depth about how to do it on Twitter, or how it works. Making yoghurt at home is easy and really quite simple. I wish I had done it years ago as it would have saved me a small fortune - [Princes Wild Alaskan Pink Salmon Toasted Sandwiches](https://scottishmum.com/2012/07/princes-wild-alaskan-pink-salmon-toasted-sandwiches/) - Princes sent the Scottish Mum household a box of Alaskan salmon with the request to create our own recipe and report back. They also kindly sent us a lovely salmon recipes book, and a couple of our tins of Wild Pink Salmon are going to be made into salmon fish cakes as the recipe in - [Rainier Cherry Loaf Cake](https://scottishmum.com/2012/07/rainier-cherry-loaf-cake/) - The kids wanted to make a cake, so Cherry cake it was. Initially, I thought this was a waste of my lovely (expensive) rainier cherries. Nothing beats those for the look and taste. I only buy them very rarely as a treat, but to keep the kids amused, I sacrificed my lovely fruit. Rainier - [Tattie, Cheese & Onion Rumpledethumps](https://scottishmum.com/2012/07/tattie-cheese-onion-rumpledethumps/) - Traditionally in Scotland, Rumpledethumps recipes tend to be potatoes, turnip and other left over veg form the day before. It can actually be used to use up any leftovers at all, in a similar way to the English Bubble and Squeak Recipe, or the Irish Colcannon. There are a few times that I've wondered what - [Scottish Tablet (crumbly, melt in the mouth toffee) in the microwave.](https://scottishmum.com/2012/07/scottish-tablet-our-version-of-a-crumbly-melt-in-the-mouth-toffee-in-the-microwave/) - Lots of people have asked for a recipe for Scottish tablet, so I think it's about time I posted the simplest version of one online. Home made Scottish tablet is wickedly sinful, but delicious. It's also quite difficult to make, and there are lots and lots of different ways to make it. This version is - [Chicken Sauté with Leek on a Bed of Mashed Potato](https://scottishmum.com/2012/08/chicken-saute-with-leek-on-a-bed-of-mashed-potato/) - There's nothing new about sauté methods to cook our food with. All it means is to cook on a high heat with little oil, but moving the food around so that it doesn't burn while it cooks. We could do it by tossing the pan or moving around the food with an implement. Mashed potatoes - [Slow Cooked Haggis in a Baked Potato & served with Coleslaw](https://scottishmum.com/2012/08/slow-cooked-haggis-in-a-baked-potato-served-with-coleslaw/) - We catch the wee beasties that are the haggis family, on the heathery hills in the highlands of Scotland, where we pluck them mercilessly from their lovely life of gay abandon. Are you buying this? Ok, haggis is a lovely, and slightly spicy delicacy that is often said to the national dish of Scotland. I - [Noodle Chowder Recipe for an Emergency Meal in a Bowl](https://scottishmum.com/2012/08/noodle-chowder-recipe-for-an-emergency-meal-in-a-bowl/) - You could be forgiven for thinking that the picture with frozen veg in it looked like something that should have hit the bin as soon as it emerged from the freezer. A chowder recipe was far from my mind as I raked the freezer for instant food. Coming home from holiday, going shopping was - [Chicken Caesar Salad Recipe, with Tomberries](https://scottishmum.com/2012/08/chicken-caesar-salad-recipe-with-tomberries/) - Caesar salad is a popular dish in my house. The lovely chicken with different dressings and vegetables give it different ways to eat. Anchovies are not popular in this house, so I never use them, and I tend to use the same sort of things to make it. I think there are dozens of caesar - [Coleslaw Salad](https://scottishmum.com/2012/09/coleslaw-salad/) - I don’t think there is really much to say about coleslaw, other than to say it makes a fabulous accompaniment to salads, sandwiches, paninis, baked potatoes and much much more. Coleslaw Salad Perfect as a side dish with most main meals, or to use in a salad. 200 g Carrot (Grated)150 g Cabbage (Shredded into - [Raw Food Cheesecake - Suitable for Vegans](https://scottishmum.com/2012/09/raw-food-cheesecake-suitable-for-vegans/) - Was raw food cheesecake a sensible idea? I'm not really sure to be honest. I'm glad I made it, but a very small slice is enough to eat. I loved the base and the topping, but I can't say the same for the filling. None of the kids liked it, but they are more used - [Greek Chicken Stir Fry with Chilli and Peppercorn Rice](https://scottishmum.com/2012/09/greek-chicken-stir-fry-with-chilli-and-peppercorn-rice/) - A simple and quite easy main meal to make, but be warned, it does have a bit of a kick in the rice. If you are slightly worried by spicy food, simply leave out the chilli and use some herbs or fruit instead. Greek Chicken Stir Fry with Chilli and Peppercorn Rice Rice500 g Basmati - [Slow Cooked Steak & Potato Hotpot](https://scottishmum.com/2012/10/slow-cooked-steak-potato-hotpot/) - For the steak and potato hotpot recipe, I've used Diced Steak (Round Steak) from Aberdeen Angus cattle. We really like the rich meaty taste of the Aberdeen Angus, so I knew this was going to be a great meal before I started out. I didn't add any fancy herbs, spices or taste altering ingredients. I - [Pirate Cup Cakes](https://scottishmum.com/2012/11/pirate-cup-cakes/) - I spotted this lovely box in Sainsburys (I think). I had to buy it, and my eldest decided to don his cheffing apron and make a batch of cakes with them for Halloween. I know it's a bit past Halloween now, but these are great cup cakes for birthday parties. How many little boys could - [Traditional Scottish Stovies with Oatcakes and Beetroot - Slow Cooked & with the Kids Baked Beans to serve.](https://scottishmum.com/2012/12/traditional-scottish-stovies-with-oatcakes-and-beetroot-slow-cooked-with-the-kids-baked-beans-to-serve/) - What better cold weather fare could there be. Stovies used to be made in generations gone by in our ancestors family when it was washing day, or when the nets had to be hauled down to the boats and the women didn't have time to make a big meal for the family. They stayed - [Guest Recipe: Carol's Caribbean Christmas Cake](https://scottishmum.com/2012/12/guest-recipe-carols-caribbean-christmas-cake/) - This is a fabulous Guest Recipe, featured and supported by Country Products. We all want to know how to make fabulous cake when Christmas comes around, and the Caribbean Christmas Cake looks and sounds like a worth cake to try out for special days. I hope you enjoy it. Carol’s Caribbean Christmas Cake 300 ml - [Mashed Potatoes with Chilli Pepper Topping using Scotty Brand Kestrel Potatoes](https://scottishmum.com/2013/01/mashed-potatoes-with-chilli-pepper-topping/) - Scotty Brand sent us some lovely Kestrel potatoes before Christmas. They are fabulous for using for lots of potato things, boiling, baking or roasting. Mashing is just one of the ways that they can be used really well. Potatoes are really quite good for us. I read a lot of negativity around root vegetables, and - [How to make a simple chicken pie with help from the slow cooker.](https://scottishmum.com/2013/01/how-to-make-a-simple-chicken-pie-with-help-from-the-slow-cooker/) - Chicken pie recipes are as many and varied as there are hot dinners in the year. I wanted to have something no fuss, with full flavour, and easy to make. Puff pastry is the one pastry that I cheat with. It is such a faff to work with, that I always have some on standby - [Slow Cooker Rice Pudding Recipe](https://scottishmum.com/2013/02/slow-cooker-rice-pudding-recipe/) - I've always wondered how to make rice pudding in a slow cooker. The slow cooker recipes I had come across all seemed to look very sweet, so I reduced the sugar in mine compared to most people, and I added my favourite cinnamon to the mix. You need to use the proper rice pudding rice - [An alternative Burns Night Supper - Slow cooked mince, neeps and tatties.](https://scottishmum.com/2013/01/an-alternative-burns-night-supper-slow-cooked-mince-neeps-and-tatties/) - In Scotland, we all know it's the birthday of the Bard coming up. If you don't know who - it's Rabbie Burns, and we celebrate it on the 25th January every year, so Friday night will be haggis night in many households around the world. Robert Burns was a poet who is now looked - [Fresh Limeade Recipe](https://scottishmum.com/2013/01/fresh-limeade-recipe/) - Crisp and refreshing. Fresh Limeade Recipe 2.5 Fresh Limes (Quartered)0.5 Fresh Lime (Slicing)1 l Water250 ml Crushed Ice250 g Sugar (or equivalent sweetner (I used Stevia alternative sweetner)) Wash the skin of the limes for the lime juice. We're adding everything to the blender, so don't worry about peeling. Cut the limes into quarters and - [Spinning Chicken - Ekeing out Quality Meat to avoid buying Mechanically Processed Meat - Part 2](https://scottishmum.com/2013/03/spinning-chicken-ekeing-out-quality-meat-to-avoid-buying-mechanically-processed-meat-part-2/) - From the mango chicken I made in my first post about ekeing out quality meat, the second half of the batch went straight into being a Chicken and Mango Tikka Masala. I think the very real after effect of the horsemeat scandal is that we really don't know what's in processed food, even if it - [Fair Trade Banana Milkshake Recipe with added Marshmallow, Maltesers and Strawberries](https://scottishmum.com/2013/03/fair-trade-banana-milkshake-recipe-with-added-marshmallow-maltesers-and-strawberries/) - Littlest came home with the instructions to make a fair trade recipe and have it typed up, cooked at home and to take a photograph to school of them making the said item. Needless to say I had one night warning, so it was off to the local Co-op to see what they had in - [Fresh Mussels in a Sherry and Shallot Broth](https://scottishmum.com/2013/03/fresh-mussels-in-a-sherry-and-shallot-broth-with-healthy-happy-hearts/) - I grew up with fish from an early age as I lived in a fishing community. Up until my own parents generation, all my ancestors were into food farming of one kind or another. On my grandmothers side, it was fishing and on my grandfathers side it was farming, although he left the industry as - [Roasted Stuffed Peppers with ONION, MUSHROOM AND CHEDDAR CHEESE, SERVED WITH QUAILS EGGS AND SALAD](https://scottishmum.com/2013/03/roasted-stuffed-peppers-with-onion-mushroom-and-cheddar-cheese-served-with-quails-eggs-and-salad/) - Filling peppers is a very cheap and tasty way to fill bellies. There is no limit to the amount of combinations that can be filled and roasted. Add some lovely side salad and eggs, and the plate looks lovely. Roasted Stuffed Peppers – Onion, Mushroom and Cheddar Cheese, Served with Quails Eggs and Salad 6 - [Scottish Strawberry Cranachan (Cream Crowdie)](https://scottishmum.com/2013/04/scottish-strawberry-cranachan-cream-crowdie/) - I hadn't made cranachan for years, but a sleepover for a child who wanted something sweet brought this out as I had the ingredients for it. I missed out the whisky on the kids portions, but perhaps I should have added it, as we might have got more sleep !! It's traditional, it's Scottish and - [Breadcrumbed Cod and Chips with Healthy Happy Hearts](https://scottishmum.com/2013/04/breadcrumbed-cod-and-chips-with-healthy-happy-hearts/) - As discussed before, The Healthy Happy Hearts Campaign runs for a 6 weeks spell to introduce families into eating more fish, more regularly. I agreed to be up to the challenge of eating two portions of fish a week with my family for 6 weeks. Fish is the Dish sent us enough fish for the - [Roasted Whole Rainbow Trout Recipe (Lemon & Parsley)](https://scottishmum.com/2013/04/roasted-whole-rainbow-trout-recipe-with-lemon-and-parsley/) - Roasted Rainbow Trout was a mixed bag for us. More commonly known as Baked Trout, it's actually so simple that any recipe can be used for it. All we are doing is taking the rainbow trout and baking it whole in the oven. I flavour with lemon and parsley on top of salt and - [Chicken Mayonnaise Panini with Lettuce](https://scottishmum.com/2013/04/chicken-mayonnaise-panini-with-lettuce/) - One of the pieces of equipment that does live in a drawer in our house and gets used fairly frequently with growing boys is our panini press. We tend to get our chicken from our local butcher Andrew Gordon Butchery and Fine Foods nowadays, so I know it's all good stuff. I buy the lighter - [Mango, Orange, Pineapple, Apple & Passion Fruit Smoothie](https://scottishmum.com/2013/05/mango-orange-pineapple-apple-passion-fruit-smoothie/) - So refreshing and even tempts my little one to drink some goodness in a glass. He likes it to come out a bit like how Costco smoothies do, and I think McDonalds do a fruit smoothie with mango and one with strawberry and banana that seems to be getting more popular with kids nowadays. Orange, - [Fillet Steak, Bag Roasted in Red Wine](https://scottishmum.com/2013/05/fillet-steak-bag-roasted-in-red-wine/) - Using roasting bags is a relatively new find to me. I've usually roasted in tin foil, but have found that roasting in a bag actually gives me a much better texture and taste. It actually doesn't look like much on a plate, but it tasted absolutely heavenly. I'm not quite sure how else I would - [Scottish Raspberry Cranachan (Cream Crowdie)](https://scottishmum.com/2013/05/scottish-raspberry-cranachan-cream-crowdie/) - Raspberry Cranachan is the traditional Scottish dish. It's one that I do like, but not too often with the calorie count in it. It's traditional, it's Scottish and with raspberries it can be quite tart. You can reduce the sweetness of the added sugar by using more fruit and leaving out the honey. Some - [Fresh Home Made Strawberry Ice Cream Recipe](https://scottishmum.com/2013/05/fresh-home-made-strawberry-ice-cream-recipe/) - When I walked into Lidl and spotted their ice-cream maker, I did think about it. I've had ones before that people have given me as presents, but usually such a faff to use that I end up just passing them off to other people. This one was electric and after the huge success I had - [How to Cook Quails Eggs: Hard and Soft Boiled](https://scottishmum.com/2013/06/how-to-cook-quails-eggs-hard-and-soft-boiled/) - Quails eggs are easier to cook than we think, and because they are so small, the cook very fast. They make the perfect sized eggs to go with salads and side dishes and taste creamy and light. Quails Eggs – Soft and Hard Boiled Quails EggsBoiling Water For Hard Boiled Quails Eggs: Place Quails Eggs - [How to make a quick uncooked strawberry sorbet with stevia.](https://scottishmum.com/2013/06/how-to-make-a-quick-uncooked-strawberry-sorbet/) - A sorbet recipe gives a lovely and light ice cream substitute and doesn't show that it only a blend of strawberries and sugar or sweetner. I believe they used to be used to cleanse the palate between courses in earlier centuries, but sorbet now tends to be used in place of ice-cream, or as - [Lactofree Cream Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast – (Bag Roasted)](https://scottishmum.com/2013/06/lactofree-cream-cheese-stuffed-chicken-breast-bag-roasted/) - This is one of the ultimate easy fast foods. Perfect for a lunch or just for a treat. This lactofree cream cheese stuffed chicken breast is make by using a simple roasting bag and then adding some herbs on the top. I think this will be served up next time I have others to cook - [Cinder Toffee, Smothered in Chocolate](https://scottishmum.com/2013/07/cinder-toffee-smothered-in-chocolate/) - Cinder toffee is similar to the Crunchie bar we have in the UK, but also quite different in texture. It's quite messy to make and you really have to be quick with it or it solidifies so quickly that you can't get it out of the pan. Be prepared to work quickly. There is - [Cake In A Cup Recipe, with Flaked Almonds](https://scottishmum.com/2013/07/cake-in-a-cup-recipe-with-flaked-almonds/) - I'm not really a cake hand though my kids and the man love their cakes. I'd rather have a bar of Dairy Milk personally, or maybe a Green & Blacks if I feel flush. Finding simple and easy ways to give the kids a cake led me to trying a cake in a cup a - [Mars Bar Chocolate Crispies Recipe](https://scottishmum.com/2013/07/mars-bar-chocolate-crispies-recipe/) - We made these for our local school fundraiser. Kids take in things we've made and they sell them to each other to reduce the price of a big trip away with their year group. I did worry at first about how these would turn out and they did end up chewy and more for a - [Quick and Easy Mince & Baby Sweetcorn Lasagne](https://scottishmum.com/2013/08/quick-and-easy-mince-baby-sweetcorn-lasagne/) - We don't always have time to make lots of different sauces to finish a popular dish at home. Some great meat from a local butcher can be eked out really well to ensure there's enough food for a whole family. I made this lasagne with good meat and cheap sauce. It's delicious and you can - [Meatballs and Vegetable Stir Fry Recipe](https://scottishmum.com/2013/08/meatballs-and-vegetable-stir-fry-recipe/) - My mum arrived home with a wee pack of Swedish meatballs at the request of my youngest and I had loads of vegetables from the plot to use up, so they were put to good use in a simple vegetable stir fry. I had lots of onions from the plot, with sugar snap peas and - [Mashed Turnips Recipe - The Scottish Way (Neeps / Swedes)](https://scottishmum.com/2013/09/mashed-turnips-recipe-the-scottish-way-neeps-swedes/) - This is how my grandmother made her turnips. I know the supermarkets call them swedes, and in England they may be just that, but up here they're more widely known as neeps or turnips. We grew our own this year in the plot and have been pleasantly surprised at how well they turned out. I - [Stir Fry Garlic Rainbow Vegetables Recipe](https://scottishmum.com/2013/08/stir-fry-garlic-rainbow-vegetables-recipe/) - We use a lot of vegetables in cooking. To see me you wouldn't think so, but we do go through lots of fruit and veg. Garlic rainbow vegetables are popular as they really just involve tossing in anything that's in the fridge with a bit of colour. We had spring onions and runner beans from - [How To Make Rhubarb Crumble](https://scottishmum.com/2013/09/how-to-make-rhubarb-crumble/) - I have not great memories of rhubarb as a child. We had masses of the stuff growing in our garden and I could be sure of endless puddings and being made to eat horribly sour and tasteless desserts. It wasn't until I was an adult I realised that the rhubarb we had wasn't really suitable - [Microwave Lemon Curd Recipe](https://scottishmum.com/2013/09/microwave-lemon-curd-recipe/) - Making recipes easy and quick to do always sits well with me. Toffee is quite hard to make in the microwave, but lemon curd is as easy as saying 1.2.3. To cook lemon curd (lemon cheese) on a stove, you need to do a pan within a pan of water method as the curd - [Sloppy Joes Wrap Recipe with Piedmontese Beef](https://scottishmum.com/2013/09/sloppy-joes-wrap-recipe-with-piedmontese-beef/) - Sloppy Joes food is actually quite simple and easy to make. We don't have to be expert cooks to rustle up something as quick and easy as this. It's more known as Sloppy Joe from America and usually involves some kind of ground beef, vegetables and tomato ketchup type sauce bases. I was lucky - [Basic Sponge Cake Recipe](https://scottishmum.com/2013/09/basic-sponge-cake-recipe/) - Making a sponge cake is the easiest thing there is to bake. Don't let anyone tell you that it's difficult, hard, or in any way something that only bakers can do. The quantities and proportions for a basic cake never change. For the filling on this cake, I don't bother to weigh as butter icing - [Halloween Devils Food Cake Recipe](https://scottishmum.com/2013/10/halloween-devils-food-cake-recipe/) - This recipe is one from Nigela Lawsons website (minus the decoration) that we decided we could make a great Halloween cake with. Nigella carries a monthly cookalong which gives us a recipe to follow and post a picture of. I couldn't resist trying it out for ourselves as it just looked so rich. The kids - [Mini Victoria Sponge Cakes with Buttercream & Jam](https://scottishmum.com/2013/11/mini-victoria-sponge-cakes-with-buttercream-jam/) - To make my small Victoria Sponge cakes, I use the red Pyrex Silicone Muffin Cases from Tesco which do the job brilliantly and are really easy to squish up in my kitchen cupboard. Sometimes the kids don't want a slice of cake, and if I put some into lunch boxes, it's easier when the cakes - [Custard Apple and Dragon Fruit Milkshake Recipe](https://scottishmum.com/2013/11/custard-apple-and-dragon-fruit-milkshake-recipe/) - I'd not tried custard apples before and thought it would be interesting to make something with them. I was a little unprepared for how it actually needed to be prepared, but the taste was very custard/banana cross like. Custard Apples need to sit until they become soft to the touch. In most other fruit, - [Fast Potato and Leek Vegetable Soup Recipe](https://scottishmum.com/2013/11/fast-potato-and-leek-vegetable-soup-recipe/) - Vegetable soup is just that. It can be made from anything and absolutely everything that just happens to live in your fridge or kitchen cupboard. This version was as a result of vegetables that would likely have been thrown out in a day or two so they needed to be used up and I'd no - [Review: Morphy Richards Soup Maker, with Squash Soup](https://scottishmum.com/2013/11/review-morphy-richards-soup-maker-1-6-litre-with-squash-soup-recipe/) - Morphy Richards let us have this Soup Maker to play with before Christmas. It's perfect timing for our household and I have been amazingly surprised just how fast it makes nice thick soup the way we like it. Look out for later this week as I'll be giving one away to my readers just in - [Simple 2 Egg Tomato Omelette Recipe](https://scottishmum.com/2013/12/simple-2-egg-tomato-omelette-recipe/) - Omelettes in this house have arisen due to my mother who has been very ill for the last month or so. There was very little she could eat, but she managed to hold down omelettes. Big omelettes or ones full of cheese and vegetables were just to heavy for her, but this light omelette with - [Scottish Raspberry Trifle Recipe With Jelly Fluff (No Custard)](https://scottishmum.com/2013/12/scottish-raspberry-trifle-recipe-with-jelly-fluff-no-custard/) - I really dislike custard so it's just as well that this old family recipe is free of custard and uses a completely different method of replacing custard with something much more fluffy, light and yummy. My mum is a second world war baby and the pudding dish we use instead of custard has several names. - [Soup Maker Recipe: Cream of Potato and Leek Soup 1.6 Litres](https://scottishmum.com/2014/01/soup-maker-recipe-cream-of-potato-and-leek-soup-1-6-litres/) - Potato and leek soup is so simple to make that it's in the pot and cooking in just a few minutes in the soup maker. I rarely bother with exotic spices and herbs for basic vegetable soups and as this one has cream in it, it isn't suitable for freezing. Leave out the cream and - [Simple Home Made Roast Potatoes Recipe](https://scottishmum.com/2014/01/simple-home-made-roast-potatoes-recipe/) - I like lots of recipes to be quite simple and for my roast potatoes, I usually use this basic method to make mine and sometimes just throw some extra spices or citrussy flavours into it. Everyone has their own roast potatoes recipes so this is just a guide to making the basic potatoes without any - [Chicken and Mushroom Stir Fry](https://scottishmum.com/2014/01/chicken-and-mushroom-stir-fry/) - We eat a lot of stir fries in this house. They're easy and quick to make and fill the kids bellies up well with little effort. Buy your own veggies, or buy some pre-cut and washed vegetables to just throw in the pot. For this stir fry, I'd bought a bowl of stir fry veges - [Soup Maker: Butternut Squash & Sweet Potato Recipe](https://scottishmum.com/2014/01/soup-maker-butternut-squash-sweet-potato-recipe-1-6-litres/) - Buying vegetables that are nearly end dates is a common feature of my shopping now. I get them home, immediately make them into some kind of soup and then I have some frozen goodness in the freezer for whenever it is needed. I would never have actually done that pre soup maker days as the - [Piedmontese Beef - Low Fat Mild Chilli Recipe With Soy Beans (Lower Fat Than Aberdeen Angus and Chicken)](https://scottishmum.com/2014/02/piedmontese-beef-low-fat-mild-chilli-recipe-with-soy-beans-lower-fat-than-aberdeen-angus-and-chicken/) - Not many of you will have heard of Piedmontese Beef. Piedmontese is pure Irish Beef and is lean. If you think you can't eat beef because of a high fat content, you might be pleasantly surprised. Piedmontese beef is bred to be lower in fat than chicken is, and we all tend to associate chicken - [Dry Fried Bananas With Cinnamon Infused Sugar](https://scottishmum.com/2014/02/dry-fried-bananas-with-cinnamon-infused-sugar/) - This dish is perfect for serving as a topping for ice-cream, crumbles and desserts, or you can simply eat it on it's own for a sweet treat with a bit of goodness from the banana thrown in. If you want to find out more about dry frying, have a look here. Dry Fried Bananas With - [Puff Pizza: Chicken and Tomato Pizza Recipe](https://scottishmum.com/2014/02/puff-pizza-chicken-and-tomato-pizza-recipe/) - I love puff pizza as it's just so quick to make compared to bread bases and makes a full meal on it's own. With this version, I simply used Sainsbury's Lighter Puff Pastry, Ready Rolled. It fitted the size of my baking tray perfectly with absolutely no overlap at all. It's just a case of - [Soup Maker: Peppered Mushroom Soup Recipe - 1.6 Litre](https://scottishmum.com/2014/03/soup-maker-peppered-mushroom-soup-recipe-1-6-litre/) - Another soupmaker recipe goodie. Mushrooms are available here all year round and make fabulous soups. The taste is completely different to anything you can buy in a tin. This recipe does make for very thick soup when it cools slightly, so you might want to water it down a bit or use slightly less ingredients - [Soup Maker: Carrot and Ginger Soup Recipe - 1.6 Litre](https://scottishmum.com/2014/03/soup-maker-carrot-and-ginger-soup-recipe-1-6-litre/) - Another soup maker recipe for you, but remember, you can also make this in a pan. Carrots make for a wonderful soup. It really does not matter what is added to the soup, there is almost always going to be an innate sweetness that the carrots lend to the recipe. When serving this up, you - [Maltesers Pancakes Recipe](https://scottishmum.com/2014/03/maltesers-pancakes-recipe/) - These were the idea of my youngest child. Wanting something a little bit different from regular pancakes, he wanted something a bit more sweet added to them. We wandered the aisle of the local co-op to see what we could find and came up with pancakes with Malteser bits in them. They've been more of - [Honey Glazed Mushroom and Onion Topping](https://scottishmum.com/2014/03/honey-glazed-mushroom-and-onion-topping/) - Honey glazed mushroom and onion topping is perfect for on top of soups, toast, potatoes or steaks. We're big fans of as many vegetables we can get into the kids. A teaspoon or two of honey among 4 - 6 people isn't going to do any harm at all in a sensible food intake. Honey - [Roasting Bag: Chicken Breasts in Chicken Tonight Country French White Wine Sauce ...With Cream & Chives](https://scottishmum.com/2014/04/roasting-bag-chicken-breasts-in-chicken-tonight-country-french-white-wine-sauce-with-cream-chives/) - This is a speedy way to have a home cooked meal in a sauce. Roasting bags are one of my favourite things to cook with, as the food really just never goes wrong. I have made this recipe with 1 jar, which just gives the meat and vegetables a very nice coating with this level - [Basic Meringue Recipe - Great For Meringue Nests](https://scottishmum.com/2014/04/basic-meringue-recipe-great-for-meringue-nests/) - Being able to make meringue nests is one of the jobs I wish I had learned years ago. Now that I know how to do it, making all sorts of meringues is now quite easy. For this recipe you can use a piping bag, or if you don't have one, just pop your meringue mix - [Shortcrust Pastry Recipe](https://scottishmum.com/2014/04/shortcrust-pastry-recipe/) - For almost every other pastry, I buy it in the shops as ready make blocks and sheets, but for the shortcrust pastry version, I usually make it as it is just so simple and quick to make. It can also be frozen once it's made for another day, so for example, if you were going - [Macaroni Cheese Recipe](https://scottishmum.com/2014/04/macaroni-cheese-recipe/) - Apologies, the photos are a bit rubbish, I just snapped them with my phone. This recipe is one that I came up with to make macaroni cheese just that little bit better, and with more taste than my older versions. Adding the garlic brings out a fabulously strong taste that is just enough for me - [Recipe: Bag Roasted Rustic Chicken Stew](https://scottishmum.com/2014/05/recipe-bag-roasted-rustic-chicken-stew/) - This is one of the dishes I make when time is failing me badly. It's simply a case of popping all the veg, meat and flavours into a bag, putting it in the oven, and taking out a fully cooked meal an hour or two later. It has a slightly smokey BBQ flavour so be - [OXO Shake & Flavour: Chinese & Garlic Rib Eye Steaks](https://scottishmum.com/2014/05/oxo-shake-flavour-chinese-garlic-rib-eye-steaks/) - Thanks go to OXO for the lovely OXO Shake & Flavour Summer Starter Kit, packed full of summer seasonings for cooking great meals. I took inspiration from one of the included OXO recipe cards and modified it to suit how my family prefers to eat. We're not big on chilli here, so for the OXO - [Soup Maker: Potato and Onion Soup Recipe - 1.6 Litre](https://scottishmum.com/2014/06/soup-maker-potato-and-onion-soup-recipe-1-6-litre-2/) - Another soup maker recipe for you, but remember, you can also make this in a pan. I love potato and onion soup, but my boys find it harder to take with the onion taste. When serving this up, you can serve with a little cream on top, creme fraise, or even some natural yoghurt to - [Garlic and Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms](https://scottishmum.com/2014/06/garlic-and-cheese-stuffed-mushrooms/) - Three of the six of us who live here eat mushrooms regularly. To make a change, I thought some stuffed mushrooms would go down well when we had family round and not much time to prepare anything nutritious, filling, and enough for us all to eat. Cue, the stuffed mushrooms, stuffed just with what I - [Breadmaker Softies Recipe - or Bread Rolls, Baps, Burger Buns, Morning Rolls - Whatever you call them.](https://scottishmum.com/2014/06/breadmaker-softies-recipe-or-bread-rolls-baps-burger-buns-morning-rolls-whatever-you-call-them/) - I think there are very few people who don't like fresh bread at any time. I think it's why the French bread sticks are so popular in shops, as they seem to be baked fresh for your visit. I kept meaning to add these to the website, but just never got round to photographing - [Raspberry Jam Recipe](https://scottishmum.com/2014/07/raspberry-jam-recipe/) - Easy Raspberry Jam Recipe Using Jam Sugar 1 kg Jam Sugar1 kg Raspberries50 g Butter Put raspberries into a thick bottomed pan. This needs little crushing as raspberries break down quite easily.Add sugar to the raspberries.Bring to a slow boil, stirring while the sugar breaks down and melts.Add the butter and allow to rapid boil - [Mixed Pepper Bake with Turkey Bacon](https://scottishmum.com/2014/08/mixed-pepper-bake-with-turkey-bacon/) - This is simple to make and easy to feed the family with some lovely colours. Mixed Pepper Bake 2 Red Peppers2 Yellow Peppers1 Green Pepper3 Small OnionsHandful Green BeansRapeseed Oil400 g Turkey BaconOptionalBarbeque Flavouring Stir fry chopped onions and green beans in a frying pan with some rapeseed oil until they soften. If you plan - [Foraged Wild Blackberry Jam Recipe](https://scottishmum.com/2014/10/foraged-wild-blackberry-jam-recipe/) - At the weekend, two of my boys decided to pick some blackberries. With the instruction of not to pick below waist height, I hope they stuck to it, but if not, we'll never know for sure. I used golden caster sugar for a change for this recipe. The taste and smell while it was cooking - [Soup Maker Recipe: Red Lentil Soup Recipe](https://scottishmum.com/2014/10/soup-maker-red-lentil-soup-recipe/) - Who doesn't love a plate of red lentil soup? Lentils don't agree with me, but I do love them, so every now and then, I actually do make a pot. That's the beauty of the soup maker, as it's just so easy to do. It works especially well for my mother, who decides she wants - [Soup Maker Recipe: Mediterranean Vegetable Soup](https://scottishmum.com/2014/10/soup-maker-chunky-mediterranean-vegetable-soup-recipe/) - This is so easy, that it's almost impossible to get wrong. Simply chop the vegetables, throw in the pot, add stock and a little salt, then off you go. Soup Maker: Chunky Mediterranean Vegetable Soup Recipe 1 teaspoon Salt1 l Chicken or Vegetable Stock (You could add water and a stock pot or two stock - [Soup Maker Recipe: Pumpkin Soup](https://scottishmum.com/2014/10/soup-maker-recipe-pumpkin-soup/) - It's coming up to that time again, when we all wonder what to do with the lovely insides of pumpkins that we put out for Halloween. I'd made my soup and had some lovely pictures, then managed to delete the pen drive, so this is a legally borrowed one that looks identical to how mine - [Soup Maker Recipe: Creamy Tomato Soup (Passata Recipe)](https://scottishmum.com/2014/10/soup-maker-recipe-creamy-tomato-soup-passata-recipe/) - This is a wickedly easy way to make a good tomato soup that doesn't require hours of steaming and peeling tomatoes, or having to sieve your soup by pushing it through a muslin cloth. You could substitute fresh tomatoes for the tinned ones, and not lose any flavour or taste with the recipe. Make it - [Review & Easy Chicken Casserole Recipe: Using Tesco Berndes Cookware, From the Tesco Sticker Promotion](https://scottishmum.com/2014/11/review-easy-chicken-casserole-recipe-using-tesco-berndes-cookware-from-the-tesco-sticker-promotion/) - We gratefully received a Tesco Berndes Cookware cast iron casserole dish, from the Tesco Kitchen range, with the challenge of creating a meal in one pot. I'm familiar with one pot cooking by using my slow cooker, but cooking a meal in the oven as a casserole hasn't been a common occurrence for me. The - [Soup Maker: Scottish Cullen Skink Soup Recipe](https://scottishmum.com/2014/12/soup-maker-scottish-cullen-skink-soup-recipe/) - I've seen lots of different recipes that say they're Cullen Skink, but the traditional way is to use smoked haddock, onions and mashed potatoes. Using the traditional Cullen Skink Recipe requirement of pre cooked and mashed potatoes wasn't an option for the slow cooker, as I wanted to be able to add the potatoes to - [Soup Maker Recipe: Winter Vegetable Soup](https://scottishmum.com/2015/01/soup-maker-recipe-winter-vegetable-soup/) - This usually just involves whatever you have in your vegetable drawer over winter. Don't be too strict with your choice of ingredients, just enjoy the soup when it's ready. This version is red onion, potatoes, leek, turnip and carrot. Soup Maker Recipe: Winter Vegetable Soup Recipe – 1.6 Litres 150 g Red Onions (Sliced)150 g - [Soup Maker Recipe: Carrot and Coriander Soup](https://scottishmum.com/2015/01/soup-maker-recipe-carrot-and-coriander-soup/) - This is a luxurious and tasty, not to mention creamy soup, intended for soupmakers up to 1.6 litres. If you think it may be too rich for you, replace the cream with more boiling water or stock and away you go with the low calorie version. Soup Maker Recipe: Carrot and Coriander Soup 1 teaspoon - [Soup Maker Recipe: Budget Chicken Noodle Soup](https://scottishmum.com/2015/01/soup-maker-recipe-budget-chicken-noodle-soup/) - Have you ever gone to your cupboard when you can't be bothered shopping, or you're in a hurry and no time to get anything, but have some hungry mouths to feed. This recipe is more or less down to the kids loving noodles, but not having any fresh in the house. Feel free to change - [Chicken Enchiladas Recipe](https://scottishmum.com/2015/01/chicken-enchiladas-recipe/) - Chicken enchiladas are a great way of getting some protein into children, by the chicken and cheese, but for me, I wanted to add a little more veg, so the passata was added as a base, and to spoon over the dish. Instead of finger food, it does take a knife and fork to eat - [Soup Maker Recipe: Curried Parsnip and Spring Onion Soup](https://scottishmum.com/2015/01/soup-maker-recipe-curried-parsnip-and-spring-onion-soup-1-6-litre/) - I find parsnips to be a bit blah on their own. Ok, so they're not so bad when they're roasted, but if I'm making soup, I don't have time for that, so the addition of herbs or spices is needed here, for it to be palatable. This version of curried parsnip soup relies on sauteed - [Soup Maker Recipe: Cream of Aubergine and Butter Bean Soup](https://scottishmum.com/2015/01/soup-maker-recipe-cream-of-aubergine-and-butter-bean-soup-egg-plants/) - Keeping Aubergine Soup simple isn't as easy as it looks. The sponge like texture ensures you need to work fast, or it may discolour more quickly than you expect. Leave peeling your Aubergines till last (or Egg Plants for those across the water). For this version, I wanted to make it without much preparation, so - [Soup Maker Recipe: Vegetable and Lentil Soup](https://scottishmum.com/2015/01/soup-maker-recipe-vegetable-and-lentil-soup/) - Soup Maker Vegetable and Lentil Soup 500 g Mixed Vegetables (I used Potatoes, Carrot and Turnip)50 g Lentils1 clove Garlic1 teaspoon Cinnamon Spice1 Stock Pot1 pinch Salt1 pinch Pepper800 ml Vegetable Stock As simple as can be. Just throw all your ingredients into the pot.Set your soup maker to the smooth setting. As this soup - [Soup Maker Recipe: Soya Bean and Onion Soup](https://scottishmum.com/2015/02/soup-maker-recipe-soya-bean-and-onion-soup/) - Soya beans tend to have a very pungent taste to me, so making soup from soya is all about changing the flavour. SOUP MAKER RECIPE: SOYA BEAN & ONION SOUP WITH CARDAMOM Soup Maker Recipe: Soya Bean and Onion Soup 300 g Soya Beans (The Green Endamame Beans)300 g Onions (Finely Sliced)200 g Potatoes (Peeled - [Actifry Recipe: Fried Garlic Mushrooms](https://scottishmum.com/2015/04/actifry-recipe-fried-garlic-mushrooms/) - This is so simple in an Actifry that it's shameful, well fast and easy anyway with no burning from this end either. Actifry Recipe: Garlic Mushrooms 400 g Mushrooms (Washed, Chopped and Dried)2 Teaspoons Rapeseed Oil1 Clove of Garlic (Chopped) Pop your washed, chopped and dried mushrooms and garlic into the fryer.Add your Rapeseed oil.Select - [Soup Maker Recipe: Leek, Potato and Garlic Soup](https://scottishmum.com/2015/04/soup-maker-recipe-leek-potato-and-garlic-soup/) - This is my mum's favourite recipe. She's not usually keen on garlic, so it was a bit of a surprise to find that she likes this. I make it often and freeze some for her lunches. Soup Maker Recipe: Leek, Potato and Garlic Soup 350 g Potatoes (Chopped)350 g Leeks (Chopped)100 g Onion (Finely Chopped)2 - [5 Minute Meal: Prawn Cocktail With Apple and Cucumber](https://scottishmum.com/2015/04/5-minute-meal-prawn-cocktail-with-apple-and-cucumber/) - It doesn't look the most appetising in the image. This was thrown together quickly for my mother's lunch today, and I forgot to pop a little something on the top. Anyway, she was in a hurry with an empty stomach so it was a quick snap before dumping it onto the table and letting her - [No Weigh Rhubarb Crumble Recipe](https://scottishmum.com/2015/05/no-weigh-rhubarb-crumble-recipe/) - The first time I did this, we were in the motor home, but the man had pulled some sticks of rhubarb before we left and thrown them into one of the cupboards. I can't say I was best pleased at the thought of making puddings on holiday, so I wanted something fast, easy and without - [Egg Pizza with Ham & Tomatoes (Low Carb)](https://scottishmum.com/2015/06/egg-pizza-with-ham-tomatoes-low-carb/) - For me, this is just a throw it all in kind of meal. Fast, simple, and fills hungry bellies. It's a favourite of my eldest in the evening if he's peckish. This Egg Pizza is a five minute low carb meal. Yes, it's fairly high in fat, but if you're eating low carbs, then you're - [Soup Maker Recipe: Asparagus and Spring Onion Soup](https://scottishmum.com/2015/06/soup-maker-recipe-asparagus-and-spring-onion-soup/) - I wanted something slightly different for my mum and asparagus is one vegetable I have tended to avoid fairly often, but it's also a good one for us to eat, so I've started experimenting. This came out quite thick, so I added a little milk at the serving stage for her, and she loved it. - [No Weigh Pear Crumble Recipe](https://scottishmum.com/2015/06/no-weigh-pear-crumble-recipe/) - Another no weigh crumble recipe for you. It's the only way to make it. Find my no weight rhubarb crumble recipe here. I'd walked into the local Co-op this week and found lots of bags of marked down pears. I snapped up four bags, although I wasn't quite sure what to do with them, - [Making Burgers & the Quarter Pounder Burger Press](https://scottishmum.com/2015/07/making-burgers-the-quarter-pounder-burger-press/) - If you know where your mince has come from, then you can be sure that it isn't full of additives or processed foods. As a low-carb person these days, I also want to know exactly what is in my food, so that I can count it. I'd been tempted by the Lakeland Burger Press for - [Teriyaki Chicken Kebabs](https://scottishmum.com/2015/07/teriyaki-chicken-kebabs/) - Ok, this is the cheats way to do it. I never said I was mega original, did I? Anyway, these taste lush, and have just the right amount of stickiness, but it does mean changing the recommended use of a standard Maggi, Teriyaki Chicken mix. The Maggi pack, says that it's made with natural herbs - [Strawberry Flapjacks Recipe](https://scottishmum.com/2015/07/strawberry-flapjack-recipe/) - We've had loads of lovely strawberries from the plot this year, and more than we could simply eat as strawberries on their own. I've made two batches of strawberry jam, and this flapjacks recipe was to keep the kids happy with some sweet munchies, and also save a few pennies from shopping for a few - [Nutribullet Recipe: Basic Strawberry and Raspberry Smoothie](https://scottishmum.com/2015/09/nutribullet-recipe-basic-strawberry-and-raspberry-smoothie/) - Nutribullet Recipe: Basic Strawberry and Raspberry Smoothie 100 g Strawberries100 g RaspberriesIce Up to Maximum MarkTop Up With WaterOptional - Add Sweetener Take the green off the strawberry and pop all the ingredients into the nutribullet or high speed blender.Whizz until ingredients are smooth.Enjoy. Nutribullet Recipe - [White Chocolate and Peanut Crispy Tiffin Recipe](https://scottishmum.com/2015/09/white-chocolate-and-peanut-crispy-triffin-recipe/) - This really is a heart attack in a sticky, gooey, sweet treat, but oh boy, is it ever so tasty. My eldest had to make treats for selling at school, and as we didn't have all the traditional ingredients, we had to change a more traditional tiffin style recipe to suit what we did have. - [Nutribullet Recipe: Frozen Summer Berries Smoothie](https://scottishmum.com/2015/09/nutribullet-recipe-frozen-summer-berries-smoothie/) - I absolutely love this smoothie. It's simple, there's always some frozen berries in the freezer and it's simply a case of zapping them in the machine whenever I want a good nutritious breakfast, or even just a snack. Nutribullet Recipe: Frozen Summer Berries Smoothie 150 g Frozen Berries.For this version (my berries were raspberries, blackberries, - [Cauliflower and Cheese Sauce](https://scottishmum.com/2015/09/cauliflower-and-cheese-sauce/) - This is another recipe that was practiced at home for my son's home economics homework. He had intended to make for just two people, but as the recipe he downloaded wasn't terribly good, I got him to make a version that would be easier to cope with. If you're comfortable with white sauce, make it - [Apple & Cucumber Jelly Jam](https://scottishmum.com/2015/09/apple-cucumber-jelly-jam/) - With an over abundance of cucumbers from the plot, finding things to make with it, is more difficult than it looks. We also had a bag full of small apples from the communal apple trees down there, so I made a lovely version of jam, that is more like a jelly version, as it was - [Nutribullet / Blender Recipe: Mango, Blueberry, Strawberry and Pecan Half Smoothie](https://scottishmum.com/2015/09/nutribullet-blender-recipe-mango-blueberry-strawberry-and-pecan-half-smoothie/) - The mangos make this a lovely and sweet recipe. It's more than enough to fill me up for breakfast and often just as a snack if I'm peckish late in the evening. This is one of my all time favourites. Carbs in the mangos are high, but for this recipe, I forgive them, considering - [Curried Welsh Lamb Stew, Served with Chips - For #NationalCurryWeek](https://scottishmum.com/2015/10/curried-lamb-stew-served-with-chips-for-nationalcurryweek/) - The week beginning Monday 12th, until the 18th October is National Curry Week. Even as far up North as we are, we do appreciate a good curry, but in our house, curries tend to be more flavoursome than spicy. My personal favourite is a korma, which has possibly influenced the taste buds of the not - [Pickled Beetroot Preserve & Foraging Fox Beetroot Ketchup](https://scottishmum.com/2015/10/pickled-beetroot-preserve-foraging-fox-beetroot-ketchup/) - We have to admit to being beetroot fans around here, and I'm going to talk about two different beetrooty things today. 1 - The Beetroot Ketchup sample sent by the Foraging Fox. 2 - What I've done with the beetroot from our plot this year. 1 - Beetroot Ketchup Foraging Fox sent us some beetroot ketchup - [Nutribullet Recipe: Carrot and Blackberry Smoothie](https://scottishmum.com/2015/10/nutribullet-recipe-carrot-and-blackberry-smoothie/) - Wickedly sumptuous, I added a little xylitol to combat the bitter taste of the blackberries we picked from the plot. I did wonder if the carrots were over the top, but they mixed well. Nutribullet Recipe: Carrot and Blackberry Smoothie 100 g Blackberries50 g Shredded Carrot50 g Strawberries (tops still on)1 Teaspoon Xylitol (or sweetener)400 - [How to make unsweetened pecan milk.](https://scottishmum.com/2015/10/how-to-make-unsweetened-pecan-milk/) - Ok, I have to admit being a little ott about unsweetened almond milk. I seem to use it for almost everything that needs milk, including smoothies, soups and much more. The fact that it's so low-calorie is what does it for me, but I wanted to try making some nut milks, to see how they do. - [Nutribullet Recipe: Raw Cacao, Strawberry, Blueberry & Fig Recipe](https://scottishmum.com/2015/11/nutribullet-recipe-raw-cacao-strawberry-blueberry-fig-recipe/) - I've always wanted to get some blueberries into me, but I have never been able to stomach the taste. To me, they taste like plastic. They're low in fat, but have plenty fibre, to help stop us being hungry all morning. This is a great morning recipe for me. It also helps with consuming natural - [Cheesy Meatball Muffins Recipe](https://scottishmum.com/2015/11/cheesy-meatball-muffins-recipe/) - This was much more successful than I ever could have imagined as far as the kids were concerned. All you need is some mince and cheese, then pop them in the oven for a luxurious treat. If you add in some more veg, I suspect these might be a good way to hide some nutritious - [Soupmaker Recipe & Pot: Vegetarian Haggis Soup](https://scottishmum.com/2015/12/vegetarian-haggis-soup-in-a-soupmaker-recipe/) - I do like the taste of vegetarian haggis and my mother has managed to decide she's now off meat for life (apart from bacon sarnies). I didn't want to make different soups for us all, so this is just a lovely little mish mash that came out tasting great. Give it a go, and add - [Luxurious Date Butter / Date Caramel](https://scottishmum.com/2016/01/luxurious-date-butter-date-caramel/) - As well as eating a ton of dates these days, I'm using them in cooking now, as a way to get the sweet portion of my sweet tooth satisfied. I make a sort of ice-cream with whipped quark and crème fraîche, but needed something sweet to go with it, instead of simply adding sweeteners. My - [Airfryer - Actifry Recipe - Scrambled Eggs with Cheese & Tomato](https://scottishmum.com/2016/01/airfryer-actifry-recipe-scrambled-eggs-with-cheese-tomato/) - Actifry Recipe - Scrambled Eggs with Cheese & Tomato 4 Large Eggs.200 m Milk.50 g Grated Cheese.8 Cherry Tomatoes (cut in half.)Salt and Pepper to Taste.Oil Spray – I used the one cal buttery version. Ensure the air fryer, and especially the paddle, has a light covering of oil spray. Add a very small amount - [Home Made Burgers with Red & Orange Peppers](https://scottishmum.com/2016/02/home-made-burgers-with-red-orange-peppers/) - Making our own burgers is incredibly easy, and we then know what's actually in them. I don't expect to have to mince slabs of meat, but I do like getting bags of mince, that I can use to make my own burgers, meatballs and more, as it's just so easy to do, and saves me - [Actifry Recipe: Garlic Infused Mixed Potatoes](https://scottishmum.com/2016/02/actifry-recipe-garlic-infused-mixed-potatoes/) - This was so simple, that I wish I'd done it long ago. I do love sweet potatoes, and adding them to my Actifry was a no brainer. Actifry Recipe: Garlic Infused Mixed Potatoes 500 g Baby Potatoes300 g Sweet Potatoes2 Actifry Spoons of Garlic Infused Rapeseed Oil.Chopped ParsleySalt3 g Bullion Powder Leave the skin on - [Soup Maker Recipe: Asparagus Tips with Aubergine](https://scottishmum.com/2016/03/soup-maker-recipe-asparagus-tips-with-aubergine/) - I haven't added a soup maker recipe to this blog for a while, so it's long overdue. I didn't sauté any of the ingredients on this soup, but if you prefer that, give the onion a quick fry with some butter or rapeseed oil. I find that olive oil reaches smoke point too quickly for - [Soupmaker Recipe: Sweet Spud and Chilli Tomato](https://scottishmum.com/2016/04/soupmaker-recipe-sweet-spud-and-chilli-tomato/) - This is a veritable taste bud smacking flavour. You must like the sweetness of sweet potato, and the chilli flavour that tempers it. If you just want a very sweet soup, simply leave out the chilli, or add some cream to make it even richer, but I suspect that would be too much for me. - [High Protein Chocolate Pudding](https://scottishmum.com/2016/04/high-protein-chocolate-pudding/) - Hey you all, protein is something that many of us just don't get enough of. As a newbie runner, upping my protein count is important, to make sure I have the ability to repair the damage done to my muscles as I learn to run. I wanted something lovely and puddingy, but not always a - [Recipe: Slow Cooked Round Steak with Mixed Sweet Potatoes](https://scottishmum.com/2016/05/slow-cooked-round-steak-with-mixed-sweet-potatoes/) - For however it happens, sweet potatoes don't send my blood sugar as high a regular potatoes. It's a real shame, as we grow potatoes on our plot and have some to use year round. We do eat a lot of potatoes though, and many go into soups. Sweet potatoes aren't an easy grow, especially this - [Recipe: High Protein Frozen Mango Yoghurt](https://scottishmum.com/2016/05/recipe-high-protein-frozen-mango-yoghurt/) - This is something I tend to make quite frequently, with differing amounts of fruit, to change the taste. I'll add others as I get time to. I quite often forget to take pictures, which I should get better at. It's fab for adding protein, especially where it's missing in anyone's diet. I can't persuade my - [Soup Maker Recipe: Cream of Sweet Potato and Tomato Soup](https://scottishmum.com/2016/06/soup-maker-recipe-cream-of-sweet-potato-and-tomato-soup/) - Cream of Sweet Potato and Tomato Soup This works fine for me, but you know your own soup makers and what the limits will be. Change the amount of ingredients to suit your machine. Check your instructions if you are not sure. 350 g Sweet Potato (peeled and chopped.)200 g Onion (peeled and chopped.)100 ml - [Snack Recipe: Stuffed Mushroom with Protein Cheese and Sun Dried Tomatoes](https://scottishmum.com/2016/07/snack-recipe-stuffed-mushroom-with-protein-cheese-and-sun-dried-tomatoes/) - We were sent a pack of Protein Cheese to try, and I first used it to make a lovely wee snack, which isn't high in calories, nor in fat or carbs, which is always good for us diabetics, or for those watching our weight, as well as just wanting something a little different. Protein Cheese, - [Quick and Easy Millionaire Shortbread Recipe](https://scottishmum.com/2016/09/quick-and-easy-millionaire-shortbread-recipe/) - This came about due to a child who opened a tin of caramel, just to put a couple of spoons on his ice-cream. He then added some to a piece of cake, heated it in the microwave, and proceeded to sip it with a spoon. In order to ensure he didn't finish the entire tin - [Operation Clear Out the Cupboards Soup Recipe](https://scottishmum.com/2016/09/operation-clear-out-the-cupboards-soup-recipe/) - One thing about taking an unplanned for holiday, is that it impacts on the budget, so this week, I've been carrying out operation clear out the cupboards, and the fridge and freezer. It's a great excuse to use up all those things lurking in the back and might never see the light of day, until - [Budget Meals: Peas Pudding Recipe](https://scottishmum.com/2016/09/budget-meals-peas-pudding-recipe/) - A lot of us are watching the pennies right now, so making meals that are both healthy and filling can be challenging on a budget. With few ingredients, and whatever is in your cupboard, adding things to split green peas is fairly simple. This makes a fairly large batch, so unless your diners don't eat - [Soup Maker Recipe: Cream of Butternut Squash Soup](https://scottishmum.com/2016/10/soup-maker-recipe-cream-of-butternut-squash-soup/) - Soup Maker Recipe: Cream of Butternut Squash Soup 400 g Butternut Squash.150 g Leek (chopped.)150 g Onion (chopped.)200 ml Milk.2 Vegetable Stock Cubes.Salt & Pepper.1 Teaspoon of Ginger spice.Water. When you chop your butternut squash, leave the skin on. It makes the soup extra creamy in texture, but chop your pieces quite small, as butternut - [Pressure Cooker Soup: Broccoli, Sweetcorn & Asparagus Spears](https://scottishmum.com/2016/10/pressure-cooker-soup-broccoli-sweetcorn-asparagus-spears/) - It had to happen, didn't it? Soup in a Pressure Cooker from me.... This is an Instant Pot Recipe, or the 7 in 1 Pressure Cookers that do it all for us. I imagine most pressure cookers work the same, and this is the first soup recipe in my brand spanking new machine, bought this - [Soup Maker Recipe: Cream of Peppercorn Pumpkin Soup](https://scottishmum.com/2016/10/soup-maker-recipe-cream-of-peppercorn-pumpkin-soup/) - Did you know raw pumpkin seeds are actually good for you? I only found out when I was looking for more ways to add protein into my life. I've tended to mostly roast my seeds before eating, but it's not necessary at all. Straight from the pumpkin, these little pale seeds also have iron, potassium, - [Soupmaker Recipe: Cream of Pumpkin Soup](https://scottishmum.com/2016/11/soupmaker-recipe-cream-of-pumpkin-soup/) - Better Quality Video is the second one, but it is longer. [fbvideo link="https://www.facebook.com/ScottishMumBlog/videos/1215979371801342/" width="500" height="400" onlyvideo="1"] [fbvideo link="https://www.facebook.com/ScottishMumBlog/videos/1218050738260872/" width="500" height="400" onlyvideo="1"] Cream of Pumpkin Soup Pumpkin Soup isn't just for Halloween. Enjoy it any time of the year. 400 g Pumpkin (chopped.)100 g Carrot (chopped.)200 g Onion (chopped.)2 Vegetable Stock Cubes.200 ml Milk.1 Garlic clove - [High Protein, High Energy Balls](https://scottishmum.com/2016/11/high-protein-high-energy-balls/) - Making things ourselves, especially when it comes to protein bars is a no brainer. Otherwise, they cost a fortune in the shops and your hard earned cash can disappear pretty fast. Make these higher protein, by reducing the coconut flour and increasing the protein powder, or adding a little peanut butter. I prefer the - [High Protein Sweet Stuff](https://scottishmum.com/2016/11/high-protein-sweet-stuff/) - This came about from sheer desperation to get lots of protein in, with only 450 ish calories left for the day. 64g Protein for 487 Calories. Eat it at once, or split into two, for two high protein desserts. Lush. [fbvideo link="https://www.facebook.com/ScottishMumBlog/videos/1218274918238454/" width="500" height="400" onlyvideo="1"] High Protein Sweet Stuff 200 g Skyr (plain.)200 g Skyr - [Soup Maker Recipe: Christmassy Leek and Potato Soup](https://scottishmum.com/2016/12/soup-maker-recipe-christmassy-leek-and-potato-soup/) - Sometimes, it's nice to have something warming to eat when it's cold outside, and soup is always one of my go to things to make for anyone. This recipe is nice and simple, and gives a slight twist on the traditional leek and potato soup... Enjoy. Of course, you don't need a soupmaker to make - [Christmas Sticky Pudding with Chocolate, Coconut, Apple & Cinnamon](https://scottishmum.com/2016/12/christmas-sticky-pudding-with-chocolate-coconut-apple-and-cinnamon/) - This isn't the version I'll be using for Christmas Day, as I'll be using the regular old full fat, toffee sauce version, but I wanted to try something different and see how it turned out, although on Christmas Day, we will have the apple and cinnamon added to the recipe here. This came about, as - [Pumpkin, Carrot and Leek Soup](https://scottishmum.com/2017/01/pumpkin-carrot-and-leek-soup/) - I made this in my pressure cooker, but it could easily be made in a pot. In a pot, you will have to remember to stir frequently, and add more fluid, should some boil off in the process. The proportions are too large for a soupmaker, and I had many mouths to feed that day, - [Simple Fruit Pasty Recipe](https://scottishmum.com/2017/01/simple-fruit-pasty-recipe/) - Have you ever wondered what to do with those leftover bits from tins of fruit? How about this... [fbvideo link="https://www.facebook.com/ScottishMumBlog/videos/1279362062129739/" width="500" height="400" onlyvideo="1"] Fruit Pasty Half Tin Apples (or 200g)1-2 Pear Halves2 Peach Halves320 g Puff Pastry or 1 Puff Pastry Sheet1 Egg8 g Almond Butter2 Tablespoons Coconut Sugar Chop your fruit into smaller pieces, - [Very High Protein Pork and Pear Stir Fry - Approx 40g Protein Per Serving](https://scottishmum.com/2017/02/very-high-protein-pork-and-pear-stir-fry-approx-40g-protein-per-serving/) - I made this in my Instant Pot 7 in 1, but you can make this by using a good old wok or stir fry too, you'd just need to adjust the times you cook the meat for, to ensure it is fully cooked throughout. Very High Protein Pork and Pear Stir Fry A whole meal - [Thai Fishcakes with Chilli Dipping Sauce](https://scottishmum.com/2017/03/thai-fishcakes-with-chilli-dipping-sauce/) - Guest Recipe. When it comes to healthy eating, home cooking is a great place to start. But when the reality of all that dicing, slicing, washing, chopping and prepping to make holier-than-thou fresh nutritious meals dawns, it’s easy to lose your way! Whether you’re going gluten-free, paleo, low-carb or FODMAP, the Very Lazy range of - [Soup Maker Recipe: Root Veg with Mushroom Soup](https://scottishmum.com/2017/10/soup-maker-recipe-root-veg-with-mushroom-soup/) - Mixing mushroom with any soup is always a hit or miss. The colour of this soup was more muddy than it looks in the picture. The colour seems to be very photogenic with a flash gun, but although muddy colour due to the mixture of green and orange, it was pretty tasty. Soup Maker Recipe: - [High Protein Strawberry and Avocado Puree](https://scottishmum.com/2018/07/high-protein-strawberry-and-avocado-puree/) - High Protein Strawberry and Avocado Puree is suitable for those choosing a high protein diet, or the elderly where there is a need to get protein rich food in their diet, and where they cannot chew or swallow solid food. With 12g of carbs in each 120g recipe, there is also 163 calories per portion, - [Pressure Cooker: Tomato, Cucumber and Rice Soup](https://scottishmum.com/2018/07/pressure-cooker-tomato-cucumber-and-rice-soup/) - Choose to have your soup chunky or smooth. It's all up to you. Pressure Cooker: Tomato, Cucumber and Rice Soup 200 g Leek (chopped)100 g Rice (uncooked and washed)300 g Cucumber (peeled and chopped)2 Teaspoons SaltTin Butter Beans (drained)2 Tins Tomatoes1 Teaspoon Ground Ginger2 Chicken Stock Pots or Stock Cubes2 Tablespoons Rapeseed or Vegetable Oil1 - [How to make mushy peas at home.](https://scottishmum.com/2018/08/how-to-make-mushy-peas-at-home/) - I used to buy mushy peas. Tins of them, then one day I had none and the teens were moaning, I decided to have a go at making my own. Marrowfat peas make the closest thing to the tins you buy in the shops, but marrowfat peas are not something I tend to have on - [Instant Pot Baked Potatoes - Pressure Cooker Baked Potatoes](https://scottishmum.com/2020/02/instant-pot-baked-potatoes-pressure-cooker-baked-potatoes/) - I used to use my slow cooker for baked potatoes, and a few times, I also used an air fryer, but that wasn't as successful. I suspect that would have worked better with tin foil. My new favourite go to for baked potatoes, to save me waiting three hours for the oven, or four in - [Crepe Style Pancakes](https://scottishmum.com/2020/04/crepe-style-pancakes/) - This came about due to the lack of baking powder and plain flour in the Scottish Mum Household. The boys wanted pancakes, but I knew I wouldn't be able to make them rise like fluffy pancakes, so I bit the bullet and went for self raising flour ones. They are more of a consistency like - [What is Simple Candle Meditation?](https://scottishmum.com/2020/12/what-is-simple-candle-meditation/) - Hope you are all well. I do my own version of simple meditation if there are a few minutes to spare. With the Coronavirus restrictions around, and so few opportunities to socialise or even work properly, I've been doing a little dabbling and learning, to help ease how I cope with the world. With work - [7 Things to Consider Before Getting Your Child a Puppy](https://scottishmum.com/2020/07/7-things-to-consider-before-getting-your-child-a-puppy/) - Collaborative Post This was my lovely dog, Holly, a gorgeous yellow lab that shared our family for 14 years. She went blind at the age of 7, and still lived a full life with lots of exercise. She loved swimming, and lived for her lead coming out of the cupboard. With the long lazy shut - [Babybel Nuggets Recipe](https://scottishmum.com/2020/05/babybel-nuggets-recipe/) - A little lockdown favourite that my son makes. Cheese is such a versatile ingredient to use in cooking of all kinds, and Babybel adapts well as a replacement for meat in this type of fast food dish. He loves cheese, and he loves fried food. He had a go at these, just because he could. - [How are you all in the loo roll crisis?](https://scottishmum.com/2020/03/how-are-you-all-in-the-loo-roll-crisis/) - I just wanted to put up a post due to all the messages, e-mails and news around the dreaded Coronavirus, or COVID-19. I know with my teens that information can be too much, and at other times, just not enough to keep them sensible. I'm not going to go into any depth on the things - [10 Quick and Easy Dishes for the Busy Festive Season](https://scottishmum.com/2019/12/10-quick-and-easy-dishes-for-the-busy-festive-season/) - This time of year is always difficult to manage juggling kids, work, elders, shopping, leisure time, chores and so much more. I find myself running around like a headless chicken trying to sort everything out. I get home after 5, then the thought of food isn't always the first thing on my mind, but there - [Coco Mango Chicken Recipe](https://scottishmum.com/2012/05/coco-mango-chicken-visit-to-aberdeen-butcher-andrew-gordon-butchery-and-fine-foods-store-who-inspire-home-cooking-from-chattan-place/) - For my lovely meal, six of us ate from the recipe, and I have three strapping lads to feed, as well as a man who likes a good bit of animal protein. Ingredients 800 - 900g chicken breast / fillet. 6 heaped tablespoons mango chutney (I buy Premium Mango Chutney in huge jars from Costco). Rapeseed - [Beef Rostis using Leftovers](https://scottishmum.com/2016/02/win-a-slow-cooker-with-love-food-hate-waste-beef-rostis-using-leftovers/) - In collaboration with Love Food Hate Waste. These are made from leftovers. Who wouldn't want to know how to make something so delicious, and economical, while keeping lots of food waste out of our bins? You could even win a Slow Cooker with your own tips. Read on to find out more. Ok, so what's - [Creme Egg Brownies - With A Surprise Middle](https://scottishmum.com/2015/03/creme-egg-brownies-with-a-surprise-middle/) - Cadbury is my favourite chocolate, but making a cadburys cake hadn't come into my kitchen until now. For an Easter recipe, it seems a good idea to use one of the things that we only get for a few months each year, the renowned Cadburys Creme Egg. The kids wanted a tray bake to take - [7 Day Healthy Food Challenge](https://scottishmum.com/2019/01/7-day-healthy-food-challenge/) - We're heading to the end of January, and most of us will have let our New Year resolutions fall by the wayside already. Instead of feeling downcast and disappointed by letting good work go to waste, it can sometimes be easier to set ourselves small goals and tasks to perform, so that they are easier - [Easy Peasy Jelly Squeezies](https://scottishmum.com/2018/09/easy-peasy-jelly-squeezies/) - Looking for a way to get more water into kids or adults with dementia who have an aversion to drinking from a cup? Sneaking fluid in through food is a great way to do things. These are so easy, and can be calorific or zero calorie, depending on the type of jelly you use. These - [3 Essentials for Your Newborn’s First Trip to the Beach](https://scottishmum.com/2018/09/3-essentials-for-your-newborns-first-trip-to-the-beach/) - Travelling with a newborn baby can be challenging. Aside from the hassle of carrying all their equipment, you need to plan their feeds and nap times around your schedule. And if you have older kids to deal with too, you may find leaving the house to be stressful at times. (Collaborative Post) The good news - [Creative Ways To Choose The Unique Gifts For Him](https://scottishmum.com/2018/08/creative-ways-to-choose-the-unique-gifts-for-him/) - (Collaborative Post) Gifts play an essential role to give some unforgettable moments to the recipients. It is the perfect way of strengthening the bond of love and care with close ones. We all live in a beautiful relationship with our siblings and parents in the family. Everyone finds time for the ceremonial occasions of each - [Fun Family Activities For Days Off In Scotland](https://scottishmum.com/2018/08/fun-family-activities-for-days-off-in-scotland/) - Finding activities for your family to do on your days off can be quite difficult when you’ve lived in the same place for a while. If you live in Scotland or are planning on visiting soon, then you’ll find that there are a lot of outdoor activities that you can take part in. In this - [How to make the ultimate chip butty.](https://scottishmum.com/2018/07/how-to-make-the-ultimate-chip-butty/) - Collaborative Post Winner winner, chip-butty dinner “Daaad! What’s for dinner?”, the kids yell from the other room. It’s been a long, busy day and you’re just not up to cooking a full-on meal. You’ve no energy left. You’re up for something with minimal effort; a good measure of comfort food. Pizza? Nah. Stir fry? Nah. - [Raw Strawberry and Banana Ice Cream Recipe](https://scottishmum.com/2018/05/raw-strawberry-and-banana-ice-cream-recipe/) - Note: This post contains an affiliate link. These are marked by an asterisk next to them. If you buy anything from using these links, I will receive an ambassador commission, which lets me keep this blog running. The price is not altered for you in any way. As a Froothie Ambassador, I used my new - [Blender Tomato & Sweetcorn Soup](https://scottishmum.com/2018/06/blender-tomato-sweetcorn-soup/) - This tomato soup is speedy, fills all those tomato soup boxes, and with only a few minutes in the blender, there is a piping hot bowl of soup. To make raw soup, it does need food that is suitable for blending and not leaving a bitter aftertaste in the way that the onion family does, - [The Single Use Plastic Debate - Are We Killing Our Planet?](https://scottishmum.com/2018/02/the-single-use-plastic-debate-are-we-killing-our-planet/) - There's lots of news going around about single use plastic and how we need to protect the environment and our oceans. I totally agree with that, although I doubt anything we do will counter the plastic coming into the oceans and landfill from China and India, but still, every little helps. Are we killing our - [Froothie Optimum VAC2 Air Vacuum Blender Review](https://scottishmum.com/2018/05/froothie-optimum-vac2-air-vacuum-blender-review/) - As a new ambassador for Froothie UK, I've had the lovely opportunity to try out one of the newest gadgets in their range. I'm letting you all know about the fabulous Optimum Vac 2 Air Vacuum Blender. I know, some of you will have some questions as vacuum blending isn't a term that is commonly - [It's not just babies who get meningitis..... #24youhavethepower](https://scottishmum.com/2018/03/its-not-just-babies-who-get-meningitis-24youhavethepower/) - Sponsored by Pfizer When my boys were little, and they started running a fever, one thing always popped to the front of my mind when they got to that unresponsive state that young children can go into while they're ill. With a glass, I'd stand there pressing it lightly on anything that resembled a spot, - [Authentic Massaman Thai Curry Recipe from Chef Sanguan Parr at Nipa Thai](https://scottishmum.com/2018/03/authentic-massaman-thai-curry-recipe-from-chef-sanguan-parr-at-nipa-thai/) - Songkran is the annual festival which takes place over three days during the traditional Thai New Year, this year falling on Friday 13 – Sunday 15 April 2018. Throughout Thailand there are celebrations, festivities and plenty of food; all culminating in a momentous country-wide water fight! In the run up to Songkran, Sanguan Parr, Head - [Guest Post - Adoption & Drug Users](https://scottishmum.com/2011/10/guest-post-adoption-drug-users/) - Firstly, thank you very much to Scottish Mum for letting me guest post on her blog. I wanted to write something relevant to her readers and I wasn't sure which route to go down. However, I was listening to a debate on a radio show the other day about adoption and the lengthy process it - [Frightening Christmas Consumer Waste Figures Revealed](https://scottishmum.com/2017/12/frightening-christmas-consumer-waste-figures-revealed/) - This is always a topic worth visiting over the festive season. I know that in our house, we tend to find ourselves with lots of clutter, and quite frankly, far too much waste for the size of bins we have to put it out with. A new study has found that we Brits, will throw - [What about knives?](https://scottishmum.com/2017/12/what-about-knives/) - Collaborative Post If you're a food fan, admit it, an addiction to knives begins to stalk us. It's even worse if we've had a great knife, lost it, and have never managed to replace it. I have to admit, that I'd love to be a bit of a knife snob, and I've written about different - [Single Pot Cheddar Cheeseburger Casserole That Will Blow Your Mind](https://scottishmum.com/2017/01/single-pot-cheddar-cheeseburger-casserole-that-will-blow-your-mind/) - Guest Recipe by Chidinma of Fruitful Kitchen. Who doesn’t like burgers? I think there are very few people out there who truly don’t enjoy one. But today, as I was getting ready to go out and buy a burger, I realised how unhealthy that is. I thought of making my own burger, which isn’t hard, - [4 Classic Kids’ Meals with a Grown Up Twist](https://scottishmum.com/2016/06/4-classic-kids-meals-with-a-grown-up-twist/) - Collaborative Post You might not have the best memory of school dinners, but there’s just something about classic kids’ food that’s comforting. Probably because kids’ food uses simple, straightforward ingredients, we don’t muck about with it. Warm and squidgy beans and mash just melts in your mouth, chicken nuggets come in handy bite sized pieces - [Loyalty and Fairness For All #HelloRBS](https://scottishmum.com/2014/10/loyalty-and-fairness-for-all-hellorbs/) - Loyalty and fairness are words that we hear bandied around our family a lot. Most readers know that my three boys are adopted. They have many birth brothers and sisters who live in other adoptive and foster families. Being able to cope with that, and treat everyone fairly is quite a tricky body of water - [Cauliflower & Cheese Soup](https://scottishmum.com/2012/05/cauliflower-cheese-soup/) - I often have pots of soup on the go, and this one was an experiment as the kids all love cauliflower cheese. I wanted to make it into a meal in a bowl, so with some extra mature cheddar from Andrew Gordon, our local butcher and fine food store, we were ready to go. I was - [Project 366 Day 7/365 – Supper of Beef Olives](https://scottishmum.com/2012/06/project-366-day-7365-supper-of-beef-olives/) - These beef olives were from @aberdeenbutcher on Twitter, or Andrew Gordon Butchery in Chattan Place Aberdeen. It has to be the best meat I've ever tasted. - [How I Cooked the Aberdeen Gordonian Best Steak as a Roast](https://scottishmum.com/2012/10/how-i-cooked-the-aberdeen-gordonian-best-steak-as-a-roast/) - We took home a lovely piece of meat from Andrew Gordon Butchery and Fine Foods and had a lovely and luxurious meal fit for a King and Queen. Questions that people often ask are around how to roast a joint of meat, or how to cook roast beef properly so I thought I'd write it down. - [Spinning Chicken - Ekeing out Quality Meat to avoid buying Mechanically Processed Meat - Part 1](https://scottishmum.com/2013/03/spinning-chicken-ekeing-out-quality-meat-to-avoid-buying-mechanically-processed-meat-part-1/) - My challenge for a lot of this year is to find ways to make quality meat affordable and a good purchase for everyone. Bearing in mind that my family would wolf down a big pack of chicken nuggets in one go, it would work out about a fiver a meal just for those, which is - [£200 Trusted Food Luxury Meat Pack Giveaway - Closes 31st March 2013](https://scottishmum.com/2013/03/200-trusted-food-luxury-meat-pack-closes-31st-march-2013/) - Winner Graeme McMillan announced via Rafflecopter. This is a fabulous opportunity to get away from the processed food that we really seem to be mistrusting as a nation these past few weeks. With the advent of the horse meat scandal, we seem to be enjoying a return to real meat from real butchers in the - [Kangaroo and Buffalo Burgers](https://scottishmum.com/2013/04/kangaroo-and-buffalo-burgers/) - My favourite online butcher, Andrew Gordon Butchery and Fine Foods has taken in some wonderfully unusual meat for burger making. He now frequently has Kangaroo, Waygu, Buffalo and Zebra burgers, as well as a few Springbok ones in stock. I was in past and came away with some Kangaroo and Buffalo burgers. The man - [The Sausage Softie Is Sooo Under Rated - Online Shopping At It's Best](https://scottishmum.com/2014/01/the-sausage-softie-is-sooo-under-rated-online-shopping-at-its-best/) - Getting meat through the post seems second nature to me nowadays. Look backwards a few years and I'd never have done it as I liked to see what comes home in my shopping basket. As much as I like Tesco and Asda home shopping, I'm never comfortable with the fresh produce that can arrive as - [Review: New Whole Hog Roast Hire in Aberdeen (Spit Roasted) Yum](https://scottishmum.com/2014/09/review-new-whole-hog-roast-hire-in-aberdeen-spit-roasted-yum/) - If you've read my blog for any time, you'll know who my favourite butcher is. Andrew Gordon has a traditional butcher shop in Aberdeen, and runs an online butcher shop at the Fresh Food Guru website. One of his specialities is with piedmontese beef. It's a beef that is leaner than chicken, and is proving very - [Sticky BBQ Chicken, Cherry Tomatoes & Cucumber](https://scottishmum.com/2013/05/sticky-bbq-chicken-cherry-tomatoes-cucumber/) - Much easier than it looked, I think I'm now hooked on cooking in the bag. This time round, I bought Maggi So Juicy to try it, but after seeing it is a Nestle product and knowing the boycott around them for the advertising campaigns at mothers in third world countries to get them to buy - [Natural Remedies to get rid of a sore throat, including Ginger Tea and Honey Toddy.](https://scottishmum.com/2017/11/natural-remedies-to-get-rid-of-a-sore-throat-including-ginger-tea-and-honey-toddy/) - You know that feeling when you wake up, with a rattly throat and every swallow feels like broken glass searing down your gullet? You instantly know you have some sort of a bug or two, or possibly the dreaded Strep throat, caused by the group A streptococcus bacteria. What do you do now? Although most - [Why it's important to keep flies out of your kitchen?](https://scottishmum.com/2017/11/why-its-important-to-keep-flies-out-of-your-kitchen/) - Collaborative Post Flies can be a real nuisance in our homes. They're frustrating and annoying, with that constant buzzing noise around your head, and that's not to mention the potential for spreading disease. The spread of disease is something you want to avoid, especially in the kitchen, where our food is prepared on a regular - [10 Ways To Get Your Kids Drinking More Water](https://scottishmum.com/2017/11/10-ways-to-get-your-kids-drinking-more-water/) - Collaborative Post Everyone who reads my blog, knows my mother is now pretty much bedridden after a stroke, but she still knows what she likes and what she doesn't. I spent my whole childhood being told that I needed to drink more water, and even my own kids have been at the sharp end of - [Gadgets I'd Like on MY Christmas List - Yes I Know it's only October](https://scottishmum.com/2017/10/gadgets-id-like-on-my-christmas-list-yes-i-know-its-only-october/) - It's no secret that I'm a gadget girl. Between Air Frying, Soup Making and Pressure Cooking, I tend to fall for lots of ideas and then not always follow through. Some gadgets have been absolutely disastrous for me. I bought an egg cooker that I thought was a saving grace, but within a month, I - [Review: Perfecta Comfort Mattress from Carpetright](https://scottishmum.com/2014/12/review-perfecta-comfort-mattress-from-carpetright/) - How could we say no to the lovely offer of a mattress from Carpetright. Our youngest has wanted a more grown up room, but he disliked the mattress on the bed. He found it too hard and not comfortable enough. When we were told which mattress we would get, I was slightly worried, as his - [Are your photos being hotlinked from another website?](https://scottishmum.com/2013/10/are-your-photos-being-hotlinked-from-another-website/) - Hotlinks are where other websites link directly to your image so that it shows up on their website. It's bandwidth theft as they use a part of your webspace to show the image on their website and could also have copyright issues. I've written about using images on blogs before so I am not going - [Local Florists with Interflora](https://scottishmum.com/2011/10/local-florists-with-interflora/) - This is a Featured Post This year has been a fabulous year with Interflora for the Scottish Mum Blog. For Mothers Day, Interflora sent me a gorgeous bunch of flowers to review and gave me one to give away. They were absolutely beautiful, and I can't resist showing you the picture again. There were many smiles in - [The Hay Fever Survival Guide](https://scottishmum.com/2017/05/the-hay-fever-survival-guide/) - I don't know about all of you, but I suffer from hay fever these days. I was lucky enough to avoid it for most of my life, then one day, I started sneezing after an outside run, and it's bothered me ever since. Believe me, there's nothing safe about repeated sneezing your way home in - [Review: Aberdeen Altens Hotel High Tea](https://scottishmum.com/2016/08/review-aberdeen-altens-hotel-high-tea/) - My family and I took a wee trip, courtesy of the Aberdeen Altens Hotel, along to theirs, and try the new High Tea offering. I'm used to High Tea being more of a cake and sandwich affair with a pot or two of tea thrown in, so having a meal as part of high tea - [Have you heard of a cord blood bank? Should you donate blood?](https://scottishmum.com/2015/11/have-you-heard-of-a-cord-blood-bank-should-you-donate-blood/) - I suppose you can say I was on alert after seeing BBC Doctors, where a nurse pretended to have placenta in a bag for cooking, when it was in fact chicken liver for pate. It was only a couple of days later when I saw the headline...that simply said something like "Why do we use - [Gurgle Baby Milestones - Software License Giveaway - Closes 23rd December 2011](https://scottishmum.com/2011/12/gurgle-baby-milestones-software-license-giveaway-closes-23rd-december-2011/) - The people at Gurgle Baby Milestones have offered me three licenses to give away for their software. Let me tell you a little about how it works. The software can be installed on a PC or a Mac in a few minutes. Baby milestones helps you to learn about, keep track and organise all - [Princes Breakfast Box Giveaway - Closes 15th October](https://scottishmum.com/2011/10/princes-brekkie-giveaway-closes-15th-october/) - If you are part of the blogger circuit, you may have seen the posts with the hastag #princesbrekkie. It is all about eating healthier, and making breakfast part of our five a day. Princes chose some families and sent us a box full of goodies. In the box was a USB stick with some - [5 Things That Make You Feel Good.](https://scottishmum.com/2011/02/5-things-that-make-you-feel-good/) - With all the juggling that we do on a daily basis, it seems to me to be a good thing to celebrate our womanhood, and what we like to do as women. Not as employees, girlfriends, wives, mothers, daughters, or friends. As I have been focussing on the negative aspects of my body and life recently, I - [Home Made Apple Cider Vinegar Face Mask](https://scottishmum.com/2014/06/home-made-apple-cider-vinegar-face-mask/) - collaborative post With any home remedy, you need to make sure you are not allergic to the ingredients before you try them. Home made recipe suggestions are just for fun. Apple cider vinegar has been touted as the be all and end all of vinegar, hailed as the fat buster, face rejuvenator and sunburn soother. - [I've a confession to make.](https://scottishmum.com/2016/02/ive-a-confession-to-make/) - Yes, I have. Through stress, and under active thyroid and diabetes, over the spell of a few years, I gained a bunch of weight, and I mean a whole bunch. 100lbs if I'm to be exact. Last June, I was diagnosed and put on meds for my diabetes and for my underactive thyroid. The thought - [Brave by nature. Healthy hydration.](https://scottishmum.com/2017/09/brave-by-nature-healthy-hydration/) - Highland Spring is one of those brands who like to highlight the benefits of healthy hydration, especially for kids. When back-to-school comes, it's always a worry for us parents, to know if our kids have had enough to drink or not. It's not as if we can tag along after then during the school day, - [Slow Cooked Mince & Tatties](https://scottishmum.com/2012/01/slow-cooked-mince-tatties/) - Two things got made in the Scottish Mum household today and they were complete opposite ends of the spectrum. I made apple muffins and a hodgepodge of rubbish and odds and sods that were lying around the fridge for supper. The apple muffins are a pretty standard recipe so I won't do them. I did - [Spicy Thai Cauliflower Soup - Vegan Friendly](https://scottishmum.com/2017/06/spicy-thai-cauliflower-soup-vegan-friendly/) - Guest post with recipe developed by Nicky Corbishley, the founder of Kitchen Sanctuary blog. http://kitchensanctuary.com Nicky is also brand ambassador for NEFF, after winning the Cookaholic competition last year, and is currently helping gathering true and passionate cookaholics around the country to enter this year’s competition. This is his second recipe to feature on my - [Guest Post: Is your child’s digital knowledge streets ahead?](https://scottishmum.com/2013/07/guest-post-is-your-childs-digital-knowledge-streets-ahead/) - This is a guest post by Alexandra from Know The Net, an organisation that provides information, tips and advice on how to stay safe online. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Having grown up in a world in which computers are all pervasive, it is little wonder that children often know more about using technology than their parents. To many, - [Review: Skinfix Soothing Wash and Hand Repair Cream](https://scottishmum.com/2016/04/review-skinfix-soothing-wash-and-hand-repair-cream/) - Every so often, I get offered a non typical product to review, and I was happy to try out the Skinfix products, as dry skin is something I have always suffered from. I keep my skin, both on my hands and my face, well moisturised, as I think it's important to, as we age. Skinfix - [Amazing Scents From Gorgeous Mother's Day Flowers & 25% Discount Code](https://scottishmum.com/2015/03/amazing-scents-from-gorgeous-mothers-day-flowers/) - Mother's Day for 2015, is Sunday, the 15th of March. If you haven't thought about a present for your mum, it's about time you did. Debenhams kindly sent me a bunch of flowers to review. With plenty to pick from the Mothers Day Flowers range, I was spoiled for choice. I also have a discount code for those - [Sugar Free Chocolate Mint Avocado Mousse](https://scottishmum.com/2017/05/sugar-free-chocolate-mint-avocado-mousse/) - Guest post with recipe developed by Nicky Corbishley, the founder of Kitchen Sanctuary blog.http://kitchensanctuary.com/ Nicky is also brand ambassador for NEFF, after winning the Cookaholic competition last year, and is currently helping gathering true and passionate cookaholics around the country to enter this year’s competition. Neff is currently looking for new entrants to this years - [Mindfulness is a new thing for me.](https://scottishmum.com/2017/05/mindfulness-is-a-new-thing-for-me/) - We've probably heard it called a multitude of other things, but learning to make time for ourselves is something we should all do, no matter what our budget or free time looks like. It's not the same, but as an example, I've lost count of the people who've asked me how I lost weight, but when - [Featured: House Renovations on a Budget](https://scottishmum.com/2013/05/featured-house-renovations-on-a-budget/) - It's the easiest thing in the world to ignore things in our homes when they begin to start looking a little tired and drab. Our homes should be places that we can relax, unwind and simply get ourselves back into the right frame of mind to move on with the next days, weeks and months - [Deiss Pro Citrus Zester & Cheese Grater and Castle McLellan Pate](https://scottishmum.com/2017/04/deiss-pro-citrus-zester-cheese-grater-and-castle-mclellan-pate/) - As part of the blog, I tried a couple of new products recently. One thing I have never actually owned was a standalone Citrus Zester, so I was intrigued by the new new one from Deiss, that also doubles as a cheese grater with a multitude of uses, from grating lemon, garlic, ginger and nutmeg - [Hard Men Love Their Mums](https://scottishmum.com/2014/03/hard-men-love-their-mums/) - Sponsored Post I just had to share this video as I thought it was quite funny. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pEI7u61dIQQ&feature=youtu.be Paperchase has launched its first viral film for Mother's Day. The intention is to show that every man loves his mother. There are three characters who are movie baddie types. Think tattoos, gold teeth and the reputation of - [Where are the missing kids? #blogging4madeline](https://scottishmum.com/2013/05/where-are-the-missing-kids/) - I am taking part in the #blogging4madeline campaign this year. Yes, I can just hear some of you sigh, begin to switch off and think about clicking away, but just wait a minute and spare a few minutes for the kids who have all gone missing, including Ben Needham, April Jones and many other - [The Spring Beach Clean - ps, it's not what you think....](https://scottishmum.com/2017/04/the-spring-beach-clean-ps-its-not-what-you-think/) - Every so often, as bloggers, we're asked to share initiatives that are actually beneficial for all of us. This is one of those initiatives, that I think we all need reminding of from time to time. The #binit4beaches campaign team contacted me, and asked me to do a post, which I'm delighted to do. They are - [Update & The Twiddle Mitt for Dementia](https://scottishmum.com/2017/04/update-the-twiddle-mitt-for-dementia/) - Those of you following my blog, know my mother has dementia and has been in hospital for a while now. With the wrong medicine initially, and the trauma, her hearing and sight are now fairly badly impaired, although at a medium distance, she can still make things out, but not close up, even with glasses. - [Review: Bahlsen Minis](https://scottishmum.com/2017/04/review-bahlsen-minis/) - We received some new samples this week, of the Bahlsen Mini range. My kids tend to like these as they're easily eaten, and we loved our Christmas samples, so although my boys had to wait a few days until I had time to take some pictures, the packets didn't hang around for long. My youngest - [High Protein Rice - An Experiment](https://scottishmum.com/2017/03/high-protein-rice-an-experiment/) - I'm into eating with high protein in my food these days. The next logical step after trying the Konjac version of rice, which is pretty much zero calorie, and not really my cup of tea, was try the actual protein rice. I got some from MyProtein, and gave it a whirl. It's made from vegetable proteins - [Pear and Apricot Stilton Stuffed Pork Loin](https://scottishmum.com/2017/03/pear-and-apricot-stilton-stuffed-pork-loin/) - I was lucky enough to be asked to provide a pork recipe for Quality Meat Scotland. As part of that lovely challenge, I got my meat from John Davidson, a local butcher to me, who provides great quality, and devised this lovely dish, which photographed a treat. The carrots prepared like this are absolutely amazing - [Google Page Rank. Have you ever wondered where it means you are in the pecking order ?](https://scottishmum.com/2012/06/google-page-rank-have-you-ever-wondered-where-it-means-you-are-in-the-pecking-order/) - To put it simply, we all know that Google Page Rank counts for some things, whether we want to admit it or not. It's google for heavens sake, and they are the law of he who must be obeyed for good search engine results. It's easy to check google page rank, but we need to - [Reviews: Christmas Suggestions For Mums](https://scottishmum.com/2015/11/reviews-christmas-suggestions-for-mums/) - We all end up wondering what to buy mums for Christmas, especially if we don't have hundreds of pounds to spend on something nice that she'd like. Here are some of my favourites of the things I've had to try for this festive season. I'd be tickled pink to get these as a present too. - [Making the School Run Fun](https://scottishmum.com/2015/09/making-the-school-run-fun/) - In collaboration with Proline. The new term is well and truly upon us, and the novelty of the school run may be wearing off. It’s easy to keep kids entertained on the school run for the first few days of the new school year, but as the days start to drag on they might get - [Clic Sargent - A Yummy Grand Mummy](https://scottishmum.com/2012/02/clic-sargent-a-yummy-grand-mummy/) - The CLIC Sargent Yummy Mummy Week is the 10th to 18th March 2012. Anyone can join up and do something positive to help children with cancer. This year, they are asking us to Do Something Yummy and come up with new ways to raise money. Click on the Yummy Mummy Link to join up and request an event - [A Lovely Bunch of Flowers for a Lovely Lady](https://scottishmum.com/2011/10/a-lovely-bunch-of-flowers-for-a-lovely-lady/) - My mother deserves much much more than she gets. At 76 years old, and with diabetes, arthritis, an underactive thyroid, and as a 7 year breast cancer survivor, she never stops. She drives my adult nephew about almost daily, she helps me with my boys, and she has to put up with more than any - [To Breakfast or Not!](https://scottishmum.com/2017/03/to-breakfast-or-not/) - Now here's a thing. My time has been all up in the air recently, and the first thing that always suffers in my life is that thing called "breakfast." It's that alien word that has spent most of my life being sent to Coventry, as it's one thing I've very rarely had time for in - [An Alternative to Traditional Haggis, Neeps and Tatties. Great for Kids..](https://scottishmum.com/2017/01/an-alternative-to-traditional-haggis-neeps-and-tatties-great-for-kids/) - And when I say kids, I mean of the big variety too. My teens like anything wrapped in breadcrumbs or battered, and lets face it, there are times when the easiest option is indeed the best option for us on a day to day basis. Yes, I make lots of fresh and home cooked meals, - [Review: Veronica's Snacks - Veggie and Gluten Free](https://scottishmum.com/2014/10/review-veronicas-snacks-veggie-and-gluten-free/) - Thank you to the people from Veronica's Snacks for sending us some lovely crisps to try. These weren't what I was expecting if I'm honest. I thought we would be getting some maize type snacks that kids have a bag of and then go on to eat two or three more packets, as they're still - [Guest Post: Parenting Across Scotland - Top Tips Resources](https://scottishmum.com/2014/10/guest-post-parenting-across-scotland-top-tips-resources/) - We all know that being a parent is extremely rewarding. But there are many decisions, concerns and worries that often come in to play along the way - starting at birth and continuing right through to the teenage years. This is why Parenting Across Scotland, a partnership of charities working together to provide a focus - [Healthy Food for January](https://scottishmum.com/2017/01/healthy-food-for-january/) - I don't know about all of you, but after Christmas and New Year, one of the things I look forward to is getting my food back under control and being organised in January. I'm at a point where much more weight loss isn't really what I'm after as I'd like to recomp, ie add a - [Skavi & Ray Alkoholfrei Prosecco and Lush Bahlsen Christmas Goodies](https://scottishmum.com/2016/12/skavi-ray-alkoholfrei-prosecco-and-lush-bahlsen-christmas-goodies/) - Thanks to Scavi & Ray, and also to Bahlsen for our Christmas samples. Scavi & Ray Alcohol Free Prosecco I have to say, that I haven't understood the Prosecco thing. I'm pretty much teetotal, but not through deliberate or sustained choice. I've had times in my life when I've drunk alcohol, it's just that it - [Review: Disney on Ice Frozen](https://scottishmum.com/2016/12/review-disney-on-ice-frozen/) - We had the good fortune to be invited to Disney on Ice for Aberdeen, where it's running until the 11th December, so if you want to see it, you better get your skates on.. See what I did there..... As luck wouldn't have it, we ended up being late for the pre-show, after I scratched - [Robert Gordon University, Aberdeen. Best of British Show in aid of The ARCHIE Foundation - 25th May 2012](https://scottishmum.com/2012/05/robert-gordon-university-aberdeen-best-of-british-show-in-aid-of-the-archie-foundation-25th-may-2012/) - I'm happy to host this guest post from the fashion management students at my old Uni, The Robert Gordon University, who are raising money for The ARCHIE Foundation for children. --------- Since it began in 2008 the annual charity fashion show at Robert Gordon University has raised tens of thousands of pounds for deserving charity - [Chicken Dippers from Fresh Fillets](https://scottishmum.com/2016/11/chicken-dippers-from-fresh-fillets/) - Making great chicken dippers at home is just so easy to do. All it needs is a little flour, a couple of eggs, chicken fillets, or a few chicken breasts chopped up, and ending up with breadcrumbs or ruskoline to finish them off. I haven't added the actual method for this, as it's pretty self-explanatory. - [New E-Book - Soup Maker Recipes: 30 MORE Tasty Recipes](https://scottishmum.com/2016/04/new-e-book-soup-maker-recipes-30-more-tasty-recipes/) - In this new e-book, Soup Maker Recipes there are 30 More tasty recipes, each one of which, has a fabulous picture to let you see how my versions turned out. I'd like to thank everyone who supported me with my first book, and those who were kind enough to leave reviews for me. My books - [Happy Halloween from Scottish Mum and the Co-op](https://scottishmum.com/2016/10/happy-halloween-from-the-scottish-mum-and-the-co-op/) - I always do a post on Halloween, though it's not always about foodie things, although this year it is. To help me out, the Co-op sent in a box of goodies, to make Halloween go with a bit of a bang, or rather, a bit of a sugar sweet high, but that's what Halloween is - [Furby Connect - Stick it on your Xmas list.](https://scottishmum.com/2016/10/furby-connect-stick-it-on-your-xmas-list/) - Yep, Furby's are back, and they're jazzily souped up for this year. I know, raising the Xmas or Christmas as a subject has most people throwing their hands up in horror. "But it's October, go away," I hear you all say in the back of my skull, as I chatter away with our most recent - [Review: Tsum Tsum Squishies - Series 2](https://scottishmum.com/2016/08/review-tsum-tsum-squishies/) - Thanks to Disney for our review Tsum Tsums. In our mail a few weeks ago, was a wee packet of Tsum Tsum Squishies, Series 2. These have a new fuzzy feel. I don't know how I've missed these, being the parent of a growing child who still likes all things toys, but we have. In - [Is it 'right' to ban high sugar products?](https://scottishmum.com/2015/08/is-it-right-to-ban-high-sugar-products/) - Ok, I've read the hype and the arguments and I have a point of view on this. As the general consensus seems to have been bashing Tesco for deciding to ban some high sugar products, I thought I should add my balance to the argument. For the record, this post is not sponsored or in - [Does how you live affect your chances of being burgled?](https://scottishmum.com/2015/10/does-how-you-live-affect-your-chances-of-being-burgled/) - In collaboration with Legal and General. It's that time of year again, when burglaries start to rise, as thieves know most of us are likely to have some Christmas presents lurking around, but how vulnerable do we make ourselves? When I was about 14, I came home from school, to find our front door open, - [Staying Safe at Christmas](https://scottishmum.com/2015/12/staying-safe-at-christmas/) - We shouldn't really have to say this, should we? Only we do.... Fire kills, and Christmas is really a time where we roll out decorations and lights for trees, that we use rarely, then bundle them up and squish them back into the decorations box until the next year. There are lots of hidden dangers - [My Middle Child Finally Swims](https://scottishmum.com/2016/03/my-middle-child-swims/) - Sorry, but I just had to share this one. My middle child, who has learning difficulties, has taken lessons for over 10 years. Yes, that's right, lessons for 10 years, along with weekly swimming at his school, and swimming with us, his family on top. It's been a long and difficult road for him, but - [You're Never Too Old to Play on a Swing](https://scottishmum.com/2016/04/youre-never-too-old-to-play-on-a-swing/) - Ok, I gave it a go, and decided outdoors running in any of my current shoes is a no go. I only made three-quarters of a mile and my feet were killing me today. It doesn't help that I bruised my arches on the daft shoes with too much support yesterday, which I only - [Our Go Ape Experience](https://scottishmum.com/2016/05/our-go-ape-experience/) - We all know exercise is good for us.....right... It should also be um fun.....right?????? Bwahahahaha. I couldn't not share this quickly on the blog. I'm so proud of what I've achieved in the last year so far. As if some of you hadn't thought I was nuts enough to start running at my age, - [Race for Life 2016 - Aberdeen - 10K - Done](https://scottishmum.com/2016/06/race-for-life-2016-aberdeen-10k-done/) - Well, it came and went, and I finished it, running all the way.... For a new runner, I can't even begin to say how chuffed I was at the finish line, although the last couple of K were quite tough for me to keep running, especially after pulling a muscle at around the 8k line. - [A Last Minute Break to Crete, and the Lovely Anastasia Hotel in Stalis](https://scottishmum.com/2016/09/a-last-minute-break-to-crete-and-the-lovely-anastasia-hotel-in-stalis/) - We're just back from a last minute break away from it all. We needed to do it as a family, as the kids school holidays were a challenge and finding respite for my mother during the holidays proved impossible. In the end, we took the boys out of school and scoured holiday websites for where - [Can you do a whole week of shopping in Aldi?](https://scottishmum.com/2016/09/can-you-do-a-whole-week-of-shopping-in-aldi/) - As part of the new Facebook launch of Aldi in Scotland, they set me a lovely challenge. At the moment, there are around 300 Scottish products in the stores up our way, so it's a good choice for local food and Facebook is where you can ask any questions directly. I wanted to write about the - [What's the best soup maker machine for me? Kettle Style?](https://scottishmum.com/2016/09/whats-the-best-soup-maker-machine-for-me/) - Ok, so I'm in the market for a new soup maker, but which is the best soup maker? I make soups so often, that my kids should really go around with vegetable heads...... Since I'm going through all the options, I thought I'd share what I turned up with you all, and hope I can - [Jealous Sweets. Vegan and Gluten Free.](https://scottishmum.com/2016/09/jealous-sweets-vegan-and-gluten-free/) - Remember back to when you were a kid, unless you're like me, and you can't remember that far back... Joking, but what were your favourite sweets? I know when I think back a couple of decades, I used to like fizzy sherbet and all things face wrinkling. I don't know many people who didn't. I - [When do you need to hire an architect?](https://scottishmum.com/2014/07/when-do-you-need-to-hire-an-architect/) - Whether you are hoping to turn your modest two-up two-down into one of the beautiful properties you find on the pages of some glossy magazine, or are simply expanding your kitchen, have you considered hiring an architect? An architect will most definitely add a touch of class to your remodelling, but a professional finish does - [Sand Art Home Packs from Kids Bee Happy](https://scottishmum.com/2012/01/sand-art-home-packs-from-kids-bee-happy/) - Sandra from Kids Bee Happy sent me some sand art packs to review. My children whooped with delight considering they absolutely loved the sand art at our Christmas Party last year (that sounds such a long time ago). The little packs come in boys or girls style pictures and the transformers and car pack was - [Child Abduction, Fear and Abuse. Help find April Jones.](https://scottishmum.com/2012/10/child-abduction-fear-and-abuse-help-find-april-jones/) - The news this week has not been good. Along with countless others, I've spent a lot of this week refreshing my news app on the phone to see if little April Jones had been found yet. Sadly, she's not been able to find her way home to her parents, and even more sadly, there has - [Gifts For Teachers - Do or Don't?](https://scottishmum.com/2013/07/gifts-for-teachers-do-or-dont/) - I've missed the Scottish school holiday time, but there's always those of you in England who will be looking for some gift ideas for your teachers. I think there are probably a lot of things that we can and can't give to teachers to just say a little thanks for all they've done all year - [My Kate Benjamin Black Leather Studded Duffel Bag - and a 20% Discount Code for Accessories Direct](https://scottishmum.com/2011/12/my-kate-benjamin-black-leather-studded-duffel-bag-and-a-20-discount-code-for-accessories-direct/) - I had a lovely offer through my e-mail recently. Most offers from PR's that I accept are centred around my children or gifts, but every so often, one comes along that I really can't resist taking the opportunity to accept for myself. I was given a document with an option to pick three items that - [Funky Foodies January 2012](https://scottishmum.com/2013/01/funky-foodies-december-2012/) - STAR RECIPE WINNER - for November was : Coombemill with her Apple and Cinnamon Festive Cakes as they look like something that we would love to eat all year round. Funky Foodies took a break in December, and is now open for Janary 2013. Only 10 days to add your recipes, so get clicking. - [Blogging with a Nexus 7](https://scottishmum.com/2013/09/blogging-with-a-nexus-7/) - I decided to take blogging mobile, and tried a nexus 7 from Argos. I've used a Nexus before as my youngest has one for games and reading, but I'd never tried to blog using one. I didn't have long to wait for my box and I had to be careful as I plan this to - [Quick and Easy Apple Turnovers](https://scottishmum.com/2016/09/quick-and-easy-apple-turnovers/) - Ever wondered what to do with that spare apple or two that nobody wants, or the odd ones that fall from the tree? My youngest came home from school, all fired up to show us what he'd made so quickly with an apple at school. Who am I to say no to that..... No measurements, - [Review: THAIKHUN, Thai Street Food.](https://scottishmum.com/2016/08/review-thaikhun-thai-street-food/) - Being terribly adventurous with food hasn't always been my cup of tea, so when Thaikhun offered us the chance to try their menu, I swithered for a while, and then decided to go with it. As a blogger, trying things that might be just outside my comfort zone, has to be done.....no excuses. With my - [Konjac Flour: Pasta and Rice with only 8 calories per 100g... Surely not!](https://scottishmum.com/2016/07/konjac-flour-pasta-and-rice-with-only-8-calories-per-100g-surely-not/) - This is seriously my first try with those pasta and rice replacements, the Konjac Flour ones, that are mainly water. With 8kcals per 100g of drained rice in the version I just tried, its a serious way to reduce calories for those who watch their carbs like me. How bad could it be? - [Recipe: Oaty Sticky Toffee Pudding using Hamlyn's Scottish Oatmeal](https://scottishmum.com/2016/07/recipe-oaty-sticky-toffee-pudding-using-hamlyns-oats/) - Along with a few fellow bloggers, I had the opportunity to appear in a leaflet for the Scottish Royal Highland Show this year. Hamlyns of Scotland, who commissioned the leaflet, kindly gave me permission to post my recipe on my blog too. Here it is, the front cover of the leaflet, which apparently went down - [Review: Harvester - Ghillies Lair, Aberdeen](https://scottishmum.com/2016/05/review-harvester-ghillies-lair-aberdeen/) - Before I start my review, I have a confession to make. A miserable tale of electronic devilishness. Like the annoying snapper at a wedding, I'd walked around the restaurant, pointed my lens at everything I thought looked amazing, and sat back in the knowledge I'd a lot of lovely images, including great ones of my - [Sponsor me for cancer research.](https://scottishmum.com/2016/05/sponsor-me-for-cancer-research/) - Ok, you know by now that I'm doing the Race for Life Aberdeen 2016, 10K. I'll be walking some, but I'm going to run as much as I can. I have a slight knee injury, which means I've cut back on training this week to let it heal, but hopefully it doesn't last for too - [My Solution to Pathetic Broadband - Hello 4GEE Mobile Wifi (Osprey 2)](https://scottishmum.com/2015/08/my-solution-to-pathetic-broadband-hello-4gee-mobile-wifi-osprey-2/) - Update: Inserting the sim on Osprey 2. This seems to trouble some people. I can only show you how mine is inserted. Locate the little cover with the sim image on the side and gently pull it open. With the sticker on the back of the Osprey, I've taken a picture of which way - [What I'd Like For Mother's Day](https://scottishmum.com/2016/03/what-id-like-for-mothers-day/) - In collaboration with Tesco. It's that time of year again when I'm looking for something for my mum, and being who my husband is, with no idea of what I'd like for Mothers Day, I usually end up buying something for myself and he takes the kids to get a bunch of flowers since I - [News from the SoupMaker.Club 22nd February 2015](https://scottishmum.com/2015/02/news-from-the-soupmaker-club-22nd-february-2015/) - For those of you subscribing here, these are newest recipes on the soup maker club website. Soup Maker Fruit Cocktail and Pear Smoothie (Tinned Version) Soup Maker Version of Cauliflower and Cheese Soup Soup Maker Chicken & Sweetcorn Soup Soup Maker Chicken & Mushroom Soup Soup Maker Version Coconut and Lime Soup - [Soup Maker Recipes](https://scottishmum.com/2010/11/soupmakerrecipes/) - Soup Maker [riview id=1798 num=2000 orderby=title order=asc showtitle=always lightbox=0] Not Made In A Soup Maker, But They're Great Soups Cauliflower and Cheese Soup Coconut and Lime Soup Noodle Chowder Turkey and Potato Soup - [Cookery Books in the Post](https://scottishmum.com/2016/03/cookery-books-in-the-post/) - Eat Your Greens, Reds, Yellows and Purples Any book that can encourage our kids to eat more healthily has to be a good thing. That goes for adults too, if I'm honest. I think a very large proportion of the population doesn't eat enough fruit and veg. In this book, there are more than enough - [The Mother of all Teaparties #fairtrade #happymothersday #twitterteaparty](https://scottishmum.com/2016/03/the-mother-of-all-teaparties-fairtrade-happymothersday-twitterteaparty/) - Happy Mothers Day to all. The Co-operative sent me a lovely surprise gift for Mother's Day with no expectation that I would post about it, but I think Mother's Day is one of the most important days of the year. More so than a birthday really, as the day signifies all that someone thinks of - [Happy Burns Day](https://scottishmum.com/2016/01/happy-burns-day/) - Do you call it Burns Day or Burns Night? I'm not sure it makes a difference. A huge thank you to Macsween Haggis for our little gift and Burns Night Supper Guide. Haggis doesn't always have to be the full haggis, neeps and tatties. There are other things we can do with it, and - [Giveaway: All Occasion Sweet Shop Hamper - Ends 30th Oct 2015](https://scottishmum.com/2015/09/giveaway-all-occasion-sweet-shop-hamper-ends-30th-oct-2015/) - Who doesn't love a sweetie hamper? Not me. When All Occasion Sweet Shop offered to send me a hamper and also offered one as a giveaway, I jumped at the chance. Our hamper is lovely and has been stashed away as a birthday present for later in the year. Stuffed full of retro sweets like lollipops, - [Review: Tefal Actifry for Ideal World TV Shopping](https://scottishmum.com/2015/04/review-tefal-actifry-for-ideal-world-tv-shopping/) - I've wanted a Tefal Actifry for a long time, but had never got round to buying one. When the Ideal World TV Shopping Channel gave me the opportunity to try one, there was no way I could resist at all. Everyone from people going to Weight Watchers to grannies kept talking about them and they - [Prize Draw: Win an iPad Air. Closes 6th February 2014](https://scottishmum.com/2014/01/giveaway-win-an-ipad-air-closes-6th-february-2014/) - Two years ago, I decided that I wanted to do up a few rooms in my house on a budget and not dip into the savings at Christmas. The only stipulation was that the blog had to pay for it. I managed to do up my lounge in 2012 and I've finally got enough to - [Funky Foodies November 2012](https://scottishmum.com/2012/11/funky-foodies-november-2012/) - STAR RECIPE WINNER - for October is Recipe Junkie, with the attack of the custard creams, and her Rum Brownie Recipe. Lush rum brownies that look to die for are last month's irresistible food. THE NOVEMBER FUNKY FOODIES LINKY IS OPEN AND THERE ARE ONLY 9 DAYS TO GET YOUR RECIPES IN THIS MONTH. Is - [Funky Foodies August (Month 3) & WINNER for July 2012](https://scottishmum.com/2012/08/funky-foodies-august-month-2-winner-for-july-2012/) - STAR RECIPE WINNER - for August 2012 is The Vegetarian Casserole Queen, who was chosen by June Winner Mama Cook. The recipe was for a gorgeous peach salad. Here's what Mama Cook had to say about the Star Recipe for July: "Interesting ingredients for a start but the photography has been thought through. Texture in - [Funky Foodies July (Month 2) & WINNER for June 2012](https://scottishmum.com/2012/07/funky-foodies-july-month-2/) - STAR RECIPE WINNER - for June 2012 is Mama Cook with her recipe for : Spanakopita (spinach and feta pies) for the whole family. Congratulations. JULY FUNKY FOODIE LINKY IS OPEN Apologies for being a couple of days late with the start of the linky. Funky Foodies is a monthly linkie, which will be opened on - [Funky Foodies June - Month 1](https://scottishmum.com/2012/05/funky-foodies-1/) - Funky Foodies is here on the Scottish Mum Blog: It is a monthly linkie, which will be opened on the first day of the month and will close on the last day. A medal will be awarded for the Star Recipe every month, and the fabulous trophy in the blog badge will be awarded at - [EU Cookie Directive - New Law Affects Websites and Blogs - 26th May 2012 - Possible £500,000 Fine for Non-Compliance. Do you know what it's all about?](https://scottishmum.com/2012/05/eu-cookie-directive-new-law-affects-websites-and-blogs-26th-may-2012-possible-500000-fine-for-non-compliance-do-you-know-what-its-all-about/) - If all you know about cookies is vanilla cream, chocolate chip or maple syrup, you may be in trouble if you have a website or blog. The Guardian asks the question. "How will the new law on cookies affect internet browsing?" I think it's a topic we need to make ourselves aware of. Cookies surround us - [Happy New Year for 2016....](https://scottishmum.com/2015/12/happy-new-year-for-2016/) - Just a little thank you from me to my readers. Thanks to you all. Yes, all of you. I've had a great year on the blog, and without readers, there wouldn't be any point continuing to write. I also want to thank all those who've stuck by me through the years, still getting and opening - [The Advantages of Dental Implants](https://scottishmum.com/2015/12/the-advantages-of-dental-implants/) - In collaboration with London City Smiles. I have six porcelain veneers and three crowns, so dental treatment is something I am very familiar with, and if someone has teeth that stops them living life happily, and can afford it, I am all for getting a smile fixed. in my twenties, I never used to smile, - [Should there be a sugar tax?](https://scottishmum.com/2015/11/should-there-be-a-sugar-tax/) - One of the things that's really irritated me in the news recently, is the whole kerfuffle about sugar tax, and how adding a sugar tax is going to wipe the floor with our overweight and unhealthy population. From the tone of my comments, you'll probably realise that I think that is pure shredded cabbage, rotted - [Retro Sweet Hampers are your Go-To Gift This Year](https://scottishmum.com/2015/11/retro-sweet-hampers-are-your-go-to-gift-this-year/) - In collaboration with Retro Sweet. Year after year, whether it is for a birthday or Christmas, we get into a rut of what presents we can give to people. We give presents all year round for various types of occasions, with some more personal than others, and it can be difficult to think of something - [What to get the men in your life for Christmas.....](https://scottishmum.com/2015/11/what-to-get-the-men-in-your-life-for-christmas/) - In collaboration with M and M Direct. This is one of the most challenging things I face on a yearly basis. I don't know my own dad very well at all, and despite having to help him cope with his dementia, I still haven't got to know him well. On top of that, my own brother - [Guest Recipe : The Best Carrot Cake in the World from Lindsey Cave](https://scottishmum.com/2012/04/guest-recipe-the-best-carrot-cake-in-the-world-ever-from-lindsey-cave-2/) - A lovely Guest Recipe from Lindsey, who you can find on Twitter as @MrsVanderCave, with her blog at backofbeyondbaking.blogspot.com. That topping is perfection by the look of it. -------------------------------- This recipe is actually for a carrot cake but it makes a big cake which can sometimes be a bit OTT, particularly if you like to watch - [A cake worth the calories........the sweetie cake](https://scottishmum.com/2012/04/a-cake-worth-the-calories-the-sweetie-cake/) - It's mums birthday today. If you didn't know, you do now. I tend not to make too big a fuss when it's my birthday and I actually never tell anyone in real life as I don't want them to feel as if they "have" to buy me something, which they don't. I'll have popped out - [Guest Recipe : Meatball and Okra Casserole](https://scottishmum.com/2012/05/guest-recipe-meatball-and-okra-casserole/) - This guest recipe comes to you from Leila of @persianliving on Twitter. Her blog is worth a visit as it grows with lovely Iranian style cooking. You can find her recipes at: persianliving.co.uk My favourite vegetable of late is the flavourful and aromatic Okra, otherwise known in the West as Ladies Fingers or Gumbo. In - [My Top Kitchen Gadgets](https://scottishmum.com/2011/02/my-top-kitchen-gadgets/) - I thought it might be fun to write about my most used kitchen gadgets. I've already written about my close relationship to the soda stream (here). Favourite gadgets are not always the things you think they are going to be when you buy them. Pre children I had loads of things that were tucked away at - [How a Soda Stream broke my addiction.](https://scottishmum.com/2011/01/how-a-soda-stream-broke-my-addiction/) - One of the things I used to do regularly was buy diet drinks. I was totally addicted to them. I would have a raging headache if I didn't have any, so it was not good. Last year, I decided that I needed to stop the ridiculous cost that I was spending monthly on drinks if I - [Jamie Oliver - Every Day Super Food - Win 1 of 4 Copies - Ends 12th Oct 2015](https://scottishmum.com/2015/09/jamie-oliver-every-day-super-food-win-1-of-4-copies/) - On the run up to Jamie Oliver's 40th birthday, he's been on a personal journey with his food, exploring his relationship with food, and making changes to his diet and lifestyle. Jamie wants to share what he's learned with the public, via a new book that is jam packed full of 30 recipes for breakfast, - [New Naturelly Brilliant: Jelly Juice (Review)](https://scottishmum.com/2015/09/new-naturelly-brilliant-jelly-juice/) - Ok, I have to admit to being initially hesitant, as jelly and juice don't quite seem to go well together, but when our samples arrived, I decided to try it for myself. In the past, I've tried children's juices that only make me thirsty, but I didn't find that with these samples. I'd buy these - [Five Home Repairs Anyone Can Do in Time for the Holidays](https://scottishmum.com/2015/09/five-home-repairs-anyone-can-do-in-time-for-the-holidays/) - Today's guest post is in collaboration with Ridgeons. It's coming to the holiday time again, in the second part of the year, where we wonder where the time has flown, and how we're going to do everything in time. I have to say, I think every girl should have a drill and a few screwdrivers - [Gorgeous Red Cranberry and Cherry Sauce Recipe](https://scottishmum.com/2012/12/gorgeous-red-cranberry-and-cherry-sauce-recipe-accompaniment-to-christmas-dinner/) - How to make cranberry sauce is something I have wondered for a while. I wanted to try something different, and visiting Cosco saw me pick up a box of fresh cranberries that I fancied using to make a sauce for Christmas Day. I'm pleased to say it was easier than I expected to do, and - [New Visual Recipe Index](https://scottishmum.com/2015/09/new-visual-recipe-index/) - Here is my new recipe index. I hope it makes finding recipes much easier. They'll all be added over the next few days. It can be accessed from the top menu on my website. Enjoy. Recipe Index Baking [riview id=951 num=2000 orderby=title order=asc showtitle=always lightbox=0] Drinks & Shakes [riview id=957 num=2000 orderby=title order=asc showtitle=always lightbox=0] - [Review: New Morphy Richards Sauté and Soup Maker](https://scottishmum.com/2014/12/review-new-morphy-richards-saute-and-soup-maker/) - I bought this Morphy Richards Sauté and Soup Maker with Serrated Blade recently, to replace my older Morphy Richards Soup Maker. I love the quantities and ease of cleaning with the Morphy Richards soup makers, so there was not even a discussion in my mind as to whether I should get one or not. I - [Cheese and Tomato Quiche Recipe, with Maw Broon's Sauces](https://scottishmum.com/2014/03/cheese-and-tomato-quiche-recipe-with-maw-broons-tomato-and-broon-sauces/) - This recipe size makes up to 8 x 4" flan case sized Quiches. Use half the quantities for a smaller batch. Quiche is nice and easy to make and almost everyone enjoys Quiche hot or cold. Eaten hot, it's great with some baked beans and is fabulous cold as part of a salad, and can - [Quick and Easy Chocolate Fudge](https://scottishmum.com/2011/08/quick-and-easy-chocolate-fudge/) - This is the easy recipe for chocolate fudge that I got off of a tin of Nestle Condensed milk. I don't usually do much in the way of potted recipes and this one is VERY sweet, but I thought I would share the results of how it came out. Ingredients 400g chocolate 397g tin condensed - [How to make stock in a Soup Maker](https://scottishmum.com/2015/02/how-to-make-stock-in-a-soup-maker/) - We're all put off making stock on occasion, by the sheer need to be around as the pot simmers those old bones and bits left over from any roast we've had for dinner, but there is another way. Determined to use my Soup Maker to its full extent, I tried making stock as a test, - [Silent Sunday & My Sunday Photo - 8 June 2014](https://scottishmum.com/2014/06/silent-sunday-my-sunday-photo-8-june-2014/) - [Apple Pie, Ice-Cream and Elmlea](https://scottishmum.com/2012/03/apple-pie-ice-cream-and-elmlea/) - Apple Pie with Mackie's Vanilla Ice-Cream and Elmlea Topping - A Wicked Dessert - [The Cheats Strawberry & Raspberry Pavlova (made in Aberdeen by kids)](https://scottishmum.com/2012/03/the-cheats-strawberry-raspberry-pavlova-made-in-aberdeen-by-kids/) - Made in Aberdeen by the Scottish Mum kids. Want a speedy dessert that will make kids fall over themselves with delight at having made? One they can share with family and friends, or just to eat themselves? There is nothing difficult about creating such a spectacular tower of indulgency for a sweet dessert to die - [Making Sweet Microwave Popcorn - Like The Cinema](https://scottishmum.com/2013/11/making-sweet-microwave-popcorn-like-the-cinema/) - I bought popcorn kernels ages ago with the intention of putting them into a pan to make but really never got round to it. I'd planned a Lakeland delivery as we needed some more sodastream gas canisters - so I added their microwave popcorn maker to the basket. I thought it was the best of the - [Cheesecake Heaven](https://scottishmum.com/2011/03/cheesecake-heaven/) - Too much chocolate? What do you think? - [Cheesecake Flan (Cheats Cheesecake)](https://scottishmum.com/2012/05/cheesecake-flan-cheats-cheesecake/) - This is a complete and utter cop out for cheesecake but is fabulously easy, quick to make and the kids and visitors are always impressed. Ingredients 1 x Large sponge flan case. 500g Tub of mascapone cheese. 4 Tablespoons icing sugar. 1 Teaspoon vanilla essence (optional). Peaches and pears. Method Take cover off pre-bought flan - [Top Tips for Baking the Perfect Cupcakes](https://scottishmum.com/2013/01/top-tips-for-baking-the-perfect-cupcakes/) - 1. Use the minimum of utensils and keep your ingredients list reasonable. I have a habit of making a huge mess of the kitchen when I am cooking, and with 6 mouths to feed, the kitchen can look like a bomb site quite easily. I have got cup cake making down to a fine art - [Traditional Scottish Oakcakes](https://scottishmum.com/2012/05/traditional-scottish-oakcakes/) - Oat cakes, normally known as oatcakes in Scotland, are a traditional Scottish food. I've heard there is a version in England that is more like thick pancakes, and I'll have to look for those to try in the future. The Scottish oatcakes recipe is simple and quick. Oatcakes are a great accompaniment to stovies, corned - [Jam and Cream Roulade (Roly Poly) - No Oil or Fat - Modify for Dairy / Lactose Free](https://scottishmum.com/2011/06/jam-and-cream-roulade-roly-poly-no-oil-or-fat-modify-for-dairy-lactose-free/) - I just have to share the recipe for this one. I didn't build it from any recipe that was in any book. It is simply trial and error, and I finally hit on a masterpiece that my children absolutely adore. I bake - a lot. I bake blind - a lot. I throw things in, - [Easy Strawberry Jam Recipe](https://scottishmum.com/2014/07/easy-strawberry-jam-recipe/) - For this recipe, I used Silver Spoon Jam Sugar to avoid having to use pectin. As a rule, strawberry jam can be tricky to set, but there were no problems at all using this recipe. I'd even go as far as saying it set too much, so I might be tempted to slightly up the - [Garden Vegetables](https://scottishmum.com/2015/09/garden-vegetables/) - I thought you might like a look at some of our vegetables from the plot this year. We've had a bumper crop, including broccoli, cabbage, potatoes, leek, onion, carrot, cucumber, green beans, swede and strawberries. Mr Scottish seems to have taken growing veges in his stride, helped along by middler of course, who needs - [Is Your Windows 10 Machine Updating Someone Else's Computer?](https://scottishmum.com/2015/08/windows-10-peer-to-peer-updating-your-broadband-could-update-a-pc-of-someone-you-dont-know/) - If you've downloaded Windows 10, and are loving it, congratulations. I, on the other hand, really do like it, but I found a problem. After installing it, my machine seemed to be working constantly, and my processor sat at 98% most of the time, with only one program open. It meant I could hardly - [How to Cook Roast Beef](https://scottishmum.com/2013/10/how-to-cook-roast-beef/) - When it comes to late Autumn and the cold weather starts to bite, lots of us start to move to comfort food to keep our kids warm on cold days and put some good solid food into their bellies. Making roast beef and then later adding all the trimmings is something that we can all - [Abuse at Winterburn View, Castlebeck (Panorama) It Needs MORE Than Arrests](https://scottishmum.com/2011/06/abuse-at-winterburn-view-castlebeck-panorama-it-needs-more-than-arrests/) - Anyone who knows me is going to know what I am going to say about this hospital. The abuse at Winterburn View, the Castlebeck Private Hospital has shaken me considerably. These abused people are CHILDREN. They are in big bodies, but they are CHILDREN. Picture your two, or three, or four year old being treated like that. - [Silent Sunday & My Sunday Photo - 18 May 2014](https://scottishmum.com/2014/05/silent-sunday-my-sunday-photo-18-may-2014/) - [Charity Guest Post: Would You Like To Start 2015 Changing A Life? Volunteer For Guide Dogs](https://scottishmum.com/2014/12/charity-guest-post-would-you-like-to-start-2015-changing-a-life-volunteer-for-guide-dogs/) - Did you know that 180,000 people who are blind or partially sighted rarely leave home alone? At Guide Dogs we are committed to change this and we need your help to do so. Besides training guide dogs, we offer other services that contribute to change the life of blind and sighted people in Scotland. We - [Making Chocolate Eggs For Easter](https://scottishmum.com/2014/04/making-chocolate-eggs-for-easter/) - A wee while ago, the people from Stay In Devon sent us a wee kit for making your own easter eggs to try. Middler, who has special needs decided he'd be the one making them with a little help from his brother. As much as I tried to persuade him to use the fried eggs - [Win a Pair of Personalised Cufflinks (Xmas Pressie) Ends 6th Dec 2013](https://scottishmum.com/2013/11/win-a-pair-of-personalised-cufflinks-xmas-pressie/) - Most women love jewellery but I suspect most men love the odd bit of bling here and there, especially if it's good quality and makes them feel good. Although my husband rarely wears any jewellery other than his wedding ring when he goes out, he does like a good set of cufflinks. It's coming up - [Are Artificial Food Colourings REALLY Bad?](https://scottishmum.com/2013/10/are-artificial-food-colourings-really-bad/) - Looking at the ingredients labels on bottles tins and cans when my kids were little would have me literally scream inside and look around carefully for the bad mother halo replacement to be plonked on my head if I chose to feed them something with horrific artificial content. I'd plonk the offending food items back - [Cervical Cancer Prevention Week - Why would women put their daughters off having the vaccine?](https://scottishmum.com/2013/01/cervical-cancer-prevention-week-why-would-women-put-their-daughters-off-having-the-vaccine/) - http://vimeo.com/10110907 Cervical Cancer Prevention week is: 20 - 26 January 2013 I really had to get involved with this one. I really had no right to let it go past. I'm not going to go in detail with the symptoms of cervical cancer as this is prevention week, but if you want to find out - [Looking for something to do in Scotland this weekend? Festival of Museums Events until 17th May 2015](https://scottishmum.com/2015/05/looking-for-something-to-do-in-scotland-this-weekend-festival-of-museums-events-until-17th-may-2015/) - Finding out about our own heritage and background are important to many of us Scots, and although we are taught much of it in schools, I've found that my own children's experience of our local heritage is much weakened in comparison to what my generation learned as children. As a family, we've visited several of - [Win a Luxury Hamper worth around £200 from Hamlyn's Oats. Ends 04 May 2015.](https://scottishmum.com/2015/04/win-a-200-hamper-from-hamlyns-oats-ends-04-may-2015/) - Hamlyns of Scotland brand of porridge oats is 50 years old this year. Their porridge oats and oatmeal are well known around these parts up in Aberdeen as one of the go to brands. I don't remember a time in my life when Hamlyns products weren't on shop shelves, so for me, it's one of - [Is Your Blog Mobile Friendly?](https://scottishmum.com/2015/04/is-your-blog-mobile-friendly/) - You might or might not have seen the news about Google changing the algorithm to add mobile friendliness to the mix. Some won't care, but for most of us, where we land in the search rankings tends to make a difference in how many visitors the great Google sends along to us through natural search - ["Flooer wi a Wish" New Year Doric Poem for all my friends with the English Translation](https://scottishmum.com/2010/12/flooer-wi-a-wish-new-year-doric-poem-with-english-translation/) - Fir a oor freens fae ower e warld (For all our friends, all over the world) Fir abody wi ken (For everyone we know) Ah'm wishin ye a gran new year (I'm wishing you all a great New Year) Oor freens are a wi hiv (Our friends are all we have) Lets nae tak ony crabbit - [Giveaway: Castle MacLellan Hamper - Ends 13th December 2013](https://scottishmum.com/2013/12/giveaway-castle-maclellan-pate-ends-13th-december-2013/) - We've been sent some lovely pates to try. They are unusual, tasty and the kids just seem to enjoy them. Castle MacLellan is a Scottish company based in Dumfries and Galloway. It has recently undergone a brand refresh to emphasise its strong connections with local suppliers and has updated the website and launched a new range - [Silent Sunday - 20 April 2014](https://scottishmum.com/2014/04/silent-sunday-20-april-2014/) - [Silent Sunday - 30th March 2014](https://scottishmum.com/2014/03/silent-sunday-30th-march-2014/) - [Silent Sunday & My Sunday Photo - 27 April 2014](https://scottishmum.com/2014/04/silent-sunday-27-april-2014-silentsunday/) - [Silent Sunday - 02nd March 2014](https://scottishmum.com/2014/03/silent-sunday-02nd-march-2014/) - [Silent Sunday & My Sunday Photo - 04 May 2014](https://scottishmum.com/2014/05/silent-sunday-04-may-2014-silentsunday/) - [Review: Magical World Journals](https://scottishmum.com/2014/05/review-magical-world-journals/) - Magical World Journals recently sent us a Dragons The Journal to try out. I'm not sure what I was expecting, but this is a substantial journal. My youngest's eyes popped out of his head when he saw it, and the possibilities of filling it with his own drawings meant he was keen to have it, - [The Beano is 75 - 2014 Beano Annual](https://scottishmum.com/2013/11/the-beano-is-75-2014-beano-annual/) - Each and every year of my childhood life, I received the Beano and the Oor Wullie Annuals. It was just a tradition and every other child I knew also had them as a pressie on Xmas morning. We'd sort of got out of the tradition over the last few years here so it was nice - [What is wrong with a label?](https://scottishmum.com/2011/11/what-is-wrong-with-a-label/) - What is in a label? If I had a £ for everyone who said that they didn't want their child labelled, I'd be doing quite nicely by now thank you. I have to wonder why we have such an aversion to labels, or names, or public affirmation of issues. Many do accept the - [Giveaway: Fresh Food Guru Christmas Dinner Pack Worth £85 - Closes 15th Dec 2014](https://scottishmum.com/2014/11/giveaway-fresh-food-guru-christmas-dinner-pack-worth-85-closes-15th-dec-2014/) - A quality butcher experience can look expensive at first glance, but if you plan your ratios of meat to other ingredients, careful meal planning and a little thought can have us all producing great quality meals from great tasting ingredients - yet still coming within budget. I've been using products from the Fresh Food Guru - [Changing RSS Feed Address & How To Subscribe to the Scottish Mum Blog](https://scottishmum.com/2015/03/changing-rss-feed-address-how-to-subscribe-to-the-scottish-mum-blog/) - This has niggled me for a while. I know some stat couters use it, but to be honest, it's pretty worthless as a method of establishing follower counts these days. I changed my RSS (think Google Reader eg) over to Feedburner a few years ago, lost all my original RSS subscribers and it was at - [Seven things you don't know about me.](https://scottishmum.com/2011/01/seven-things-you-dont-know-about-me/) - Here are the guidelines Link back to the person who gave it to you. Give 7 facts about yourself. Award up to 15 great bloggers you’ve recently discovered I've been tagged by Carol Finds Her Wings (via twitter) and Mummy Alarm (via twitter) to share seven things that you don't know about me. I blog anonymously so - [How to be a Scottish Mum](https://scottishmum.com/2011/01/how-to-be-a-scottish-mum/) - Looking at how people find my blog today in the statistics package, I was struck by how many people find it by asking the words "how to be a scottish mum." I'm not really sure how to take that. Then I had to think about what makes a scottish mum different from say, an english - [Win £50 To Spend in Jamie Oliver's Italian in Aberdeen & Up To 3 Kids Eat Free #aberdeen Closes 31st March 2015](https://scottishmum.com/2015/03/win-50-to-spend-in-jamie-olivers-italian-in-aberdeen-up-to-3-kids-eat-free-aberdeen-closes-31st-march-2015/) - Who doesn't like the idea of a fabulously free meal. Up for offer today, I have a £50 meal to give away for one lucky prize winner to spend in the Aberdeen Jamie Oliver Italian restaurant. The giveaway ends on the 31st of March 2015, at midnight. The voucher can be spent on anything on the menu, - [Everyone has a right to be heard. Find out about ACC from the NHS.](https://scottishmum.com/2015/04/everyone-has-a-right-to-be-heard-find-out-about-acc-from-the-nhs/) - Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) describes the things people can use to let their voice be heard. Just driving along a road, we recognise the signs giving us instructions. Even most non drivers know what they mean and we can talk about those things to others. But what if we don't have the ability to - [Review: Silvercrest Rice Cooker](https://scottishmum.com/2015/03/review-silvercrest-rice-cooker/) - I bought this. £9.99 from Lidl as an impulse buy. I know I'm beginning to use gadgets more than my cooker, but that's not always a bad thing as I'm a carer for multiple persons as well as trying to earn a small crust now and again. I love rice, I absolutely do, but I - [Soup Maker Club Update: 23 March 2015](https://scottishmum.com/2015/03/soup-maker-club-update-23-march-2015/) - If you haven't seen what's on the soupmaker.club recently, here's a bit of an insight. Recipes French Onion Soup Recipe Celeriac Soup Recipe Italian Chicken & Butter Bean Soup Recipe Find out how I clean my soupmaker. Read about the six food tastes, including sweet, sour, hot, salty, bitter and umami. Find out how I - [Do Onions Bring Tears To Your Eyes?](https://scottishmum.com/2015/03/do-onions-bring-tears-to-your-eyes/) - One of the most versatile ingredients for many dishes has to be onions. The majority of mine have onions in some shape or form, whether they're red, white or just small shallots. Without going into too much depth, there is a lot of goodness in our onions and we'd all do well to eat more - [Introducing cats to cats. You Tube Video Find (Cute)](https://scottishmum.com/2012/07/introducing-cats-to-cats-you-tube-video-find-cute/) - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=grLyTX8Dpso I found this on Youtube, and I really couldn't resist sharing it. I once had to introduce a teensy kitten to two adult cats and the process was pretty similar. We had our cats eye each other up through glass doors for a few days, but the steps seem to be pretty common and - [Project 366, 1/365 for me. My Old Lady Enjoying the Smells](https://scottishmum.com/2012/06/1365-my-old-lady-enjoying-the-smells/) - My girl is 11. She is blind with cancer and arthritis, but still she enjoys walking, cuddles and food. She's spending more and more time outside, so I suspect this year I will be taking lots of pictures of her as we really don't have that many. This is a new start for me joining - [Featured Guest Post: How do you get kids to brush their teeth?](https://scottishmum.com/2012/10/featured-guest-post-how-do-you-get-kids-to-brush-their-teeth/) - Featured Post: My kids recently had the dentist and all three of them had to get fillings. Sadly for my youngest, who religiously brushes his teeth twice a day, he needed the most fillings. The problem with the other two kids, is that they're not keen on brushing at all. They're both past the - [Review: Tea, Powercuts and 1940's Musicals](https://scottishmum.com/2013/06/review-tea-powercuts-and-1940s-musicals/) - I was brought up on cups of tea from my grandmother while the snow trickled down outside and power cuts ruled, or on other days we watched 1940 movies on the TV. I can imagine that those occasions happened very much less often than I remember them, but as in the way of memories, we - [Lots of Little Sweeties from the New Nanobytes](https://scottishmum.com/2013/09/lots-of-little-sweeties-from-the-new-nanobytes/) - My kids had the pleasure of testing out all three new flavours of Nanobytes recently. They're out in the shops this month and my kids will be eagerly keeping an eye out for them arriving. Nanobytes says: Some time ago, far far away in space… The sky was filled with edible planets drifting dangerously close - [Review: Shark S3901 Lift Away Pro Steam Pocket Mop](https://scottishmum.com/2014/03/review-shark-s3901-lift-away-pro-steam-pocket-mop/) - I've had my Shark Lift Away for a couple of weeks now. I fully expected not to like it as much as my elderly Karcher, and I thought I would give it away as a present to someone else. I was very much mistaken, and my old Karcher single tank yellow machine is that one - [I am not a journalist.](https://scottishmum.com/2015/01/rant-corner-i-am-not-a-journalist/) - Following another marathon session of wading through dross e-mails that don't get spammed, my annoyance level can get high. At this point, it's fair to say that I'm slightly perturbed by the level of contact from some of the more unscrupulous people trying to secure links and fake guest posts. It's like all those calls - [Soup Maker Club](https://scottishmum.com/2015/01/soup-maker-club/) - Soups have begun to take over the blog. I know a fair few of you visit, just for the soups. I see many of you subscribing after reading soup posts, but if you're just after soup recipes, you might not want to read lots of my other posts, articles and sometimes, even my rants over - [Aunt Bessie's with "New" Added Roastiness for Mother's Day Cooking](https://scottishmum.com/2014/03/aunt-bessies-with-new-added-roastiness-for-mothers-day-cooking/) - In Association With Aunt Bessie's It's that time of year again when we have to think about what we are going to get for our mothers. My own mother is notoriously difficult to buy for as she always says that she wants "nothing." She does like a good roast dinner though, and I'm not always - [Thomas Kitchen Carving Challenge: Tomato Ladybirds with a Cucumber Rose](https://scottishmum.com/2014/03/thomas-kitchen-carving-challenge-tomato-ladybirds-with-a-cucumber-rose/) - After a few attempts, this blog post is my entry for the Tesco Blogger Fruit and Vegetable Carving Challenge to win £150 meal voucher from Red Letter Days. This week is the first time I have tried vegetable carving, so I've found it difficult, challenging and fun at the same time. It's easy to see why - [Lightening Strikes with Wowee's Light Strike Assault Strikers and Accessories](https://scottishmum.com/2011/11/lightening-strikes-with-wowees-light-strike-assault-strikers-and-accessories/) - A fabulous offer which was perfectly timed for the birthday of the littlest boy of the family. Scottish Mum Blog jumped at the chance to take up Wowee Light Strike Product review and eldest did his first youtube bit - his nerves get less and less as the time goes on. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sy9o_52SB74 The box arrived a - [Leapfrog LeapPad Explorer - How does it shape up?](https://scottishmum.com/2011/11/leapfrog-leappad-explorer-how-does-it-shape-up/) - We were sent the LeapPad Explorer to review a couple of weeks ago, and because it was so close to middlers birthday, I held off giving it to him until the big day as I didn't want him to have something so major so close to his birthday. What is the LeapPad Explorer It is - [Christmas Tree Napkin Fold Tutorial](https://scottishmum.com/2014/12/christmas-tree-napkin-fold/) - This is so simple to do, and looks great on a table, or place setting. It's something a little different and personalised for your Xmas day guests. Napkin folding is not something new, but we all appreciate the little touches that made Christmas Day that little bit more special. Here's how to do it for - [Giveaway: Berndes 24cm Cast Iron Casserole Dish - Ends 30th December 2014](https://scottishmum.com/2014/11/giveaway-berndes-24cm-cast-iron-casserole-dish-ends-30th-december-2014/) - Tesco have given me one of these lovely casserole dishes to give away, as part of their in-store sticker promotion. a Rafflecopter giveaway The Rules - Open to UK Mainland Entrants only. - 1 Winner will win one 24 cm Berndes Cast Iron Casserole Dish from Tesco. - The prize will be sent to you - [Cybermummy and Leap Frog Leapster Explorer 2011](https://scottishmum.com/2011/07/cybermummy-and-leap-frog-leapster-explorer-2011/) - I was taken totally out of my comfort zone when I was in London at the Cybermummy Conference on the 26th June. Mixing with a HUGE group of women, none of whom I had ever met before had my stomach growling with the nerves that were threatening to overtake my bold statement at booking myself in for - [Home Made Ashes Rings](https://scottishmum.com/2014/12/home-made-ashes-rings/) - So, last night was mostly about making our Christmas presents. I was talking to a Twitter friend who had bought some resin and made wee pendants, and it spurred me on to finish a project that was badly needing sorted. The fact that it's also led to another addictive hobby and ashes rings, is neither - [Galloway Cheddar Cheese Promotional Packs](https://scottishmum.com/2014/12/galloway-cheddar-cheese-promotional-packs/) - Much thanks to Galloway Cheddar for our hamper of goodies to try. There were so many things from the box to consider trying, that we didn't know what to do first. We had wraps, haggis, macaroni, cheese, potatoes, oat cakes and even some spices. In the end, the kids decided to opt for a good - [Top Tips For Using A Soup Maker](https://scottishmum.com/2014/11/top-tips-for-using-a-soup-maker/) - What are my top tips for using a soup maker? Read on to find out. Why Should You Use A Soup Maker? For me, a soup maker was a welcome present from Morphy Richards, which has seen a labour of love grow from early beginnings. Morphy Richards now have a new machine on the go, - [Review: Chop Sizzle Wow Cookbook](https://scottishmum.com/2014/11/review-chop-sizzle-wow-cookbook/) - The Chop Sizzle Wow Cookbook was released in October this year. I received a copy of this highly pictoral cookbook, which has 50 quick and easy Italian recipes from The Silver Spoon. Each recipe is illustrated step by step, in hand drawn style, which will appeal to young cooks as well as those of us - [Giveaway: Win A Set of 4 Gemstone Animals - Ends 10th December 2015](https://scottishmum.com/2014/11/giveaway-win-a-set-of-4-gemstone-animals-ends-10th-december-2015/) - Museum Selection was founded in 2002. They work with museums and galleries, to offer a collection of home accessories, gifts and cards, with purchases of these items helping the museums. Taking inspiration from country house interiors and gardens, museum collections and our great cathedrals, their aim is to bring together distinctive and unusual home accessories, jewellery, clothing - [Review. The Adventurer: The Curse Of The Midas Box](https://scottishmum.com/2014/10/review-the-adventurer-the-curse-of-the-midas-box/) - We received a pre-release copy of The Adventurer: The Curse Of The Midas Box DVD. Now, this was a rip roaring feast of a film that had my boys glued to the TV. It's got all the good stuff that keeps the slightly older children entertained. We thought it was brilliant, especially for boys, or fans - [The Snow Queen & Downloadable Activity Sheet](https://scottishmum.com/2014/10/the-snow-queen-downloadable-activity-sheet/) - We received the new Snow Queen DVD, to watch during the holidays. I was due to look after a friends wee girls, who are 7 and 9, while she went into hospital for the day. The Snow Queen filled up a chunk of the afternoon nicely, and they were still talking about it when I - [Review: The 2015 Beano Annual - Have You Read The Beano Recently? ](https://scottishmum.com/2014/10/review-the-2015-beano-annual-have-you-read-the-beano-recently/) - It's that time of year again folks. Yes, I am mentioning the C Word. Christmas that is. Some will groan at the thought, but I'm pretty well organised this year. I have to be, with three kids and two adults with dementia to sort out. Thanks to the lovely folks at Beano, who've sent us - [Giveaway: Every Day Card Kits from Stampin Up - Ends 10th November at Midnight](https://scottishmum.com/2014/10/giveaway-every-day-card-kits-from-stampin-up-ends-10th-november-at-midnight/) - Welcome to the run up to Christmas. Stampin Up have offered me three lovely card kits to run as a giveaway. Three readers will receive one kit each as a prize. These every day card kits are gorgeous. You can use them to make up cards for lots of different occasions. With Christmas - [Did you drink alcohol when you were pregnant? Do your kids misbehave? Read on..](https://scottishmum.com/2013/01/did-you-drink-alcohol-when-you-were-pregnant-do-your-kids-misbehave-read-on/) - Ok, the Daily Mail isn't my favourite newspaper and this is one topic that will always be close to my heart (and the blog). That aside, a friend showed me an article from today on page 15. In a nutshell, it is talking about the prevalence of children in our society who are affected - [Scottish Independence Is Dead - For Now!](https://scottishmum.com/2014/09/scottish-independence-is-dead-for-now/) - 1.30am As I start to write this, I have no clue what the result of the Scottish Independence vote will be. To be honest, I don't think it really matters, even though it will be history in about seven hours or so. As an exercise in dividing the nations, it's done a sterling job. Many - [The One With The Disabled Space Jobsworth](https://scottishmum.com/2014/09/the-one-with-the-disabled-space-jobsworth/) - Some of you reading will know my mother is diabetic and has lots of other things going on, as well as the arthritis and now dementia taking hold. My car has been playing up this week. Sometimes the central locking works and sometimes it doesn't. Today, I broke the only physical key lock on the - [The EU has got to be kidding! Wattage restrictions for household appliances! Give me a break!](https://scottishmum.com/2014/09/the-eu-has-got-to-be-kidding-wattage-restrictions-for-household-appliances-give-me-a-break/) - You'd think it would be easy to buy a dirt sucker upper wouldn't you? It slipped being imprinted on my mind with all that's been going on at home recently. Today, I went to look for a vacuum cleaner. A petty thing in the grand scheme of keeping heads above water, but the right ones - [Sophisticated Suppers: Persuading your kids to eat unusual foods.](https://scottishmum.com/2013/08/sophisticated-suppers-persuading-your-kids-to-eat-unusual-foods-2/) - This post was written in collaboration with Supersavvyme. If your children can't resist snacking between meals or just can't bear to eat without slathering their food in tomato ketchup, you're not alone. Young picky eaters are common in households all over the country, not helped by the availability of fast food and those occasions where you don't have a - [Review: New Coca-Cola Life (New Product)](https://scottishmum.com/2014/08/review-new-coca-cola-life-new-product/) - Coca Cola asked if we'd like to try the new Coca Cola Life. They've replaced some of the sugar with stevia for the first time so there is a third less sugar and a third fewer calories. The cans are green and quite distinctive and tempting to buy for the kids instead of the full - [Home Grown Vegetables From The Plot This Week](https://scottishmum.com/2014/07/home-grown-vegetables-from-the-plot-this-week/) - Our plot is beginning to mature, and in its third year, our crop is getting bigger and bigger. The man tends to be the one who keeps it up so I do need to get more pictures of how it looks now. For now, I have the pictures of the fruit and vegetables we took - [Review: Sports Socks that DON'T Fall Down](https://scottishmum.com/2013/12/review-sports-socks-that-dont-fall-down/) - Little grippers are the sports socks that don't fall down. Thanks to a special material in the top, they stay up - all the time. I've lost count of the amount of times I've watched football matches with my kids and the kids seem to spend as much time pulling their socks up as they - [Silent Sunday - Big Waves](https://scottishmum.com/2011/07/silent-sunday-8/) - [Silent Sunday - Dog in Glasses](https://scottishmum.com/2011/07/silent-sunday-7/) - [Review: Weight Watchers New Dark Chocolate Digestives](https://scottishmum.com/2014/06/review-weight-watchers-new-dark-chocolate-digestives/) - We've had some Weight Watchers Biscuits to try recently. The new Dark Chocolate Digestives are only 51 calories each. Regular Dark Chocolate digestives tend to come in around 80+ calories, so it's a big difference per biscuit. The ProPoints value is 1 per biscuit and they are free from artificial flavours and preservatives, as well - [Taking Care of our FEET](https://scottishmum.com/2014/06/taking-care-of-our-feet/) - Did you know there are 26 bones and more than a hundred muscles, tendons and ligaments in our feet? Don't forget the 33 joints that hold them all together. This picture isn't my feet, but look at them, and consider just how much work they do each and every day of our lives. Each one - [Tech Decks and Flick Trix](https://scottishmum.com/2010/10/tech-decks-and-flick-trix/) - It's that time of year again when shops are starting to take away all the year long staple items on their shelves,and replacing them with glittery, twinkling and shiny temptations for Christmas. This year though, one of the hardest toys to find locally are the Tech Deck and Flick Trix finger trick skateboards and bikes. In - [Giveaway: Tikkers Watch or Mr Men Watch Gift Set for Kids. Ends 13th December 2013](https://scottishmum.com/2013/11/giveaway-tikkers-watch-or-mr-men-watch-gift-set-for-kids-ends-13th-december-2013/) - My boys recently got some very cool watches to review. We received two Tikkers watches and a Mr Men Mr Strong Gift Watch Gift Set. The Tikkers watches are amazingly boyish with the bright skulls and suit my boys down to a tee. Tikkers and Mr Men Watches can be found in Debehhans, H Samuel, - [How To Dry Fry Food - Dry Frying Is The New Health Kick](https://scottishmum.com/2014/02/how-to-dry-fry-food-dry-frying-is-the-new-health-kick/) - Move over fat fryers, there's an alternative method of cooking in town, and it doesn't need extra utensils or equipment. I've fried dry for a long time, but I didn't actually realise dry fry was an actual termed method of frying. What Is Dry Frying? Many of you probably dry fry some meats. If you - [Health Benefits of Eating Lamb](https://scottishmum.com/2013/11/health-benefits-of-eating-lamb/) - We all like to look for dishes that give us wholesome food for the family. Lamb is meat from a young sheep and often available in different cuts to suit different methods of cooking. It's also possible to get lamb mince that we can use to make our own meatballs, burgers and patties. In response - [Children And The Music Machines ](https://scottishmum.com/2013/05/children-and-the-soft-porn-music-machines/) - Who really stops and thinks when they're passwording their Internet and thinking they're being clever by saying their kids can't get access to anything untoward in our homes? I remember duly locking down my kids Facebook, our browsers and the Apple gadgets, only to be faced with an afternoon of gyrating by way of our - [Sneaky Pamper Days: Canine Hydrotherapy](https://scottishmum.com/2013/06/pamper-days-hydrotherapy-for-holly/) - What's that's I hear you ask. Canine hydrotherapy??? Well, it isn't for me, nor for the kids, but my old and blind lab still has a huge passion for life and still wants and needs exercise, lots of cuddles and some fun to go with it. She deserves a little pampering in her old - [The Great Family Road Trip - My Scottish Favourites](https://scottishmum.com/2013/07/visiting-eating-and-staying-in-scotland/) - Tesco Magazine asked bloggers for our favourite recommendations for the best places to visit, eat and stay around the UK. As we're mobile with our own home from home, we tour around Scotland regularly and there are always lots of things to see and do in our local area. We don't have much in the way - [Giveaway: Multi-Coloured Xmas Lights Worth £17.99 - 2 Sets to Give Away - Ends 15th Dec 2012](https://scottishmum.com/2012/11/giveaway-multi-coloured-xmas-lights-worth-17-99-2-sets-to-give-away-ends-15th-dec-2012/) - Who can resist the lure of pretty lights when it's coming up to some lovely time off work, and the planning for Christmas and all it's celebrations? There is just something magical about seeing lots of different coloured lights twinkling away in windows on the cold wintry nights. They bring thoughts of warmth, cheer, and - [Review: The Three Stooges - Released on Blu Ray and DVD on 11th February 2013](https://scottishmum.com/2013/02/review-the-three-stooges-released-on-blu-ray-and-dvd-on-11th-february-2013/) - Thank you to Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment for the review copy. You can watch the trailer here. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z4IoUo_ZJkY&feature=youtu.be We were sent a pre-release to DVD and Blu-Ray copy of the Three Stooges. It's a slapstick version of the version I used to watch when I was younger. The kids were enthralled from the - [Sponsored Posts & Reviews Using Free Wordpress Blogs - Not Allowed](https://scottishmum.com/2013/03/sponsored-posts-reviews-using-free-wordpress-blogs-not-allowed/) - I was asked a question today so I thought I should look up the answer quickly. It was a simple one and as I've never used the free blogging platforms, it's not one that I had paid any attention to in the past. All she wanted to know was if it was within WordPress.com - [Guest Post: Redecorating your child’s bedroom on a budget.](https://scottishmum.com/2012/06/guest-post-redecorating-your-childs-bedroom-on-a-budget/) - This is a lovely featured guest post with some handy tips on redecorating a child's bedroom. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ As parents we'd love to give our kids the best of everything, but unfortunately more too often our hearts say one thing and our purse strings another. As our children grow older one thing that must also grow - [Aberdonian Musician Gordon Duthie](https://scottishmum.com/2012/08/aberdonian-musician-gordon-duthie/) - I recently received a copy of the début album of Gordon Duthie, an indie folk singer in Aberdeen. As a young man in the music scene, it looks like he will go a long way in his chosen genre. The album boasts ten tracks which range from the mean and moody to the alternative - [Unpicking Parenting Ideology: understanding the power of 'memes', by Shanta Everington](https://scottishmum.com/2012/09/unpicking-parenting-ideology-understanding-the-power-of-memes-by-shaunta-everington/) - A guest post today from Shanta Everington. I know what I think of the methods of some parenting gurus, but we all have to make up our own minds without influencing others, don't we. An interesting piece, from a writer who is passionate about choice. Shanta Everington is the author of four published books, including - [Chocolate is GOOD FOR YOU](https://scottishmum.com/2012/10/chocolate-is-good-for-you/) - Unwrapping a lovely gift for my birthday, I eagerly opened the layers while anticipating a nice box of perfume or a little trinket. Three faces beaming with delight stood in front of me, and I kept the smile frozen on my face as the last layer came adrift, to the sight of my favourite - [Guest Recipe: Seafood Broth from Graeme Taylor](https://scottishmum.com/2012/04/guest-recipe-seafood-broth-from-graeme-taylor/) - Guest Recipe from Graeme Taylor of Scots Larder, and also found on Twitter as @scotslarder --------------------------------------------- I love seafood, you can't beat it for freshness, flavour and for sheer enjoyment of experimentation and it goes so well with so many ingredients, it complements chorizo, and the fresh herbs and white wine make it zing. It's also - [PayPal Access Card - A Newish Service for Bloggers](https://scottishmum.com/2012/04/paypal-access-card-a-newish-service-for-bloggers/) - Those of us who blog and accept adverts, features and reviews tend to use PayPal as our preferred method of payment by PR's and Companies. PayPal means that we don't have to issue our bank details to the many strangers who contact us to do some work for them. Yes, we pay a fee for - [NaNoWriMo - What is in it for me?](https://scottishmum.com/2010/11/nanowrimo-what-is-in-it-for-me/) - If you have been watching a twitter or facebook stream in the last couple of days, you will have seen much about a thing called nanowrimo. Today is day 2 of nanowrimo. For my sins, I have decided to take part in this years event. It is run in November and is based around National Novel - [Disability Injustice and Cuts to Services](https://scottishmum.com/2011/01/disability-injustice-and-cuts-to-services/) - I was absolutely astounded to read the case of Riven Vincent, but not surprised. In case you have not yet heard of her, or read the news over the last couple of days, she has asked social services for residential care for her daughter, as she can no longer cope at home. She asked for additional - [Education Cuts & Protecting the Vulnerable - Budget 2011/2012 - Aberdeen](https://scottishmum.com/2011/02/education-cuts-protecting-the-vulnerable-budget-20112012-aberdeen/) - 10th November was the day that the council in Aberdeen voted once again on the budget cuts. The statement is here for anyone local to Aberdeen http://www.aberdeencity.gov.uk/council_tax_benefits/council_tax_home.asp As with the other statements which will be being released up and down the country, they make for quite light reading, touching on issues, and promising to deliver on what looks like - [Chocolate Brownie - Blind Bakeathon - Scottish Mum Style](https://scottishmum.com/2011/10/chocolate-brownie-blind-bakeathon-scottish-mum-style/) - I couldn't get the internet to work, so I decided to bake a batch of brownies. The only problem was that I didn't have all the right ingredients for it, so I compromised - Do you think it worked? Ingredients 190g unsalted butter 185g chocolate (I had half Galaxy and half cooking chocolate) 130g plain - [Sponsored: Saving Money on Energy Costs with Eon](https://scottishmum.com/2013/11/sponsored-saving-money-on-energy-costs-with-eon/) - The one thing that is never far from the minds of most of us in winter is just how much it's going to cost us in energy to keep our homes nice and toasty. Last year, we had a spell where our heating broke down and it was a very cold winter that we found - [100 Posts of 100 Words for Save The Children](https://scottishmum.com/2011/09/100-posts-of-100-words-for-save-the-children/) - Save The Children #Healthworkers After a tweet from Blue Bear Wood , I have taken up the challenge that she sent me, to write a post of at least 100 words for Save The Children. I don't have a great healthcare story to tell, but I do agree with the support needed cross our globe. In - [UK - Competition / Giveaway - Win an LG 11kg Steam Direct Drive Washing Machine worth £876 !!!!!!](https://scottishmum.com/2012/02/uk-competition-giveaway-win-an-lg-11kg-steam-direct-drive-washing-machine-worth-876/) - If you are anything like us as a family, finding new things for children to do can be daunting and very difficult at the same time. Lots of us try to think up new ways to keep our children happy, and to give them the opportunity to have fun while making lovely new things that - [The Kids Brain Blasterz Review of Sours](https://scottishmum.com/2013/09/the-kids-brain-blasterz-review-of-sours/) - Littlest received his Brain Blasterz for review and the box had his name on it. He was intrigued, in awe and it put a right smile on his face to get something in the post that was actually for him. The sours craze seems to be going through lots of kids at the moment. I've - [Review: Charge Key and Charge Card](https://scottishmum.com/2014/05/review-charge-key-and-charge-card/) - I've had these for a wee while now. It's about time to let you know how I found them. The CHARGEKEY and CHARGECARD were sent for us to try out by NOMAD. The key part fits onto my keyring and means that as long as I can get access to a USB port of a USB - [Saying Goodbye To Blog Rankings](https://scottishmum.com/2014/05/saying-goodbye-to-blog-stats/) - I made a decision today. It's mostly based around the time aspect, and more importantly, around how I feel about it. For a few years, I've been a member, and taken part in some lovely blogging groups which have blog stats. I didn't really care where I sat in the stats, as the blog just - [Check Your Credit Card Transactions NOW](https://scottishmum.com/2014/05/check-your-credit-card-transactions-now/) - I think as bloggers, we are often at risk of more online potentially threatening situations, just by the way that we make transactions online and often use credit cards to pay for things on our blogs. I've been targeted, and it's possible that the attack and interception of details came from WooThemes.com, but it's not 100%. - [The Allotment / Plot Is Under Way for 2014](https://scottishmum.com/2014/04/the-allotment-plot-is-under-way-for-2014/) - We have an allotment, but we call it the plot. It's great for the kids and it means they get to know the origins of our fruit and vegetables in life. It's good for middler as he gets to potter in dirt and keeps the garden for being a garden. It also means the hub - [Who'd Love a Giant Vending Machine?](https://scottishmum.com/2014/03/whod-love-a-giant-vending-machine/) - Thanks to F Stop Press for allowing me to use their images. I just had to comment after spotting the story on the news yesterday about the Giant Vending Machine that engineer Peter Fox invented for himself because he couldn't get a manufacturer to make one. It's classed in the line of Automatic Shops, - [Review: Hotel Chocolat - Festive Wreath](https://scottishmum.com/2012/11/review-hotel-chocolat-festive-wreath/) - I could pretend that I don't like to be offered nice little things to try in the name of reviews, and many I don't like to take on, but when I get the chance to try something grown up for me AND involves gorgeous goodies from Hotel Chocolat, there is no way that I - [We're all going to die !!!!!](https://scottishmum.com/2014/04/were-all-going-to-die/) - Long term readers of my blog will know that I have adopted children, one of whom has full-blown foetal alcohol syndrome and is in a dedicated special school, where he is now settled after a few years of sad instability at the hands of the education department staff. He is now 12 years old and - [Win Maw Broon's Cooking With Bairns - Closes 30th April 2014 at Midnight](https://scottishmum.com/2014/04/win-maw-broons-cooking-with-bairns-closes-30th-april-2014-at-midnight/) - I have two of these and I've just found out that the sister in law who I would have given it to for Christmas bought it after seeing my version. Rather than just give it away to someone I don't know, I thought someone who reads my blog might get the good of it. Enjoy. - [Mothers Day With McCains Special Roast Potatoes](https://scottishmum.com/2014/03/mothers-day-with-mccains-special-roast-potatoes/) - Mothers Day food yesterday was courtesy of McCains to try their new roasties. The NEW Special Roast Potatoes are made from the very best King Edward potatoes cut into generous chunks and basted in sumptuous beef dripping. They are really really good. I put on both bags and by the end of mealtime, there were - [Review and Giveaway: Thomas Kitchen Knives From Tesco - Closing Date: 1st June 2014](https://scottishmum.com/2014/03/review-and-giveaway-thomas-kitchen-knives-from-tesco-closing-date-1st-june-2014/) - I've been attempting to take part in the Tesco Blogger Challenge recently, which meant I had to try my hand at vegetable carving. In the end, I've had to give up as it seem that my skills really do not lie in carving vegetables. I tried mushrooms and tomatoes and although I could slice and - [AFC - Scottish League Cup Winners 2014 - The Sheep Are On Fire](https://scottishmum.com/2014/03/afc-scottish-league-cup-winners-2014-the-sheep-are-on-fire/) - For the first time in 19 years, the cup came to Aberdeen Football Club. I remember the last time our local team won it and I took my kids down to see the parade this time round. It started here: the win against Inverness Caley Thistle at Celtic Park where the sheep won 4:2 on - [Featured Guest Post: Four Great Home Burger Ideas](https://scottishmum.com/2014/03/featured-guest-post-four-great-home-burger-ideas/) - A favourite of pub, restaurant and café menus across the country, the burger is one of the most satisfying and hearty meals around. Kids love the tasty flavours and the French fries that often go with them, making them a great choice for easy home dinners. Plus, by making them yourself, you can quickly and - [Win Kapersky Internet Security For A Year (Multi-Device) Closing Date 30th March at Midnight](https://scottishmum.com/2014/03/win-kapersky-internet-security-for-a-year-multi-device-closing-date-30th-march-at-midnight/) - I try very hard to keep viruses out of my Computer system, which is why I am always happy to help when a well known Internet Security Company begins to talk to me. I don't think enough of us take our online security seriously enough and anything that helps us to stay safe is a - [Happy Mothers Day: Sunday 30th March 2014](https://scottishmum.com/2014/03/happy-mothers-day-sunday-30th-march-2014/) - I used to think of Mothers Day being a little like Christmas for Mums. Now I've grown up, I appreciate every little thing that anyone does for me on any day, and hope I will be pampered just a little bit on that one day a year we are meant to get a break. It - [The Gallery - Frightfully Over](https://scottishmum.com/2012/11/the-gallery-frightful/) - (Sadly I had to remove the image from this blog post as it was being hotlinked to from a Chinese website where the man said they were his kids). I'm actually quite sad that my kids are not really wanting to do much of the Halloween type things this year. I can probably safely say - [Review: Cawston Press Apple & Summer Berry + Apple & Blackcurrant](https://scottishmum.com/2014/02/review-cawston-press-apple-summer-berry-apple-blackcurrant/) - Cawston Press sent us some samples for the kids to try. From the Kids Blend Pressed Fruit which is shaken up with a bit of water, we were sent: Apple & Summer Berries Apple & Blackcurrant I tried the Apple & Summer Berries and was pleasantly surprised how refreshing it was in a glass with - [15 Uses for Coconut Oil](https://scottishmum.com/2014/02/15-uses-for-coconut-oil/) - I'm, a coconut freak. It's been one of the constants in my life for a couple of decades or more and it's multi purpose abilities means that I've found it handy. I used to buy mine online in quantities of 6 tubs of 500 grammes at a time. I can now buy it supermarkets, so - [Sponsored: Are You Driving Home for Christmas?](https://scottishmum.com/2012/11/sponsored-are-you-driving-home-for-christmas/) - As December gets ever closer there is one thing we can be sure off, the weather is going to make driving pretty dangerous. But for the vast majority of people the school run and getting to work are essential journeys, which just can’t be avoided no matter what the weather is like. So here are - [Silent Sunday - 12 May 2013](https://scottishmum.com/2013/05/silent-sunday-12-may-2013/) - [Infographic: The Story Book World of Sleep](https://scottishmum.com/2012/10/infographic-the-story-book-world-of-sleep/) - This Infographic by Wooden-Beds.com gives tips on getting to sleep and staying in land of nod. It talks about what sleep is, and how we can get better sleep. It even mentioned the little used word, somniphobia. If you don't know what that is, just read on to find out more. It's a bit like - [Review: How Cool Are Your Trainers ](https://scottishmum.com/2013/05/review-how-cool-are-your-trainers/) - I don't know about everyone else, but when my boys get their feet in a pair of trainers, they really don't last for terribly long. The hardwearing ground they pound daily - along with endless hard leather ball kicking takes its toll on cheap trainers, and they tend to last less than a fortnight. - [Strawberry, Peach & Pear Smoothie](https://scottishmum.com/2012/05/strawberry-peach-pear-smoothie/) - We can make this all fresh, or all tinned, or a mixture of both. The boys wanted some fruity smoothie and I didn't have enough of any one thing to made a dedicated smoothie, so we experimented with the left over strawberries that we had, and a tub of peaches and pears in juice from - [Guest Recipe: Vodka and Tonic Battered Fish & Wedges](https://scottishmum.com/2012/04/guest-recipe-vodka-and-tonic-battered-fish-wedges/) - Todays Guest Post is from theperfectbadmummy.wordpress.com, who is @mrsaimeehorton on Twitter. Her recipe for vodka and tonic battered fish & wedges is not something I would have ever thought to try, but it sounds very tempting to give a go. -------------------- Food for 2 I get a little bit excited when I learn a new kitchen “skill”. - [Frugal Tips For Any Scottish Family](https://scottishmum.com/2013/03/frugal-tips-for-any-scottish-family/) - I've always spent time with the kids making sure they salt a few pennies away for when they're older, and I think it's something that we do tend to do when we have kids. My kids have their wee bank accounts that we opened 7 years ago and they put half of any birthday and Christmas - [Review: Benefits Of Green Tea](https://scottishmum.com/2014/02/review-benefits-of-green-tea/) - Green tea on its own is definitely something that seems to take a little time to get used to. I've been given it to try for a few weeks, and I've used it for just over a week now, and said I'd report back on it. teapigs calls their 100% organic green tea leaves - [Review: Hotel Chocolat Signature Christmas Collection](https://scottishmum.com/2013/11/review-hotel-chocolat-signature-christmas-collection/) - Hotel Chocolat sent us a box of their Signature Christmas Collection to try. The box is gorgeous and my boys eyes were all agog when they saw it. It's a classy box with a lovely texture and looks reassuringly expensive. There are a mixture of white, dark and milk chocolate with a focus mostly on - [Silent Sunday - 23nd February 2014 ](https://scottishmum.com/2014/02/silent-sunday-23-february-2014/) - [Silent Sunday - 09 February 2014 ](https://scottishmum.com/2014/02/silent-sunday-09-february-2014-2/) - [Guest Post - How much money can I save by switching energy provider?](https://scottishmum.com/2012/03/guest-post-how-much-money-can-i-save-by-switching-energy-provider/) - This is a featured guest post. Who couldn't use a little extra advice these days about their energy costs. --- With energy prices still rising from the big six suppliers, it’s hard to know exactly how much you should be spending on your energy bill – and, more importantly, how to lower that. There are - [Silent Sunday - 26 January 2014 ](https://scottishmum.com/2014/01/silent-sunday-26-january-2014/) - [Guest Post - Cash in the attic? Turn unwanted items into extra pocket money.](https://scottishmum.com/2012/03/featured-guest-post-cash-in-the-attic-turn-unwanted-items-into-extra-pocket-money/) - This is a Featured Guest Post, and it makes sense to look at our old dusty belongings that simply ship from home to home with us when we move. Perhaps these dusty old relics could be put to better use, and really turn into cash in the attic. -- Many people feel that to make a house a home, - ["Burns Nicht" (Doric Poem for Robert Burns "Burns Night")](https://scottishmum.com/2011/01/burns-nicht-doric-poem-for-robert-burns-burns-night/) - Hive ye iver wonnered fit thon Burns Nicht wis a aboot, an fit they did. Read oan fir hoo them that likes tae celebrate Rabbie Burns birthday wi a supper dae it. Eence mair comes roon the 25th, the birthday o the baird Fir Rabbie's supper eence agin, the tartan clamored laird A ower the - [How To Cook A Haggis](https://scottishmum.com/2014/01/how-to-cook-a-haggis/) - Being Scottish through and through, I'm often asked how to cook a haggis. If you can stomach this popular dish, then you may find you really do like it. Haggis is usually a little spicy with a mealy texture. Traditionally, a haggis was made up of the heart, liver and lungs of a sheep or - [Silent Sunday - 19 January 2014 ](https://scottishmum.com/2014/01/silent-sunday-19-jan-2014/) - [A Visit to Ullapool, Scotland - And The Seaforth Restaurant Review](https://scottishmum.com/2013/04/a-visit-to-ullapool-scotland-and-the-seaforth-restaurant/) - We took a day trip from the East Coast Scotland at Dornoch, over to the West Coast at Ullapool for a day trip. It took a little longer than expected to get there given that the trip really included a fair hike across some nice high hills. With a rather big 4 x 4, hills - [Review: St Duthus Hotel Restaurant, Tain, Scotland](https://scottishmum.com/2013/04/review-st-duthus-hotel-restaurant-tain/) - While up visiting Dornoch and the local area, we decided to pop in for an evening meal at the St Duthus Hotel in Tain. If I had to rate the restaurant on effort, decor and friendliness of staff, it would be a five-star all round from the Scottish Mum family. As it was, the food - [Bloggers Saving Lives - Share Niger - Child 6 - Welcome Hapsatou](https://scottishmum.com/2012/07/bloggers-saving-lives-share-niger-child-6-welcome-hapsatou/) - A warm welcome to Hapsatou from the Child 6 team, organised by @merrilyme to sponsor children for #shareniger on Twitter. I've previously blogged about the campaign and the journey by Sian To to Niger earlier this year. Read more here. The campaign has so far managed to raise enough money to sponsor 11 children and - [Conquering my fear of couch sport to watch the Paralympics coming soon?](https://scottishmum.com/2012/08/conquering-my-fear-of-couch-sport-to-watch-the-paralympics-coming-soon/) - Having 3 boys and a man in the house means that I tend to be in a place of mummydom dread, fear and anxiety when it comes to sport on the TV. I can think of nothing closer to the ear-splitting sound of scratching fingernails down a blackboard than having to watch a dry run - [Silent Sunday - 02 September 2012](https://scottishmum.com/2012/09/silent-sunday-02-september-2012/) - [Kids Make Chicken Fillets Decorative](https://scottishmum.com/2012/10/kids-make-chicken-fillets-decorative/) - I decided to let the kids get creative with their supper. They were not liking how it looked on the plate when they got a plateful of Costco Chicken Fillets with some stir fried veg for supper. This is how dads plate looked when it was dished up. While not impressed, they decided to - [Silent Sunday - 18th November 2012](https://scottishmum.com/2012/11/silent-sunday-18th-november-2012/) - [Silent Sunday - 28th October 2012](https://scottishmum.com/2012/10/silent-sunday-28th-october-2012/) - [The Gallery - Books](https://scottishmum.com/2012/10/books/) - I thought I'd join in the Gallery Blog Link Up this week. It's been a long week and a half off school with the kids, and they're going a bit stir crazy as they're grounded. One thing that can always help to diffuse things with the special needs middler is to sit and read a - [Misery, Pain and Trauma in the News](https://scottishmum.com/2012/10/misery-pain-and-trauma-in-the-news/) - Reading the news can be a troublesome event. Before I even open the app, or the newspaper, or even switch on the radio, we're faced with mostly the stories of the darkest deprivation and the most miserable things that can happen by the worst sorts of people on our planet. J#m#y S#v#le This week, the - [R.I.P Lady Thatcher](https://scottishmum.com/2013/04/r-i-p-lady-thatcher/) - Driving along Union Street we were faced with board after board after board with the huge letters instilling fear into everyone who had taken out a mortgage in the last few years. Suburbs became festooned with placards stuck into grass, onto windows, and at the end of roads. "For Sale" As a young adult, the - [Scotty Brand Coleslaw and Potato Salad](https://scottishmum.com/2013/04/scotty-brand-coleslaw-and-potato-salad/) - Scotty Brand were kind enough to send us some of their newly available Scottish Coleslaw and Scottish Potato Salad. We buy a lot of coleslaw as it's just so much easier than making it, but I find many potato salads very vinegary and tend not to buy them. Scotty Brand potato salad was - [WordPress Brute Force Attack Advice](https://scottishmum.com/2013/04/wordpress-brute-force-attack-advice/) - None of us can sit totally on our laurels and think we're safe from any hack on any website. The hackers don't care if we're large or small, they just want to use our webspace. There's been a lot of talk about what to do to protect ourselves from Brute Force attacks, and while - [Guest Post - Should you pay for your teen's car insurance?](https://scottishmum.com/2012/02/guest-post-should-you-pay-for-your-teens-car-insurance/) - This is a featured guest post from Sainsbury's Finance Money Matters Blog …................. Should you pay for your teen’s car insurance? Teenage drivers are the most expensive to insure. So when they get behind the wheel, it represents the beginning of a costly period for either parent or child. The question is, should you foot the bill - [What to do about head lice and nits.](https://scottishmum.com/2012/04/what-to-do-about-head-lice-and-nits/) - You know the feeling when your child comes home from school, or club, with a nits and lice letter. Your heart sinks as you know that you need to give their heads a good going over to make sure they don't have headlice. At the same time, you smugly know that someone, somewhere in their - [Crock-Pot 3.5 Litre Slow Cooker Review](https://scottishmum.com/2012/09/crock-pot-3-5-litre-slow-cooker-review/) - I do have to say that I already have 2 Slow Cookers that I use regularly, and my big 6.5 Litre one gets used a lot for soups and bigger things. Crock-Pot offered me one of theirs to try, and I accepted the small 3.5 Litre one from them as I wasn't satisfied with the - [Featured Guest Post: 8 Free Fun Activities for Mums to have with Toddlers](https://scottishmum.com/2012/09/guest-post-8-free-fun-activities-for-mums-to-have-with-toddlers/) - Featured Guest Post from Agnese Geka from Agnese Geka - blogger and online marketing consultant for SurveyCompare.net, which is UK's biggest guide through market research companies providing opportunity to earn extra money by working from home. For the latest news updates follow them on twitter and facebook. ---------------------------------------------- How to have Fun with an Empty Purse Seen through a toddler's eyes, - [Warner Bros. Halloween Box for 2012, including Ultraviolet](https://scottishmum.com/2012/11/warner-bros-halloween-box-for-2012-including-ultraviolet/) - Alas, our Halloween box for 2012 was a little late, so I couldn't do a lovely thank you on the 31st October to Warner Bros. It didn't matter for the kids as they were still highly delighted with the box of goodies. I've said it before, and I'll keep saying it that kids never - [Simpson's Restaurant Review - A Meal for Two](https://scottishmum.com/2012/11/simpsons-restaurant-review-a-meal-for-two/) - I had a lovely invite from Simpson's Hotel and Restaurant in Queens Road, Aberdeen. The request was to review a three course meal for two at an evening sitting. It's been a long time since the man and I have been out together, so we decided to accept and happily trotted down to the hotel last - [Border Biscuits Gift Collection Review](https://scottishmum.com/2012/11/border-biscuits-gift-collection-review/) - The people at Border Biscuits sent me a lovely gift box to review. Far from being the traditional box of biscuits, they are both unusual and delicious. Arriving thoughtfully wrapped up in Christmas paper, the boys took one look and immediately knew that it was something they might like. With the wrapping quickly ripped off, - [Featured Post: Going online for the first time is scary for over 50's.](https://scottishmum.com/2013/06/featured-post-going-online-for-the-first-time-is-scary-for-over-50s/) - The confident woman standing in front of me posed first to the right and then to the left. I stood with my camera in hand and giggled while I took her pictures and smiled at her ability to laugh once more. My friend found herself alone in her early fifties with three young children when - [Burns Night is the 25th January - What is it?](https://scottishmum.com/2014/01/burns-night-is-the-25th-january-what-is-it/) - Ye've a heard o Rabbie Burns, the bard o Auld Lang Syne fame haven't ye? I thought we all did. His best known song gets pulled out every Burns Night and New Years Eve as we all link arms and sing the popular year-end anthem. We've visited the birthplace of Robert Burns but sadly we - [Scots Independence - Who Cares!!](https://scottishmum.com/2014/01/scots-independence-who-cares/) - Well, if David Cameron is anything to go by, he does. Somehow, I can't quite believe that. I'm a heathen, or is that an atheist? I'm never quite sure what to call myself, but I believe in very little in the way of religion, nor of politics. At the moment, independence and religion are on - [A Lovely Big Thank You & A Happy New Year](https://scottishmum.com/2014/01/a-lovely-big-thank-you-a-happy-new-year/) - I think it's about time I thanked my readers. I know a lot of you read on your phones or by e-mail as I send out the full post by mail and don't make you come to my blog to read. I'm into my 5th year of blogging and I never expected to still be - [How To Cook Turkey Safely at Christmas](https://scottishmum.com/2013/12/how-to-cook-turkey-safely-at-christmas/) - A family full of retching green faced, doubled over misery is just what we don't want after a slap up xmas day meal, so here are my tips for cooking turkey. Turkey is just like poultry isn't it? Basing an opinion on that, we know that we need to handle how to cook turkey - [Review: Ben 10 Omniverse 2 X-Box Game](https://scottishmum.com/2013/11/review-ben-10-omniverse-2-x-box-game/) - My boys really are x-box fanatics. If they could get away with it, they'd probably spend more time on the x-box than they would doing absolutely anything else at all in their lives. The Ben 10 Omniverse 2 X-box game is the latest instalment of the franchise that sees Ben and his Omnitrix alien forms - [Silent Sunday - 17 November 201](https://scottishmum.com/2013/11/silent-sunday-17-november-2013-2/) - [Win an Unlimited Cinema Card from Cineworld for a year. Ends 9th January 2012](https://scottishmum.com/2012/12/win-an-unlimited-cinema-card-from-cineworld-for-a-year-ends-9th-january-2012/) - As much hard work as it is to get everything ready for Christmas day, it's nothing in comparison to the people who have to spend it alone, for whatever reason. We like to stay together as a family, but I do know people who spend it alone. Friends and family are very important in - [You're a "gobby shite." ](https://scottishmum.com/2013/02/youre-a-gobby-shite/) - With hindsight I could have avoided being the epic parental fail that comes from having too much confidence after one successful outing. With middler in asentia on Tuesday, visiting a play frame went really well. Being exceptionally cocky and suffering a mini brain impediment, I went back with a friend and our kids after after - [Silent Sunday - 03 November 2013](https://scottishmum.com/2013/11/silent-sunday-03-november-2013/) - [Halloween is Coming with Party Goodies ](https://scottishmum.com/2013/10/halloween-is-coming-with-party-goodies/) - My boys have just realised how close it is to Halloween and I've had to promise them that I'll go and get their pumpkins tomorrow. Mine are just at that in-between age when they really don't know if they should go out guising (trick or treating) or not. Middler is still going to want - [Silent Sunday - 20 October 2013](https://scottishmum.com/2013/10/silent-sunday-20-october-2013/) - [Silent Sunday - 13 October 2013](https://scottishmum.com/2013/10/silent-sunday-13-october-2013-2/) - [Fitting In Nicely With Society](https://scottishmum.com/2011/12/fitting-in-nicely-with-society/) - With a special needs child who can't fit in with crowds, we struggle with the regular family holidays where children were meant to fit in with groups of people. He was never made to be held in a small apartment, or to sit by a pool, or even to be able to join in with - [Thinking Slimmer - A New Challenge](https://scottishmum.com/2011/06/thinking-slimmer-a-new-challenge/) - Thinking Slimmer contacted me to see if I would be interested in trying out one of the podcasts that they have to help people to lose weight without dieting. As a blogger, I was aware of the original mum bloggers who trialled the system and I have keenly watched their progress. The programme consists of - [Rainy Day, Long Drive & Brewers Fayre (in Elgin)](https://scottishmum.com/2011/08/brewers-fayre-elgin-meal-review/) - To brighten up yet another rainy, miserable day in the Scottish school holiday season, we decided to take the kids for a nice long drive. Heading off in light rain, we got as far as Nairn when we felt the wrath of Mr Raindrops. We carried on to Inverness, but the rain beat us back, - [Silent Sunday - 6 October 2013](https://scottishmum.com/2013/10/silent-sunday-6-october-2013/) - [COMPETITION : A bloggy chance to win £100 from Appliances Online closes 6th April](https://scottishmum.com/2012/03/cooking-with-children-and-a-bloggy-chance-to-win-100-from-appliances-online/) - -------------------------------- UPDATE: The winner was @jaxbees with the caramel shortcake that my youngest chose as the winner. ------------------------------- Coming home from school today, we decided to stop off past the local shop and buy a few treaty things for the boys. Instead of buying sweeties, we bought some meringue nests, chocolate and fudge icing in - [Silent Sunday - 22nd September 2013](https://scottishmum.com/2013/09/silent-sunday-22-september-2013/) - [Silent Sunday - Puzzlemania](https://scottishmum.com/2011/02/silent-sunday-puzzlemania/) - [Silent Sunday 27/03/11](https://scottishmum.com/2011/03/silent-sunday-27311/) - [Silent Sunday 17/4/11](https://scottishmum.com/2011/04/silent-sunday-17411/) - [Silent Sunday 24/4/11](https://scottishmum.com/2011/04/silent-sunday-24411/) - [Silent Sunday 08/05/11](https://scottishmum.com/2011/05/silent-sunday-080511/) - [Silent Sunday 05/07/11](https://scottishmum.com/2011/06/silent-sunday-050711/) - [Silent Sunday 28/8/11](https://scottishmum.com/2011/08/silent-sunday-28811/) - [Silent Sunday 04 Sept 11](https://scottishmum.com/2011/09/silent-sunday-04-sept-11/) - [Silent Sunday 17th March 2013](https://scottishmum.com/2013/03/silent-sunday-17th-march-2013/) - [Silent Sunday - 28 July 2013.](https://scottishmum.com/2013/09/silent-sunday-28-july-2013-2/) - [Silent Sunday - 28 July 2013](https://scottishmum.com/2013/07/silent-sunday-28-july-2013/) - [Silent Sunday - 8 September 2013](https://scottishmum.com/2013/09/silent-sunday-8-sep-2013/) - [Plot goodies. Eating the old fashioned way. Our recent homegrown vegetable haul.](https://scottishmum.com/2013/09/plot-goodies-eating-the-old-fashioned-way-our-recent-homegrown-vegetable-haul/) - Last Sunday, we had the pleasure of eating lots and lots of green vegetables with our evening meal. Every last one of them had been grown in our plot and were prepared and cooked for our Sunday Lunch. The pictures are not the best as it was really dull and not the best light to - [Kellogg's Rice Krispies Challenge from Britmums](https://scottishmum.com/2012/07/kelloggs-rice-krispie-challenge-from-britmums/) - Kelloggs sent us a big pack of Rice Krispies, with a fab case of colouring pens, colour changers, glitter glues and more. The colouring pack alone has kept my kids entertained for a few days now, and they've rediscovered an enjoyment of colouring in again. Middler has learning difficulties, but he likes to colour in. - [Goodbye Vodafone (your customer service was poor)](https://scottishmum.com/2012/03/goodbye-vodafone-your-service-was-poor/) - To understand the background, after a very frustrating 5 hours on the phone to Vodafone to sort out the ending of our contracts, my other half with red face, and scarcely controlled temper had decided that enough was enough and tried for the second time to finish the current contracts that were actually ending. Apparently, with Vodafone, - [Things I think ALL Parents should know about Foetal Alcohol & ADHD Children.](https://scottishmum.com/2011/09/things-i-think-all-parents-should-know-about-foetal-alcohol-adhd-children/) - This is a cup of coffee and a biscuit type post. Have you ever wondered what behaviour characteristics are common to a lot of disabilities? Many problems, such as Foetal Alcohol and Attachment Disorder, Pervasive Development Disorders and Language Disorders which are common in Adoption have more pronounced issues along the same lines, but - [Ellos - Kids Clothes Review](https://scottishmum.com/2012/06/ellos-kids-clothes-review/) - The Ellos PR offered me £50 to spend on clothes from their website. The online store has a good range of clothes for men, women and for kids. I really was spoiled for choice, but eventually narrowed it down to these lovely trousers and t-shirt, with a pair of bib and brace overalls for the - [Harry Potter Xbox 360 Review - On Kinect](https://scottishmum.com/2012/12/harry-potter-xbox-360-review-on-kinect/) - After a disaster where our Kinect seemed to have vanished into thin air, we had to wait on a new one arriving to be able to use any of our Kinect games. Warner Bros. had sent us a Harry Potter Xbox 360 promotional copy, and my boys were itching to get their fingers on it - [Review: Notcutts Indoor and Outdoor Christmas Lights](https://scottishmum.com/2012/12/review-notcutts-indoor-and-outdoor-christmas-lights/) - Notcutts sent me a lovely box of 200 indoor and outdoor lights to use for our tree. We have some lights, but the boys were determined to put them on the tree as they have several flashing functions on them. We put the tree up last night, and the kids are highly delighted with it, - [Guest Post : Chloe from Cookie Jar Life takes my ticket at Britmums Live in London](https://scottishmum.com/2012/06/guest-post-chloe-from-cookie-jar-life-takes-my-ticket-at-britmums-live-in-london/) - Last weekend was the Brit Mums Live conference event for bloggers. I couldn't make it so I gave my ticket away for someone who wouldn't have been able to go otherwise. Chloe from Cookie Jar Life went instead of me, and I'm not sure how she dealt with having my badge to tootle along all - [My Top 5 iPhone Apps for Blogging. How to keep up blogging on the move.](https://scottishmum.com/2012/05/my-top-5-iphone-apps-for-blogging-how-to-keep-up-blogging-on-the-move/) - There is only one thing that all bloggers like to do, and that is to write. How we write, how often, and how well is not always something that is planned. For spontaneous moments, our mobile pocket gadgetry and good iPhone apps are very handy indeed. Having written about the top iPhone apps for cooking - [A Week In France](https://scottishmum.com/2013/08/a-week-in-france/) - We've just moved on from a week in France, and although we chose a small town to visit, we've been impressed by the supermarkets here. We drove down from Aberdeen, taking three days to get there for the 1100 mile journey and took the P & O ferry as it was so much cheaper during - [Holiday Horrors: Sunburn](https://scottishmum.com/2013/08/holiday-horrors-sunburn/) - Sunburn hurts. A lot. We're in France and on day 2 it was raining and very very cloudy. The boys all took to the pool with gusto and we never thought about topping up the suncream. The result was that we were all slowly being roasted through the clouds. Two of the kids sunburn abated - [Grow Your Own Garden Goodies](https://scottishmum.com/2013/08/grow-your-own-garden-goodies/) - Getting goodies from the garden is always a fab thing to get. We've got a plot and it's great to get fresh stuff. Our plot has grown and grown and grown and although it's the first year, there should hopefully be many years after this to enjoy the goodies. The strawberries looked and tasted great. - [The "Packed Lunch" Debate. Pro-Choice.](https://scottishmum.com/2013/07/the-packed-lunch-debate-pro-choice/) - I saw and read some of the comments and opinions on packed lunches, and those who are both for and against. I have to say that there is a world of difference between the quality and content of packed lunches from school to school and I've heard of really good ones and some really awful - [Blogging Police Sit Back](https://scottishmum.com/2013/07/blogging-police-sit-back/) - Every so often in blogland we see lots of posts around the best way to blog and the top tips of what to do and what not to do. In reality, there are very few real things to avoid. All we have to do is remember to keep the legal aspects of things in check, - [Silent Sunday - 14 July 2013](https://scottishmum.com/2013/07/silent-sunday-14-july-2013-3/) - [Win a 1stFone or OwnFone - Closes 25th July 2013 - Perfect for young children, elderly and disabled.](https://scottishmum.com/2013/07/win-a-1stfone-or-ownfone-closes-25th-july-2013-perfect-for-young-children-elderly-and-disabled/) - In conjunction with 1stFone, I am giving a phone on my blog. It's a fabulous peace of mind gadget for a young child or an elderly person who struggles with regular phones. I wrote about the 1stFone we received a few weeks ago and how great it has been for my special needs boy who - [Silent Sunday - 30 June 2013](https://scottishmum.com/2013/06/silent-sunday-30-june-2013/) - [Review: Who needs a phone for little ones? or for disability? We do....](https://scottishmum.com/2013/06/review-who-needs-a-phone-for-little-ones-or-for-disability-we-do/) - If I listened to all the hype I've heard over the years, I could be forgiven for thinking that mobile phones were the root of all evil and parents giving a mobile phone to a child under the age of 13 should be shot as bad parents of the year. I have never understood how - [Facebook Fears](https://scottishmum.com/2013/03/facebook-fears/) - Facebook "It's where we talk to our families, isn't it?" Yes, and no. Although Facebook is one of the most popular social networks in the world, to use it effectively as a business requires a little bit of time and investment in a Facebook business page to stand out from the crowd. The benefit of - [What's The Alternative to Vet Prescription Charges?](https://scottishmum.com/2013/06/whats-the-alternative-to-vet-prescription-charges/) - Looking at the receipt from the vet nearly made my eyes water. They prescribed 5ml of drops for my old girl for possible glaucoma today, at a price of £51.02 for the meds. I pretty much choked, said that the dog would have to get put down at this rate as I wasn't willing to - [Silent Sunday - 09 June 2013](https://scottishmum.com/2013/06/silent-sunday-09-june-2013/) - [Review: The Nutribox](https://scottishmum.com/2013/05/review-the-nutribox/) - Nutribox offered to send a wee box of delicious nutritious snacks to try. The snacks come boxed and straight to our doors. They have a healthy eating approach to living and they only want to have snacks that are both nutritious and tasty to send out to their customers. All the snacks are gluten - [Silent Sunday - 02 June 2013](https://scottishmum.com/2013/06/silent-sunday-02-june-2013/) - [Silent Sunday - 26 May 2013](https://scottishmum.com/2013/05/silent-sunday-26-may-2013/) - [The Tweeny Teen Effect with Social Media](https://scottishmum.com/2013/05/the-tweeny-teen-effect-with-social-media/) - Teens are infuriating, and tweens and teens who don't follow house rules are even more infuriating. There are times when I wonder if I was hit with a forgetting stick the day that I decided having kids would be a good idea. In among all the good and the not so good comes the infinitely - [A Trip Down Memory Lane. It's Messy.](https://scottishmum.com/2013/05/a-trip-down-memory-lane-its-messy/) - My boys are fine for pictures of the early days of their adoption going online. I don't mind as they are completely unrecognisable now and they love to look through some of them. I will always regret not having a decent camera when they were little and always being so busy that I rarely found - [Silent Sunday - 19 May 2013](https://scottishmum.com/2013/05/silent-sunday-19-may-2013/) - [Why and How to Steam Vegetables](https://scottishmum.com/2013/05/why-and-how-to-steam-vegetables/) - Although we can create steaming recipes which also include meat, poultry and fish, I am going to concentrate on vegetables for this post. It has taken me a long time to be convinced of the goodness that steaming vegetables gives. We can steam in our microwaves, in our specialised pots, or with our stand alone - [A Little Bit of Basic SEO Terms](https://scottishmum.com/2013/05/a-little-bit-of-basic-seo-terms/) - I think lots of us do things very differently when it comes right down to a little SEO. I guess in simple terms, it really comes down to how we write and manage our blog information and content. I don't always get these right (who does), but it's nice to remind myself how it should - [Review: Walkers New Baked Hoops and Crosses](https://scottishmum.com/2013/05/review-walkers-new-baked-hoops-and-crosses/) - According to my kids, there are no crisps like a Walkers crisp. I suspect it has something to do with the Gary Lineker ads that they think are really funny. The person who designed those should have a gold badge for innovation, long-lasting interest and public approval. With our family history of crisps, who - [What would you do with an hour back?](https://scottishmum.com/2013/05/what-would-you-do-with-an-hour-back/) - My kids beds have been changed more often than I'd like. Middler is quite hard on his, and tends to use his as a trampoline, which means a slatted version of any bed is just completely out of the question for us. I think two of my kids are now past the bouncy bouncy stage, although - [5 Things to Remember when Baking with Kids](https://scottishmum.com/2013/05/guest-post-5-things-to-remember-when-baking-with-kids/) - This is a guest post from Chris who writes for one of the child sponsorship charities, World Vision UK.. I'm already linked to World Vision as one of the bloggers who does a sponsor share for a child through their sponsorship scheme. You can find out more about what we bloggers did for that here. - [Help the Scottish SPCA in Scotland ](https://scottishmum.com/2013/05/help-the-sspca-its-not-the-same-as-the-rspca-if-you-live-in-scotland/) - "Mummy, mummy, mummy, can we put some money to the starving doggies." a small child cried many years ago. Looking up the RSPCA, I clicked on how to sign up for a monthly payment. The adverts in the sidebar showed a little picture of an emaciated dog which looked incredibly in pain. I don't - [Do you like your chips baked or fried?](https://scottishmum.com/2013/04/do-you-like-your-chips-baked-or-fried/) - Waking up coughing, I looked on as the door of my bedroom opened and the most gorgeous man I have ever seen in my life walked in through the door. Dressed all in his fireman togs, I was then completely unaware of the rancid black smoke that wafted around him. The hero of my ten-year - [The dog enjoyed the snow...](https://scottishmum.com/2012/04/the-dog-enjoyed-the-snow/) - Snow in Aberdeen, April 2012 - [Project 366 Day 2/365 - Abbamania](https://scottishmum.com/2012/06/project-366-day-2365-abbamania/) - I'd like to bet this boy would never admit to using ABBA on the X-Box.... - [Project 366 Day 3/365 - My old lady resting on the grass.](https://scottishmum.com/2012/06/project-366-day-3365-my-old-lady-resting-on-the-grass/) - I told you there would be lots of my girlie this year. - [Project 366 Day 4/365 - Onions](https://scottishmum.com/2012/06/project-366-day-4365-onions/) - Wondering if these onions will actually grow into anything that is going to be worthy of eating over the summer. - [Project 366 Day 6/365 – My Unknown Plants](https://scottishmum.com/2012/06/project-366-day-6365-my-unknown-plants/) - A friends husband gave us these sapling plants and we have no idea what they are so if you know, please let us know. We've got a fair few of them sitting in the plastic greenhouse at the moment so grow your own vegetables should be interesting. - [Silent Sunday 17/6/2012](https://scottishmum.com/2012/06/silent-sunday-1762012/) - [Project 366. Day 9/365 Sun, sun, sun, here we come.](https://scottishmum.com/2012/06/project-366-day-9365/) - [Project 366 11/365 - Teriyaki Barbeque Spare Ribs](https://scottishmum.com/2012/06/project-366-11365-teriyaki-barbeque-spare-ribs/) - [Silent Sunday & Project 366 10/365](https://scottishmum.com/2012/06/silent-sunday-project-366-10365/) - [Saving Education Services in Aberdeen - Cuts for ASN affect ALL Children](https://scottishmum.com/2010/12/saving-education-services-in-aberdeen-cuts-for-asn-affect-all-children/) - I've become aware of a campaign running to save services for ASN in Aberdeen. What I have read so far is almost unbelievable. Being a parent of ASN, this is something that affects me daily, and is an issue that affects all children in every class when PSA's are taken away. I am not yet - [Communications Shutdown - Autism Awareness - Not for me.](https://scottishmum.com/2010/11/communications-shutdown-autism-awareness-not-for-me/) - Today you might have seen lots of posts, or information about the communication shutdown. It is an appeal to raise awareness of autism and how it affects those affected. Unlike those of us who are neuro-typical, many children on the autistic spectrum have difficulty communicating their feelings and thoughts in an appropriate manner, and in an - [Overweight Children - Whose Fault ??](https://scottishmum.com/2011/01/overweight-children-whose-fault/) - I switched on the TV tonight, and the programme that I stopped at was the Half Ton Teen on Living Channel. The mum states her child is her reason for living, but she is the one going to the supermaket and buying all the hugely fatty foods that her son is eating. The doctor thinks - [Cuts to Services for and of the Disabled](https://scottishmum.com/2011/02/cuts-to-services-for-and-of-the-disabled/) - With one special needs child, and two others who need some assistance at school, but who cope with a little extra support, it fills me with horror to read the stories of what is going on around Scotland this year. The support staff from different authorities seem to be targetted. The cuts are savage, and - [Using kids photos without consent - cool, or not ?](https://scottishmum.com/2011/08/using-kids-photos-without-consent-cool-or-not/) - On twitter today, I have been called names because I don't think that its right to post photos of other people's children online in recognisable photos on the public internet without asking their parents if its ok to do so. It's simple for me, but not for all. I told what I think is a - [Nurse Suspended for Protecting Boy in Aberdeen](https://scottishmum.com/2013/01/nurse-suspended-for-protecting-boy-in-aberdeen/) - I read the news this morning, and I really couldn't believe what I was reading. The Scottish Daily Express reported that a community nurse was suspended for taking a boy aged between 3 and 5 and keeping him safe. She had spotted him jumping in and out of a car but with no adult around. - [Three generations of Scottish Mum women at the age of 18 ish.](https://scottishmum.com/2012/03/three-generations-of-scottish-mum-women-at-the-age-of-18-ish/) - Uncovering some family photos, I came across some lovely photographs of my grandmother, that I have not seen in years. We don't have many photographs as a family, and there are so few of me that it is shocking. I will go to my grave, as almost the faceless entity, mother of 3 adopted children. - [Mothers Day - Crafty Tealight Candlemaking Tips for Mothers Day Gift Ideas](https://scottishmum.com/2012/03/mothers-day-crafty-tealight-candlemaking-tips-for-mothers-day-gift-ideas/) - Making sure our mothers get a present that is fit for the fabulous job that they all do, is difficult. Often, it is the time spent on making something that is more important than what it is that they have received. How can we give our lovely mums something different? Making handmade gifts lets your - [Celebrities joined forces with Young Epilepsy to launch My Purple Pledge](https://scottishmum.com/2012/03/celebrities-join-forces-with-young-epilepsy-to-launch-my-purple-pledge/) - Did you know that 112,000 young people in the UK are living with epilepsy? Young epilepsy released a flagship campaign called "My Purple Pledge" this month, to help make a difference. "My Purple Pledge" day was 26 March 2012, and it was to build up for the international day to mark epilepsy awareness and National Epilepsy - [Making Tealights - Coco Mango and Tangerine](https://scottishmum.com/2012/04/tealights-coco-mango-and-tangerine/) - I made very strongly scented Coco Mango Tangerine and Fresh Linen Tealights to burn yesterday afternoon. The smells are amazing. If you want to make your own, follow the instructions on the Mothers Day Blog Post. Be sure to let me know how your candles turned out. - [Wordpress Back Up Lesson - Do you back up?](https://scottishmum.com/2011/11/wordpress-backup-lesson-do-you-back-up/) - With the possibility of losing my whole blog when I updated a plugin earlier this week, I had to make some emergency plans for backing up my whole website and not just my database which is all that my host will allow me to easily back up. Looking for how to back up a Wordpress - [Using Images on Your Blog and Social Media](https://scottishmum.com/2013/02/using-images-on-your-blog-and-social-media/) - This blog post is my opinion only and does not constitute legal advice. Please consult a solicitor if you need to know more or feel you have been affected by copyright law. We're all uploading images to our websites, blogs and social media profiles, but are we all doing it legally? So many people seem - [Groupcall - School Messaging Systems 4 Missing Kids](https://scottishmum.com/2013/04/groupcall-downside-of-school-messaging-systems-4-kids-awol/) - A couple of weeks ago, a child of mine went to his first morning class and then disappeared. The school office were notified and nearly two hours later, they sent me a text by Groupcall. This child is struggling at school and finding it hard to get through some days. Groupcall is the messaging system - [Budget Versus Quality Food ](https://scottishmum.com/2013/03/budget-versus-quality-food/) - Just by choosing to eat some cheap ingredients, it doesn't mean that we have to eat tasteless and horribly boring food. Cheap ingredients mixed with slightly more expensive ones can make us some fantastically wonderful meal options if they are combined in the right proportions. As a family, we tend to eat much of the - [50 Things To Do Before you're 11 ¾ - Easter is Coming](https://scottishmum.com/2013/03/50-things-to-do-before-youre-11-¾-easter-is-coming/) - What's 50 Things about? The National Trust aims to get our pampered and cosseted kids out in the great outdoors. We all know how important it is to get our kids outdoors but too many kids are still sitting inside when they could be out and about doing what kids should be doing. When my - [Review: Argo from Warner Bros.](https://scottishmum.com/2013/03/review-argo-from-warner-bros/) - Thanks to Warner Bros. for the review copy of Argo. It's fabulous viewing if you like this sort of thing and I do. This movie gives a whole new meaning to the great escape stories of post war times. Without giving away too many details that might spoil it for you, it's set in Iran - [Mothers Day Giveaway from Interflora - Ends Sunday 27th March](https://scottishmum.com/2011/03/mothers-day-giveaway-from-interflora-ends-sunday-27th-march/) - Sponsored Post I arrived home to find a lovely surprise on my doorstep. There were the flowers and box of chocolates that Interflora had sent me to review. When they asked me to review one of their Mothers Day Gifts, I jumped at the chance. We are all mothers, who have mothers, so it is a fantastic - [Eating Out - Childrens' Portions](https://scottishmum.com/2011/04/eating-out-childrens-portions/) - I am guessing that you are all sitting waiting for some huge revelation into the type of food (or packet gunk) that they might be serving up, but no, that is not what has me champing at the bit when we eat out. Picture this Small fingers, trying to manipulate knives and forks that are - [Making Stock Recipes for Slow Cookers Begins With Experimenting](https://scottishmum.com/2012/04/making-stock-recipes-for-slow-cookers-begins-with-experimenting/) - How we make our stock is the difference between good and ok food from our slow cooker recipes. It doesn't matter if we are making soups or casseroles, the basis of good stock makes our meals perfect. Cooking with a slow cooker is easy, but not satisfied with the results I was cajoled and encouraged - [School Lunches - "Healthy" versus "Unhealthy"](https://scottishmum.com/2012/08/school-lunches-healthy-versus-unhealthy/) - With grinning faces, the kids love it if there's pizza, or burgers and chips on the school menu. Granted, the days of lumpy custard have hopefully spent their last ever days gracing the plates of our growing future generation, but for my kids, stodge is what they want from a school dinner in Aberdeen City. - [Why are we so upset about eating horse meat?](https://scottishmum.com/2013/02/why-are-we-so-upset-about-eating-horse-meat/) - With lots of jokes about the horse meat issue facing many of the suppliers of meat in our country, I've found myself mentally checking off the Dalepack, Findus, Tesco, Lidl and Aldi brands of any sort of meat. I know that is actually completely ridiculous, but how many people feel the same way as I - [What Foods Can We Freeze?](https://scottishmum.com/2013/03/what-foods-can-we-freeze/) - Freezing a larger batch is the easiest way to spin out our food and make it last, but not everything freezes nor defrosts well. Dairy Most dairy products will struggle to defrost well. I find that cream will separate and can spoil any food that it is combined with prior to freezing. I have - [The Terms - Shelf Life of Different Types of Food Products](https://scottishmum.com/2013/03/the-shelf-life-of-different-types-of-food-products/) - The shelf life of food is very important, but it's even more important that we actually know what the different terms actually mean. When we deal with fresh foods like meat, fish and poultry, we really need to look at the processes and our handling of it when we get it home. Vegetables are a - [Competition Giveaway – Crystal Deodorant Worth £5 + Ends 23 Jan 2011](https://scottishmum.com/2011/01/competition-giveaway-crystal-deodorant-worth-5-ends-23-jan-2011/) - Over the years, I have spent lots of money, and spent much time in looking for, and trying out new deodorants and anti-perspirants. Last year I found a natural deodorant that worked for me. It is a salt deodorant which has many fantastic properties, and the main one is the lack of things bad for you. - [This is me.](https://scottishmum.com/2011/02/this-is-me-meme-from-tara-at-sticky-fingers/) - Sticky Fingers has challenged us to add a picture that our children have drawn of us. She is compiling them in a linky gallery. In Tara's words: It's so so easy. Ask your child - their age doesn't matter - to draw a picture of you. Post it on your blog. Pass it on to - [Bloggy Reasons to be Cheerful 1,2,3 - Week 6!](https://scottishmum.com/2011/02/bloggy-reasons-to-be-cheerful-123-week-6/) - This is my first go at this so bear with me until I get it sorted. Doing blog hops has not been my speciality yet, and the only one I have tried, ended up with me just messing it up. Here is hoping that I manage to get it right this time. Okay - my - [When will MEN learn to PEE IN the TOILET?](https://scottishmum.com/2011/06/when-will-men-learn-to-pee-in-the-toilet/) - It should have been a wonderful experience. It should have been 8 hours of pampered bliss. After months of anticipation, waiting for the 24th of June to roll around on the way to Cybermummy 11, I tentatively stepped aboard the 7.52 from Aberdeen to head down to London. I was hoping that the trip was going to be full of - [Competition / Giveaway - Do you get travel sick? Sea Bands might help.](https://scottishmum.com/2011/08/competition-giveaway-do-you-get-travel-sick-sea-bands-might-help/) - When the lovely people at Sea Bands got in touch and asked me to review and giveaway some sets of their products, I jumped at the chance as my eldest suffers quite badly from nausea and queasiness when he is in the car. They arrived in a nice white padded envelope and my eldest - [Have You Heard About Software 4 Students ? A Competition Giveaway](https://scottishmum.com/2011/09/have-you-heard-about-software-4-students-a-competition-giveaway/) - I am really excited about this competition. I am going to make this an easy one though, as its so fabulous. Any student can use the Company, which is endorsed by Microsoft as an outlet to sell educational versions of their products. These are NOT the shortened versions that people used to buy for students - [Winner of the £25 Gift Card from Pledd for June](https://scottishmum.com/2011/07/winner-of-the-25-gift-card-from-pledd-for-june/) - Angelika from Pledd offered a £25 gift card for the winner of the competition on my blog. The winner is @mummy_loves Well done. Scottish Mum x - [Competition June 2011 - £25 Gift Card for Pledd.](https://scottishmum.com/2011/06/competition-june-2011-25-gift-card-for-pledd/) - A new competition from Angelika of Pledd. Angelika invited me to have a look around her website and products to decide if I wanted to run a competition on my blog for a £25 gift card. I like the idea of personalised baby blankets as it is such a thoughtful idea. Angelika is offering a £25 gift - [Review: Scooby-Doo! Mask of the Blue Falcon ](https://scottishmum.com/2013/03/review-scooby-doo-mask-of-the-blue-falcon/) - Thanks to Warner Bros. for the review copy of "Scooby Doo Mask of the Blue Falcon." It's a whole new original movie for Scooby Doo fans old and new for 2013. The Mega Mondo Pop Cartoon-a-con is in sunny California for a mystery adventure. There are Herculoids, frankenstein Jr. and Space Gosh with a megabucks - [Review - Nintendo DS Puzzler World 2013 Game](https://scottishmum.com/2013/03/review-nintendo-ds-puzzler-world-2013-game/) - Being asked to review this game was no hardship for my boys. The game arrived swiftly in January and my boys have rattled through the puzzles with great gusto. They have absolutely loved the ability to have lots of things to do on it, and it's kept them entertained for a fair while on - [Man of the Match](https://scottishmum.com/2013/02/man-of-the-match/) - Littlest was proud as punch yesterday. Despite being in the school reject football team, and only being there for half the match, he managed to score the winning goal and be awarded the man of the match card. The man of the match cards are a big thing for kids playing football. What made it - [Competition Blue Hauck Disney Pooh Melon Pushchair - Ends 30th April](https://scottishmum.com/2011/04/competition-blue-hauck-disney-pooh-melon-pushchair-ends-30th-april/) - Competition time again. This is not a sponsored competition. I asked on twitter if I should put this on for a giveaway and the resounding answer was yes. I'd rather it went to someone who will appreciate it, rather than someone who wants it for nothing on ebay. It is still boxed, and sealed. It is exactly - [Competition / Giveaway Baby Products Worth £40.00 Closing 25th February 2011](https://scottishmum.com/2011/02/prcompetition-giveaway-baby-goods-worth/) - UPDATE All eligible entries allocated numbers and the random number generator has done its work. And the winner is @cheekyd19 - Danielle Welsh Hi Danielle, the prize is yours. I don't think we have tweeted before, so it's nice to meet you. DM me your address details, or email me on: scottishmum@gmail.com I have decided - [Beautiful Blogs Collection](https://scottishmum.com/2011/02/beautiful-blogs-collection/) - Beautiful Blogs - I have a page on my blog that is compiling a list of goreous blogs for me, and for others to share. There is the option to share yours, just by filling in the form to add your link. You can choose to add the code to a post on your blog, and - [Operation Overtime](https://scottishmum.com/2011/05/operation-overtime/) - It's over. The operation is done. I am home, and not able to eat and drink much is doing wonders for the size of my backside (not fast enough though). The nose op is past, and I am looking forward to being able to breathe through both nostrils properly again. A bone spur removed, the septoplasty - [To Bravissimo, Or Not To Bravissimo...](https://scottishmum.com/2011/06/to-bravissimo-or-not-to-bravissimo/) - THIS IS NOT A SPONSORED POST What do you know about bras and Bravissimo? Do you think they are just an expensive lingerie company? Until recently, I was blindly ignorant, and knew very little about bras. I knew I hated all the ones I had worn over the last two decades, and I had spent a small - [Sandals with Trousers](https://scottishmum.com/2011/06/sandals-with-trousers/) - Are these ok to wear with black trousers and a black top. I am colourifically challenged. Hellllppp. Twitter answer is fine. - [Who will take a leap of faith with me? Make a difference.](https://scottishmum.com/2011/06/who-will-take-a-leap-of-faith-with-me-make-a-difference/) - What did I learn from the conference in London for Cybermummy 2011? It isn’t a trick question, honestly. I learned that I am capable of doing more. This is not an ordinary blog post, I will save that for later. I need to get this out, and I need to begin talks. I am sorry - [The Crunch in Real Life - The Great British Holiday Empties](https://scottishmum.com/2011/07/the-crunch-in-real-life-the-great-british-holiday-empties/) - Sitting in a campsite, that is usually busting at the seams at this time of year - I am forced to reflect on the impact of the huge cuts that all of us below the levels of the wealthy pampered have been steam rollered into. Around us, where there should be dozens of laughing and - [Operation Germ Avoidance](https://scottishmum.com/2011/05/operation-germ-avoidance/) - I had arranged a twitter meet up with my first ever real life tweeter for last week. When that was cancelled, I decided that avoiding all crowds between then and this coming week would be sensible. I decided not to go to kids club, football, or any public places where breathing in germs was more likely. Just - [Handmade Candles - Smelly Heaven - Candlemaking for Mummy Bloggers](https://scottishmum.com/2011/05/handmade-candles-smelly-heaven-candlemaking-for-mummy-bloggers/) - It's about time I introduced one of my hobbies - my smelly heaven of candlemaking. I absolutely love the scents and smells of burning candles. Spring, Summer, Autumn, or Winter, I love, love, love them. I started out by buying the ready mades you get in supermarkets, but they just didn't cut it for me. - [Foetal Alcohol in Newborn Babies - Do you know the possibilities?](https://scottishmum.com/2011/05/foetal-alcohol-in-newborn-babies-do-you-know-the-possibilities/) - I have had much to do with this issue recently. I am aware of the effects, the guidance and the common sense. Having never been pregnant, I have no idea how I would have reacted to drinking alcohol if I was pregnant, but what I do know is, that it is worrying when someone who is 7 - [School Trips and Gadgets - Opinions Please??](https://scottishmum.com/2011/05/school-trips-and-gadgets-opinions-please/) - I am all for school trips and I think they are good for children, but there are times when I wonder if schools really have lost the plot. They seem to think that pupils' parents have a never ending pot of money to spend out. I don't mind the triple whammy of: cinema outings & shows - [Winner £20 Books From Little Monkey - Book Shop 4 Kids](https://scottishmum.com/2011/06/winner-20-books-from-little-monkey-book-shop-4-kids/) - Little Monkey – Book Shop 4 Kids The winner of the £20 of books from Joanna from Little Monkey – Bookshop 4 Kids is @bobbity666 (Lou Strachan) Lou, if you would like to DM me your contact details, I will send them over to Louise from Little Monkey. - [Competition - £20 of Book Tokens from Little Monkey - Book Shop 4 Kids - Closing Date 31st May 2011](https://scottishmum.com/2011/05/competition-20-of-book-tokens-from-little-monkey-book-shop-4-kids/) - Joanna from Little Monkey - Bookshop 4 Kids asked me to take a look at her website and the books that she has for sale. As I am such an avid book reader, I couldn't resist taking a peek at what her shop has to offer. Little Monkey - Book Shop 4 Kids The bookshop - [What age is appropriate for pierced ears ?](https://scottishmum.com/2011/05/what-age-is-appropriate-for-pierced-ears/) - Many of you won't have come across this issue yet. It is one that has many parents from all walks of life debating on the rights and wrongs, or the reasons for and against. I am against and I also have pierced ears. So why, oh why did I agree to boyo here getting an - [My Home From Home ](https://scottishmum.com/2011/04/my-home-from-home/) - We have a caravan. Yes, we are one of those families, who you see hogging the inside or middle land on a motorway, dawdling along at 50, and holding up the traffic. Five years ago, Mr Scottish and I were of the opinion that the average caravanner was put on this earth to be the scourge - [Another Big Idea - Fruit and Veg - Grow Yer Ain](https://scottishmum.com/2011/05/another-big-idea-fruit-and-veg-grow-yer-ain/) - I really have no idea what came over me, but I have decided to have a go at growing a few bits and bobs. It all started out in Sainsburys with their little tubs for childen to grow strawberries and tomatoes. They're cute, they're sweet, and after a little humming and heying, I went for it. The - [Winner for the Tickets to Legoland DISCOVERY Centre, Manchester](https://scottishmum.com/2011/11/winner-tickets-to-legoland-discovery-centre-manchester/) - Congratulations to my winner Katrina Walsh who wins the family ticket. I have emailed you, so please get back to me with your name and address via mail or DM on Twitter - [Cybermummy 2011 Here I Come](https://scottishmum.com/2011/01/cybermummy-2011-here-i-come/) - My first post of the New Year and hold onto your hats, because I am going to the conference. Oh yes I am. I've booked my early bird ticket and I am going to be on my way. I am looking forward to going, and my biggest worry at the moment is knowing which hotel - [Littlewoods Christmas Giveaway..... Ends 15th November 2011 - Goodie Basket](https://scottishmum.com/2011/10/littlewoods-christmas-giveaway-ends-15th-november-2011-goodie-basket/) - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=INJ5Q16EntU It's that time again, and Christmas is just around the corner. I know, I know, I can hear you all sigh, groan, stamp your feet and run for the hills at the mention of Christmas in October and Early November. The reality is that we either get moving and organise our Christmas presents, or - [Tickets Giveaway for LEGOLAND Discovery Centre, Manchester - Ends 15th November](https://scottishmum.com/2011/10/tickets-giveaway-for-legoland-discovery-centre-manchester/) - One of the places I have always wanted to go to in Manchester would be the Trafford Shopping Centre. It is one of those places that just seems to have the ability to draw people toward it. It is perhaps the reputation that goes before it. Maybe it also has something to do with - [Thank you to the lovely @amelielovesthis on Twitter for the Lovely L’Occitane Basket](https://scottishmum.com/2011/10/thank-you-to-the-lovely-amelielovesthis-on-twitter-for-the-lovely-loccitane-basket/) - I have to show you all this lovely basket I won from L'Occitane En Provence It is a fabulous prize with lovely shampoo, conditioner, eau de cologne, soaps, face, body and foot creams, and more. It is an absolutely fabulous gift. I don't win things very often, so this is a very welcome prize. - [Bloggers Adoption Group on Brit Mums](https://scottishmum.com/2011/08/bloggers-adoption-group-on-brit-mums/) - Brit Mums have had a facelift. Formerly known as British Mummy Bloggers, they have updated and extended the facilities they have on the get together site for those of us who live and breathe in the blogosphere. I have set up a new group on Brit Mums for bloggers who have an interest - [Thinking Slimmer and the Future of Suggestion Therapy](https://scottishmum.com/2011/07/thinking-slimmer-and-the-future-of-suggestion-therapy/) - I think it is about time that I updated my Thinking Slimmer #slimpod journey. I am now coming up to 5 weeks on the programme. Many of you will have heard a lot about Thinking Slimmer by now, and all about the bloggers who are trialling the mp3 pods that give us the power of - [Thank you Warner Bros. for the film "Now Is Good" with Dakota Fanning](https://scottishmum.com/2013/01/thank-you-warner-bros-for-the-film-now-is-good-with-dakota-fanning/) - Thank you to Warner Bros. for providing me the perfect film for this weekend coming - Now Is Good. I've had the disk for a wee while, and I have a night this weekend when the man is out, and I can watch it in peace when I can get a hold of the remote - ["A Braw New Year" Doric Hogmanay Poem](https://scottishmum.com/2010/12/a-braw-new-year-doric-poem/) - Wir waitin fir the end o the month Fir oan the thirtae first its a oer An a new year wi us a cheerin n kissin As we a ring em bells, an kiss baith loons an quines rosy chiks Haudin up twa strings ae misseltow, ower fa ye like Ye a ken fit a - [God versus Santa](https://scottishmum.com/2012/12/god-versus-santa/) - Now there's a question. It did come up in conversation. You know the type. You're standing at the sink peeling spuds, and out comes a voice from behind you demanding to know the difference between God and Santa. Turning round, with three pairs of eyes looking at you, you instantly become conscious that the voice - [Our Christmas Package from Warner Bros.](https://scottishmum.com/2012/12/our-christmas-package-from-warner-bros/) - Warner Bros. came up with a couple of grown up DVD's that 2 of my boys will watch. In the little pack, I have: The Dark Knight Rises New Year's Eve Christmas Stocking Three Candy Canes Three Chocolate Figures. It's always nice that Warner Bros. remembers I have three boys. The Dark Knight Rises also - [Baker Days - Letterbox Cake Review](https://scottishmum.com/2012/12/baker-days-letterbox-cake-review/) - Baker Days sent us an early Christmas cake to review. It came speedily, and in the form of a quirky letterbox cake. It is perfect for small occasions, or when you want to send someone something a little special, but also know they won't be able to answer the door for it. There is an - [Dons Day Out from AFC - Aberdeen - Not Impressed](https://scottishmum.com/2012/11/dons-day-out-from-afc-aberdeen-not-impressed/) - I remember a few years ago when my eldest went to the Aberdeen Football Club Dons Day out back then. They got special treatment, a few players came out and the kids got a group photograph, with a few players in the front. Maybe that was the players in a slightly better place and the - [Urgent Appeal - Getting 7 year old Olivia Downie Home to the UK from Mexico](https://scottishmum.com/2012/06/getting-7-year-old-olivia-downie-home-to-the-uk-from-mexico/) - Update 27/6/12 - Olivia has flown back to the UK from Mexico. ------------------------------------------------------ Update: Over £140,000 has been raised so far and the plane is on it's way to get her. Hopefully she is released from hospital in Tijuana and can come home with her family. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- This is Olivia. She is 7 years - [More delicious foodiness. Turkey and Potato Soup made with Scotty Brand Potatoes](https://scottishmum.com/2012/04/more-delicious-foodiness-turkey-and-potato-soup-made-with-scotty-brand-potatoes/) - Making potato soup is a big Scottish thing I think. It's often so cold here that soups are ideal for little snacks and to warm us up when we're cold. One of Scottish Mum and no measuring recipes again, and I just judge how much goes in by the size of my pot. I - [Caravan Cooking with Scotty Brand Kestrel Potatoes - Slow Cooked Meatball Casserole](https://scottishmum.com/2012/04/caravan-cooking-with-scotty-brand-kestrel-potatoes-slow-cooked-meatball-casserole/) - We received our package of potatoes from Scotty Brand just before we headed up to the top of Scotland with our caravan. Sending a pack by way of my brother and his wife, I took 3 bags of their lovely potatoes with us. We had a couple of baked potato meals, that I didn't - [A "Dolphin Tale" Film Review](https://scottishmum.com/2012/02/a-dolphin-tale-film-review/) - We were sent Dolphin Tale from Warner Brothers to review. I am not quite sure where to start with this film. It's based on the Real Life story of Winter the dolphin. Sad, funny, poignant and a lesson on overcoming disability when she has to learn to live without her tail. I had half an - [Warner Bros. Scooby Doo Spooky Games DVD Review](https://scottishmum.com/2012/09/warner-bros-scooby-doo-spooky-games-dvd-review/) - Thank you to Warner Bros. for the lovely box with a their brand spanking newly released Scooby Doo DVD. I decided to hang on to mine until the paralympics were on, since I have a special needs child in the house. Along with Scooby Doo Spooky Games, there were a couple of sacks, beanbags, - [Will the school soccer dads just get a life.](https://scottishmum.com/2012/09/will-the-school-soccer-dads-just-get-a-life/) - I was tempted to use much stronger words in the title, but I decided to give them a break. Yes, I know that they give up their own time, and that without them, our football wouldn't run, but some of them really need to get a grip on the world outside their own little head - [Christmas Twinkling Tree Lights ](https://scottishmum.com/2011/12/christmas-twinkling-tree-lights/) - When Christmas Trees and Lights asked me to try a set of lights, I just had to say yes. I like twinkly things you see. They sent me some lovely Multi Function LED Lights that are for both Outdoor and Indoor use. There were 120 bulbs on the string and a box that has a switch to - [Mirror Mirror Releases on DVD and Blu-Ray this week.](https://scottishmum.com/2012/07/mirror-mirror-releases-on-dvd-and-blu-ray-this-week/) - Mirror Mirror releases on DVD this week. We couldn't make the premier when we were invited, so the lovely PR sent us a preview DVD to watch instead. With a large bucket of snacks and all piled onto my bed on Sunday night, we sat down and watched the movie. The kids rarely spoke and - [Puff Pastry, Ham, Hot Dog, Cheese and Sweetcorn Pizza](https://scottishmum.com/2012/06/puff-pastry-ham-hot-dog-cheese-and-sweetcorn-pizza/) - The puff pizza - does it exist? I have no idea actually and perhaps I should really go and look it up. I keep it in reserve for days when the fridge is coming to the end of its content and needs a help along with some tinned goodies (shhhhh) to fill some empty - [FREE Telecare Systems for Special Needs, Eldercare or Disability](https://scottishmum.com/2012/07/free-telecare-systems-for-special-needs-eldercare-or-disability/) - This post isn't one for bleating or winging about what some of us can't get, or miss out on for our disabled or elder care families. This one I am actually very pleased with and at the same time, massively surprised about as it seems to be UK wide, but at what levels I am - [Painting with Acrylics on a Dreary & Drab Afternoon](https://scottishmum.com/2012/06/painting-with-acrylics-on-a-dreary-drab-afternoon/) - Forget that it's summer now as the weather has been atrocious. I had the kids with me last week when we went out and about to get some cheapie new curtains for the lounge I am decorating. Ok, the curtains didn't end up as cheap as I was hoping to get them, but they're certainly - [Slow Cooked Beef Stew with New Potatoes](https://scottishmum.com/2012/06/slow-cooked-beef-stew-with-new-potatoes/) - Being the fan of slow cookers that I am, mine has seen something of a slacking off period this last few weeks. Now back and determined to get back to using it more often, we've just sat down to a lush slow cooker beef recipe that includes new potatoes. As always I am cooking - [Restaurant Review - Frankie & Bennys in Aberdeen](https://scottishmum.com/2012/05/restaurant-review-frankie-bennys-in-aberdeen/) - When the PR offered us a voucher to go and try out the new menu at Frankie and Benny's, I just couldn't turn that down. It did take us a while to get to using our voucher, so ours is probably one of the last reviews in. We visited on a week night when middler - [Mothers Day Haul for the Scottish Mum Household from the Kids and Warner Bros.](https://scottishmum.com/2012/03/mothers-day-haul-for-the-scottish-mum-household-from-the-kids-and-warner-bros/) - Mothers day is a good day for some, and not such a good day for others. Motherhood came to me by adoption, but a mother I am. Warner Bros. came first with a fabulous box of feel good movies for me to watch (when the kids are not here) and sent through Doctor Zhivago, An - [A visit to John O'Groats should be OFF the Bucket List. It's not worth the effort.](https://scottishmum.com/2012/04/a-visit-to-john-ogroats-should-be-off-the-bucket-list-its-not-worth-the-effort/) - Hyped up over the inflated egotistical corporate self promotional drivel, my family and I were taken in, and began a journey related to the appreciation of the Northern Territories of Scotland. At the very top of Scotland, we began with a journey to see the topmost camping sites in Scotland, and visit John O Groats - [Personalised Gifts for Teenagers](https://scottishmum.com/2012/04/personalised-gifts-for-teenagers/) - This is a featured guest post. Who couldn’t use a little extra advice these days about what to buy for their teens. I had a look at their gifts and I am sorely tempted to get the birthday chocolate pizza for my eldest, mixing the two things that he loves would be fabulous instead of a - [Making Quiche / Flans on the Fly](https://scottishmum.com/2010/11/making-quiche-flans-on-the-fly/) - Making quiche is easy. It takes very little time, and you have a cracking meal very quickly. I am one of these cooks who tends only to weigh what she has to. I weigh for doughs, bread and cakes, but I rarely weigh for things like pie fillings, pastas, rice, quiche, risottos, currys, stir frys - [Fabulous Food Find - HUGE Watermelon from Costco](https://scottishmum.com/2011/08/huge-watermelon-from-costco/) - Fabulous food find today was a HUGE - SEEDLESS watermelon from Costo in Aberdeen at £2.99. Absolutely fabulous and the kids are hugely impressed with how much there is in the bowl after I sliced it all up to put it in the fridge for nibbles. Watermelon works out at about 30 calories - [Thai Style Crackers - Sweet Chilli Flavour from Asda 60g](https://scottishmum.com/2011/08/thai-style-crackers-sweet-chilli-flavour-from-asda-60g/) - Now these are just a little bit of heaven. Quite spicy and like prawn crackers without the ickiness for me. Although I absolutely love prawn cocktail flavoured Walkers crisps, I am not a fan of any brand prawn crackers. They just seem too fishy for me. I know, I know, I can hear - [Making Soy Milk (Dairy Free) at Home Is this a Fabulous Food Find ??](https://scottishmum.com/2011/10/making-soy-milk-dairy-free-at-home-is-this-a-fabulous-food-find/) - Looking at the title of this post, I can imagine some of you are making some strange assumptions. On Twitter, when I first mentioned it, there was a comment or two that arrived joking about cows in the garden. The milk is dairy free so suitable for those who are lactose intolerant, but it is - [Slow Cooked Sausage & Onion Hotpot](https://scottishmum.com/2012/02/slow-cooked-sausage-onion-hotpot/) - Another slow cooker recipe. Is it showing just how often that I actually use my slow cooker? The food rarely looks pretty on the plate, unless it is a curry, risotto or a piece of meat for carving, but hotpot style food just never looks right although it tastes fantastic. Saturdays are manic here with - [Cod Fillet Fish Supper](https://scottishmum.com/2012/03/tonights-supper-cod-fillet-fish-supper/) - Cod, floured, egged, ruskolined and shallow fried on low heat with lettuce and tomatoes. Lovely supper. - [Corned Beef Hash](https://scottishmum.com/2012/03/corned-beef-hash/) - Boil potatoes, loosely mash with some butter (not to mashed potato creamy state). Mash in some corned beef, and serve with beans, oatcakes, ricecakes or beetroot. - [Easter holiday plan of action.....](https://scottishmum.com/2012/03/easter-holiday-plan-of-action/) - Watching my kids frustrated at not being able to have the ultimate freedom offered to children around their own ages is difficult. Although they are coming up to the age when they should have more freedom out and about, their life circumstances has meant that they are not ready for the full-blown parent free - [Adoption Week Part 1. Not the Step Forward I'd Imagined](https://scottishmum.com/2011/11/adoption-week-not-the-step-forward-id-imagined/) - It has been adoption week this week, and as someone with three adopted children, I thought I should add my tuppenyworth to the discussion and share some of my "ranty wisdom". I will also do a jollier post later this week about more of the positives. I felt like taking my remote control and throwing - [Umbrella's at Dawn](https://scottishmum.com/2010/10/umbrellas-at-dawn/) - I have been moved to blog about the growing band of mummies who stand at the school gates with brollies big enough to lose three people in. I really, honestly and truly do not like brollies of any shape, size or colour (unless they are attached to a buggy and shading a little one's eyes). - [Finding New Blogs](https://scottishmum.com/2010/12/finding-new-blogs/) - I am looking for some great new blogs to read. I love reading, and blogs always give me a reason to connect to other people and escape in the same way that a good novel takes me out of my life and into pleasant escapism. I'm not an avid, daily blogger, but at times I - [Spam Comments - Spammers Go Away](https://scottishmum.com/2010/12/spam-comments-spammers-go-away/) - Image: healingdream / FreeDigitalPhotos.net This is just a general post, and I am writing it more to ease my irritation at having to daily delete more and more comments that are not really comments. All of you who have blogs will know what I mean. I signed into admin today with lots of comments to - [@scottish_mum / My Top 5 Reasons for Twittering](https://scottishmum.com/2011/02/scottish_mum-my-top-5-reasons-for-twittering/) - Yada, yada, yada. I see the look on the faces of anyone that I mention twitter to. It is normally met with some kind of snigger, and snort, or some comment of how they have far too much to do to spend time on twitter, or asking why I would want to talk to strangers - [British Mummy Bloggers February Blog Hop](https://scottishmum.com/2011/02/british-mummy-bloggers-february-blog-hop/) - Join in the February blog hop and find yourself some new bloggers to read. Add your link below, and if you know how, snatch up the code and add a post to your blog. - [Appetite for Disaster - My Fight with Flab](https://scottishmum.com/2011/02/appetite-for-disaster-my-fight-with-flab/) - Ok, here we go. For me, weight is an issue. I am not one of those people you read about in papers or magazines who say that they are happy in their skin and that they are comfortable overweight. At the moment, I have three stones to lose to feel comfortable and get into the - [The Big Moon of 19th March 2011](https://scottishmum.com/2011/03/the-big-moon-of-19th-march-2011/) - [Fridge Contents](https://scottishmum.com/2011/04/fridge-contents/) - Thanks to @melaina25 for tagging me. I am loving rooting through other peoples fridges. Looking at the contents of my fridge is just that little bit scary at the moment. Oh yes, we have 6 people who live here (does that excuse it?). OK, listing the contents really scares me. Here goes: In the fridge - [Silent Sunday 03/04/11](https://scottishmum.com/2011/04/silent-sunday-030411/) - [I've Been Tagged - Find Out More About Me...](https://scottishmum.com/2011/04/ive-been-tagged-find-out-more-about-me/) - I thought I had missed the mass tagging, although I had quite enjoyed reading some. The Q&A tag came from @nickie72 and her blog Typecast It started one day when Mrs Lister, set out to find out about her fellow bloggers, using the same format as is used in the Guardian Q&A when they interview celebs. You - [The Lure of the BMX Bike - Peer Pressure at Work](https://scottishmum.com/2011/06/the-lure-of-the-bmx-bike-peer-pressure-at-work/) - My eldest wanted a new bike at christmas, but it couldn't just be any bike. It had to be a BMX. The reason for that was that he wanted the "cool" badge at school by having one. He also wanted to be able to start doing stunts, and needed a bike that you can turn - [My Vege Bags](https://scottishmum.com/2011/07/garden-bits-n-bobs/) - My little pots are growing their leaves and flowers, and I hope, that eventually we will manage to have some lovely little flowers from the pots and containers that are full of gorgeous leaves. Whether they actually have some fruit or not remains to be seen, but hopefully they do. I have spent hours (ok - [Silent Sunday 25/9/11](https://scottishmum.com/2011/09/silent-sunday-25911/) - [Feeding time at the box.](https://scottishmum.com/2011/10/feeding-time-at-the-box/) - I was clearing out the pictures on the memory card and came across this picture. It's one that littlest took on my camera (among about 150 others) and I hadn't got round to deleting them or putting them onto my computer. I really like this one, move over David Bailey.... Master Scottish Mum is - [Warner Bros. Valentines Day Gift](https://scottishmum.com/2012/02/warner-bros-valentines-day-gift/) - Thank you to Warner Bros. for the lovely gift box that arrived her on the morning of the 14th February. It was a hectic day as the man of the house started a new job and was out of the house by 6am. He didn't make it home until about 8pm and was so tired - [Lucky Winner of the LG Washing Machine.................](https://scottishmum.com/2012/03/lucky-winner-of-the-lg-washing-machine/) - The appliances online staff read through all the comments, and the winner is the lady who wrote this lovely poem. A fabulous prize for anyone to receive. I hope you enjoy it. ------------- Five minutes peace and what would I do? well honestly talking from me to you, these moments are hard to grab You - [Sunday Square Window](https://scottishmum.com/2011/10/sunday/) - [Thank you to Warner Bros. for the lovely Xmas Gift.](https://scottishmum.com/2011/12/thank-you-to-warner-bros-for-the-lovely-xmas-gift/) - Last week, the postman delivered a lovely surprise from the team at Warner Bros. The box was a little battered and bruised from the long journey to the Scottish Mum Family up in Aberdeen. I left it sitting until the boys came home from school, as it was addressed to us all as a family. - [Thinking Slimmer - 1st Week In the Trial](https://scottishmum.com/2011/06/thinking-slimmer-1st-week-in-the-trial/) - I've decided to update my Thinking Slimmer post to let you know how I am going with it. I have even give it a category all of its' own. At the moment, I am not terribly sure how well it is going. It is still early days in the scheme of the programme. The programme - ["Belonging" Doric Poem](https://scottishmum.com/2011/02/belonging-doric-poem/) - In twa thoosan an eliven We'll mind it fir life Iss wis yon year wi muckle bleed Fir thae fa canna stann up fir themsels Oor cooncil took awa their aid An'll mak em wait fir yeers oan end Bairns wi needs canna find help Stuffed intae skewls thit canna cope An admittin it noo - [Spring In The Air - Poem](https://scottishmum.com/2011/04/spring-in-the-air-poem/) - Open your eyes The day has begun A new season around With senses abound No nip in the air Birds sing And search For a home Off the ground Away from Sharp teeth Fit for New life We smile And rise With a spring In our step The promise The beginnings Like nature We follow - ["Scrievin Maist Weel"](https://scottishmum.com/2010/11/scrievin-maist-weel-2/) - Wir scrievin mad, maist still tae dae Wi fifti thoosan wirds tae fill Ah’m a fifth doon sae far tae gang Wi a heart gaun boom, its rare ye see Fir efter at, mair wirk wi wirds Tae move at draft an find a hoose It’s scrievers month an wir writin in fury Dinna gibber - [Winner Princes Breakfast Box Giveaway](https://scottishmum.com/2011/10/winner-princes-breakfast-box-giveaway/) - Hi everyone, thanks for the huge response to this competition. The winner of one of these fab boxes is : @beachpebble I have followed you on twitter, could you follow me back and DM me your name and address so that we can get your details out and deliver your box of goodies to you. - [Winner of Sea Bands Competition](https://scottishmum.com/2011/09/winner-of-sea-bands-competition/) - They winner was: @amywhyley But, she had entered two competitions for Sea Bands and won both, and has graciously offered to give them over the the runner up. So that means that @mumonthebrink is the lucky recipient. DM me your address so that I can send out your bands. Thanks Scottish_Mum - [Winner Disney Hauck Pushchair - Closing Date 30th April](https://scottishmum.com/2011/05/winner-disney-hauck-pushchair-closing-date-30th-april/) - The winner of this competition is the second name drawn out. Sadly, the first person drawn out was not following me on twitter, which is a conditon of qualifying. I am happy to announce that Michelle at @utterlyscrummy was the second draw and has won the pushchair. This competition comes to you from Scottish Mum and has no connection with the - [Interflora Mothers Day Prize Winner](https://scottishmum.com/2011/03/interflora-mothers-day-prize-winner/) - And the winner is.......... @julesey10 on twitter. Congratulations to winning your bunch of flowers. Can you email me the name and address the flowers are to go to, and any message you want written on it. Thanks Scottish Mum - [Software 4 Students Competition Winner](https://scottishmum.com/2011/11/software-4-students-competition-winner/) - Well done to @jessws2011 on Twitter You are the winner of the software competition. - [Winner - Littlewoods Christmas Giveaway - November 2011](https://scottishmum.com/2011/11/winner-littlewoods-christmas-giveaway-november-2011/) - The winner of the fab prize from Littlewoods is : Squeakymom, or @meedja on Twitter. DM me your name / address details so that we can get the goodies sent off to you. We had a shortlist of 12 and through random picking, Squeakymom drew out as the winner at number 8. Commiserations, but fabulous - [What NOT to feed our pets !!!!](https://scottishmum.com/2011/12/what-not-to-feed-our-pets/) - Most of us are guilty of it, and I have many a time scraped the leftover food into our dogs dish, or given her a treat or few from what we are eating. Apart from a vague knowledge that grapes and chocolate are not that great for dogs, I had not really looked into it - [Earth Hour 2011 - 26th March 8.30pm - Join Up](https://scottishmum.com/2011/03/earth-hour-2011-26th-march-8-30pm-join-up/) - Image: federico stevanin / FreeDigitalPhotos.net Earth Hour began in Australia in 2007. Over 2 million people and around 2000 businesses turned off lights for an hour to make a statement and stand up to climate change. Within a year, there were more than 50 million people taking part. Global landmarks were switching off their light, around - [Snow - Sensible or Over-Protective Parent?](https://scottishmum.com/2010/11/snow-sensible-or-over-protective-parent/) - It's only November, but this is the worst snow that I can remember as an adult. I remember snow like this when I was a child, and that was pretty special for me. All this snow is pretty special for my children as well, because they have never seen snow like this before. I am - [Tomorrow](https://scottishmum.com/2011/04/tomorrow/) - This is an easy gallery posting for me to write about. I have not joined the gallery before, so this is a new one for me. I am writing this, and keeping it as short as I can. It has the ability to end up as a rant, but I really want it to act - [Diet Fail - guess where I am?](https://scottishmum.com/2011/03/diet-fail-guess-where-i-am/) - Actually can't complain. Lunch for me and the boy for £6.99 - and it's quiet. Heaven. Pizza Hut gets my thumbs up today. Staff were fab. Union Square should take a bow. - [Direct Payments for Care of a Disabled Person - Worth it or not?](https://scottishmum.com/2011/10/direct-payments-for-care-of-a-disabled-person-worth-it-or-not/) - Some of you may not actually be aware of what direct payments are. Social services come out and assess a person with a disability or child to see what their care needs are. From that, a parent (or the person with a disability) can be offered a set amount of hours per week that they - [Whats in my bag 2011. (purse for you Americans I believe)](https://scottishmum.com/2011/08/whats-in-my-bag-2011-purse-for-you-americans-i-believe/) - I have never managed to understand the designer bag craze. I just don't get it. A bag is a bag, is a bag, is a bag, is a bag. It's for holding stuff in that won't fit in your pockets, right? Now don't go ratting me out as some kind of slobbish, unorganised, ineffectual mother - [Flood Alert Dramatics](https://scottishmum.com/2011/08/flood-alert-dramatics-2/) - A couple of weeks ago, with the van on a campsite, the threat of flood water in the van was getting higher. The kidlets had told each other scary stories, ranging from dying under tonnes of dirty water, to hearing screams coming from the direction of the river. The water was very dangerous and the - [Aberdeen Beach](https://scottishmum.com/2011/07/aberdeen-beach/) - We tried to find a way to amuse the kiddos on Tuesday, which saw us visit Transition Extreme. It is a skatepark for BMX'ers, skateboarders and climbers My boys need to do the training before they are allowed to enter the park, so it was disappointment all round as I booked them in for next week - [I Have Sent My Child to Stay with Strangers.](https://scottishmum.com/2011/07/i-have-sent-my-child-to-stay-with-strangers/) - For Thursday 7th July 2011, we were offered our first overnight respite from middlers non stop antics. It was a blessing in disguise, however you describe it. This post may lose me readers. This post may also make someone else feel not so alone. Lets take a day in the life of Scottish Mum and her family. It's - [Vlogging - My Home from Home](https://scottishmum.com/2011/06/vlogging-my-home-from-home/) - I don't think I have got the hang of this properly yet. If someone has some tips for embedding the videos, please feel free to email me, or let me know. The videos that come up after my one has played are not mine. Youtube put them there. httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I88xJjZEPbU&feature=mfu_in_order&list=UL - [ADHD Mythological Pathways](https://scottishmum.com/2011/04/adhd-mythological-pathways/) - After seeing a few tweets and posts surrounding ADHD and the stereotypical way they have been described, I feel compelled to "right" what I see as a wrong. ADHD is a condition that affects the brain. There is a chemical called dopamine in the brain. In ADHD children, that chemical is lacking or low. It - [Gagging Orders / Superinjunctions](https://scottishmum.com/2011/05/gagging-orders-superinjunctions/) - I really don't care at all about the supposed footballer and his inability to stay faithful to his wife. It is sad to say, that if we, (the general public) were to judge by the frequency of news stories and infidelity, it seems almost an expectation of the job WAG. I don't understand the argument - [Potty Training - What do I wish I had known?](https://scottishmum.com/2011/04/potty-training-what-do-i-wish-i-knew/) - Image: photostock / FreeDigitalPhotos.net How many parents have read Gina Ford, or other parenting bibles, and instantly felt their hearts sinking in despair at what an awful mother / father they are? Looking back on it, what do I wish I had known about potty training?? NADA, NOWT, NOTHING I wish I had never bought a parenting - [A Birthday Present](https://scottishmum.com/2011/04/a-birthday-present/) - Here is what the men in my life gave me for my birthday. It's definitely not the Ipad2 I was hinting for. They sent me packing to the shower block while they set up what they bought for me. - Two little bunches of flowers. - Ferrero Rocher AND Maltesers. - A lovely cake and - [Happy Birthday To Me](https://scottishmum.com/2011/04/happy-birthday-to-me/) - Happy birthday to me, Happy birthday to me, Happy birthday to myself, Happy birthday to me. I have a problem. I forgot to buy myself a birthday card for the kids to give to me. I now have to find some time to sneak away from the Peg, find a shop and try to bring - [“Ma Bonnie Yellow Lab” ](https://scottishmum.com/2010/10/“holly-the-lab”-by-muddling-mum/) - Yer bonnie n bricht wi yer licht glossy coat Ye’ve nowt tae say fan ye’re in yer bed Yer auld n sad when ye teet oot o yer paws Them auld grey een, with now tae see nae mair The dogs o yer youth, are ower the hill, or gone All braw pups, eence loupin - [My Old Singer Sewing Machine](https://scottishmum.com/2011/03/my-old-singer-sewing-machine/) - This is my old singer sewing machine. It still works and has pride of place in our extension. The wheel has to be tied up when its not in use so that they kids don't catch their fingers in it, but it's eye catching, and I love it. I put up the picture as @mmeguillotine - [Who's Calling?](https://scottishmum.com/2011/03/whos-calling/) - I felt a rant coming on tonight, and I just had to share it. I am sure you all really really want to know all about it. It's not often that I get as annoyed with others outside my family (other than education and people who make fun of my kids - but that's another story) So, - [A Camera Dilemma - Canon v Nikon - A Shot in the Dark](https://scottishmum.com/2011/03/a-camera-dilemma-canon-v-nikon-a-shot-in-the-dark/) - I have had a really hard choice this week. I have spent more hours than I care to remember looking at Cameras. I have dragged my kids from pillar to post to weigh them up and potter about with them, whenever I could. I had decided on this one - the Nikon D90, and went - [Housework Hatred](https://scottishmum.com/2011/02/housework-hatred/) - Image: koratmember / FreeDigitalPhotos.net Now I have to be honest with this post. I started thinking about it today, as it is the never ending cycle of domestic purgatory that exists in my world. Dirty dishes, laundry, hoovering, floor washing, bedding to be stripped and remade, dusting, animal walking, and lots, lots more. And ## Pages - [](https://scottishmum.com/) - Free Downloadable Cooking Charts & Planners Kitchen Conversion Chart US & UK Air Fryer Conversion Chart Shopping List Weekly Meal Planner Posts You Might Like - [Work With Me](https://scottishmum.com/about/) - CONTACT ME WORK WITH ME I am more than happy to work with brands / companies who fit within the scope of the Scottish Mum blog. Please contact me if you wish to discuss sponsored posts or advertising. 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Asparagus and Spring Onion Soup Asparagus Tips with Aubergine Aubergine and Butter Bean Soup (Creamy) Beetroot and Orange Soup Recipe Broccoli, Cauliflower and Carrot Soup Recipe Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup - [Guest Post: Give yourself a makeover in time for Christmas](https://scottishmum.com/guest-post-give-yourself-a-makeover-in-time-for-christmas/) - In association with Beauty Recommended One sure-fire way to boost confidence and make yourself feel better is to invest in a makeover. Whether you’re feeling a little drab or you just want to look fabulous for a special occasion, a makeover can really help. No matter how much time you’ve got, there’s always something that - [Groupon : Good or Bad?](https://scottishmum.com/groupon-good-or-bad/) - If there is one thing that seemed to be missing in popularity in the social networking atmosphere, it is certainly making up for it now. 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I sometimes struggle to make out who is who by the - [Reasons to use WordPress for Small Business Websites](https://scottishmum.com/reasons-to-use-wordpress-for-small-business-websites/) - If you are in business, you will have sat and debated the reasons for and against a website. 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You will soon receive instruction by e-mail on how to download your PDF. - [Basket](https://scottishmum.com/basket/) - [woocommerce_cart] - [Checkout](https://scottishmum.com/checkout/) - [woocommerce_checkout] - [My Account](https://scottishmum.com/my-account/) - [woocommerce_my_account] - [Shop](https://scottishmum.com/shop/) - [](https://scottishmum.com/slider-images/slider-1/) - http://scottishmum.com/soup-maker-recipes/ - [Recipe Index](https://scottishmum.com/recipe-index-2/) - [Cybermummy](https://scottishmum.com/cybermummy/) - As I said in my post on the 1st January 2011, I am headed to the online mummy bloggers conference. I will put any information about the conference in this page to make it easy to find. I am funding the event personally as a writer. I would also be happy for a sponsor who would - [Social Media SOS - Be Empowered To Surf Safely](https://scottishmum.com/social-media-sos-be-empowered-to-surf-safely/) - Watch this video which could help you realise that our children tend to know more about the Internet and social media than their parents. Do you have the knowledge, skills and tools available to help your family enjoy the Internet fully and surf safely. - [Hashtag Parties on Twitter - Good or Bad?](https://scottishmum.com/hashtag-parties-on-twitter-good-or-bad/) - Lots of businesses are holding hashtag parties on Twitter. Some of you are probably wondering what a hashtag is. Put simply, a hashtag is simply putting a # in front of a word or group of words when you are sending out a message (tweeting). Examples of hashtags: I could have tweeted: "I am going - [Excessive “above the fold” advertising on blogs and websites?](https://scottishmum.com/submit-a-guest-post/excessive-above-the-fold-advertising-on-blogs-and-websites/) - Image: digitalart / FreeDigitalPhotos.net There has been much talk about "advertising above the fold" on Twitter recently with the news that Google "may" penalise sites that carry too much advertising above the fold. As a subject, it was not something that I had paid too much attention to, nor thought about the long term implications - [The Pinterest Debate](https://scottishmum.com/the-pinterest-debate/) - Jax from Making it Up wrote very eloquently about the Pinterest issue in February. Pinterest have terms and conditions that don't align with the way they want their users to operate. On the surface, Pinterest seems like a very good opportunity to make pretty boards that organise pictures and images you like from the world wide web. They state - [Funky Foodies](https://scottishmum.com/funky-foodies/) - Food is becoming a big part of my life. Apart from the love / hate affair my body and I have had over the years, it's time to embrace all that is foodie and learn to love our calories. I'm not a fantastic cook, but I do experiment, and I enjoy watching my kids faces - [Social Media Destroys Traditional Marketing Methods](https://scottishmum.com/social-media-destroys-traditional-marketing-methods/) - Image: jscreationzs / FreeDigitalPhotos.net I recently read a social media newsletter that implied social media was a failure for traditional marketing methods. 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For some, it is simply a way to record their lifestyle (similar to a diary). I have - [Do People Still Believe this? How to Make Money Using Social Media - 10 Easy Steps !](https://scottishmum.com/do-people-still-believe-this-how-to-make-money-using-social-media-10-easy-steps/) - It looks like a loaded question, doesn't it? If it was as easy as writing a ten part guide to making money online, and if everyone who read it followed the principles then we'd all be rich, wouldn't we? The days of the Internet scams and get rich quick schemes should be well and truly - [How to blog in 10 simple steps.](https://scottishmum.com/how-to-blog-in-10-simple-steps/) - One of the most frequently asked questions that I hear is the one asking how to blog... Since it is a subject that is actually quite relevant, it is worth tackling on a regular basis. Asking someone how to blog is akin to asking them what size clothes they wear. It is a - [Twitter Mistakes. How NOT to behave.](https://scottishmum.com/twitter-mistakes-how-not-to-behave/) - It's hugely tempting in the world of Internet behaviour, and blogging, to try to elevate your own status, without thinking of the status of others. If we see our competitors, as also our friends, it is quicker and easier to move forward with some positive aspects of using social media. Anyone who uses twitter can - [Blogging Privacy](https://scottishmum.com/blogging-privacy/) - When you begin to blog for fun, you really need to take your privacy into account early on. It is very difficult to get privacy back once you have put it out onto the Internet. The Internet is just one HUGE diary, and one that you have no control of once information is published. - [10 Mistakes to avoid when you are giving a Presentation](https://scottishmum.com/10-mistakes-to-avoid-when-you-are-giving-a-presentation/) - We've all sat through lessons, classes and presentations that make us wince at the thought of ever going back to attend another one. I vividly remember sitting trying to keep my eyes open through the monotonous drone of one of my University Lecturers in Aberdeen who hand wrote slides - and didn't use any technology - [Is Twitter for Idiots? Why use Twitter?](https://scottishmum.com/is-twitter-for-idiots-why-use-twitter/) - If I had a £1.00 for every time that someone has told me I am wasting my time on Twitter, I think I would be on my way to buying myself a very nice car as a thank you. Who has the last laugh on my Twitter addiction? 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What can you do if your mind goes blank?](https://scottishmum.com/blogger-and-writers-block-what-can-you-do-if-your-mind-goes-blank/) - I am one of those people who always has more to say online than there is time to say it. I don't stop furiously writing and making content because it might be too much to read, but I do often draft, rewrite and then rewrite again. If I didn't, my readers would be in danger - [Social Networking Polices - Why, How?](https://scottishmum.com/social-networking-polices-why-how/) - It's sheer madness to have Internet access in the workplace without a social media policy. It's easy for me to say that, but how on earth do you make up a policy? It can be difficult to find out how to write one if you have never used social media yourself, or have few ideas of - [Bloggers are Pathetic....So Why Do Big Brands Seek Us Out?](https://scottishmum.com/bloggers-are-pathetic-so-why-do-big-brands-seek-us-out/) - Do you think bloggers are pathetic? 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I am happy to review products that are relevant to my content, but obviously if you want me to give a review, it would help if you provide me one to try out. I will give an honest - [Burning Candles Safely](https://scottishmum.com/burning-candles-safely/) - We need to be aware of what we are doing when we burn candles. Far too many people seem to think that it is ok to light a candle and just leave it burning without any maintenance. There are some basic safety rules that we should all be following. Never leave burning candles unattended. Burn candles - [Candle Making Safety Guidelines](https://scottishmum.com/candle-making-safety-guidelines/) - Making candles means that you need to do a little preparation and know what to do if you hit a spot of trouble. Never pour water on a candle wax fire as all you will do is spread the fire not put it out. Treat it exactly the same as a grease fire. 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