Aging Gracefully

Aging Gracefully: Advanced Stannah Stairlift

As we age, the familiar spaces of our homes can start to feel like uncharted territories. The stairs, once a simple means to move from one floor to another, can become daunting challenges.

But what if you could navigate these heights with ease and safety? Enter the world of Stannah Stairlifts, a beacon of hope and independence for many.

Embrace Your Independence with a Stannah Stairlift

Imagine waking up in the morning, the sunlight peeking through the blinds, and knowing that every corner of your home is still accessible to you, despite the frailties that often accompany aging.

A Stannah Stairlift is not just a mechanical device; it’s a gateway to maintaining your independence and continuing to enjoy the comfort of your home without compromise.

The Comfort of a Reliable Assistant

Have you ever thought about how a simple grab can change your life? Consider this: Mrs. Thompson, a spry 78-year-old, found herself avoiding the upstairs of her home because the stairs became too much of a challenge. One day, while reaching out to grab an old photo from the stairway wall, she lost her balance but was caught by her visiting nephew. This scare was a turning point. It led her to install a Stannah Stair-lift, which now provides the security and lift she needs to grab every day with confidence.

Stannah Stairlifts are designed with your comfort and safety in mind, featuring seats that you can adjust to your exact liking, and controls that are intuitive and easy to manage. Whether you’re dealing with a temporary injury or long-term mobility issues, a Stannah chairlift ensures that your journey between floors is smooth and effortless.

Continuing Your Life’s Work and Passions

The notion of retirement often brings with it visions of relaxation and freedom, but for many, it is also a time to pursue passions and perhaps extend a lifetime of service in ministry or community work. Remember Reverend Martin? Even after retiring from his official duties in the ministry, he found joy in organizing community gatherings and leading small groups in his home.

However, the stairs in his two-story house became a barrier. After installing a Stannah Stairlift, Reverend Martin was able to continue his life’s work, fostering community and sharing wisdom without the physical limitations imposed by his home’s layout.

Harnessing Advanced Technology for Your Ease

Have you ever marveled at the wonders of natural phenomena like hydrothermal vents, which demonstrate the powerful transformations under the Earth’s surface? Similarly, Stannah Stairlifts harness advanced technology to transform your experience of mobility in your home.

With precision-engineered tracks and robust motors, a Stannah chairlift is like the reliable force of nature that offers you support and stability, making your daily life smoother and more enjoyable.

The Assurance of Safety and Style

When it comes to home modifications, you might worry about the aesthetics of adding something like a stairlift. However, with a Stannah Stairlift, style meets functionality. These stairlifts are crafted to complement your home décor, with a variety of styles and finishes that blend seamlessly into your home’s interior. More importantly, they come equipped with safety features such as seat belts, obstruction sensors, and gentle start and stop mechanisms, ensuring you feel secure at every point of the ride.

Your Journey Towards a Fuller Life

Adopting aids for mobility should not feel like a compromise but rather a step towards embracing a fuller life. With a Stannah Stairlift installed in your home, the places you love no longer feel out of reach. It’s about continuing to make memories in every corner of your space, without fear or hesitation.

Each day provides us with an opportunity to celebrate life, and with the right tools, we can ensure that age does not restrict our ability to enjoy it. By choosing a Stannah Stairlift, you are not just choosing a product; you are making a decision to live your best life, independently and gracefully. And isn’t that something we all aspire to as we write our own stories of aging?

As we move forward, remember that aging gracefully isn’t about avoiding age; it’s about embracing it and finding solutions that allow us to continue living the life we love. With Stannah Stairlifts, step confidently into your future, where every level of your home is still yours to explore and enjoy.

Disclosure: this is a collaborative post

facts about eyes

7 interesting facts about eyes that you might not know

Eyes are amazing little things, aren’t they? They let us see the world, connect with others, and communicate without saying a single word. But there’s so much more going on with them than you might realise. So let’s take a look at some fascinating eye facts that’ll make you appreciate them even more.

1. Eye colour is a lot more complicated than it seems. For years, scientists thought it was a simple genetic lottery, with brown eyes always trumping blue. Turns out, it’s not that simple at all. Eye colour is influenced by loads of different genes, meaning you could end up with an eye colour thanks to distant relatives, not just your parents. Speaking of eye colours, did you know only about 2% of the world has green eyes? TheraTears has written a great article all about the origins of eye colour, which is definitely worth checking out if you’re curious.

2. Your eyes are ridiculously good at picking up light. In fact, on a completely dark night, they can detect the flicker of a candle flame from 14 miles away. So, the next time someone says you’re not paying attention, just remind them how amazing your eyes are, even in the dark.

3. Here’s a fun one: the eye contains the fastest contracting muscle in your body. It can react in less than 1/100th of a second. That’s faster than you can even blink. Pretty impressive, right?

4. Ever seen someone with two different coloured eyes? That’s called heterochromia, and it’s incredibly rare – less than 1% of people have it. There are a few different types too. Complete heterochromia means one eye is a totally different colour from the other. Partial heterochromia is where part of one iris is a different colour. Then there’s central heterochromia, where the inner ring of the iris is a different colour from the outer bit. Sometimes it’s genetic, but it can also happen after an injury or because of certain medical conditions.

5. While the brain gets all the glory for being the most complex organ in the body, the eyes aren’t far behind. Each one has over two million working parts, and they’re connected to the brain by more than a million nerve fibres.

6. Did you know over 1 in 8 men are colour-blind? It’s much less common in women, but it’s still a lot more frequent than people think. So, if someone’s having a hard time matching their socks or figuring out if that light is green or red, they might not just be distracted – their eyes could be seeing things differently.

7. Here’s a cute fact to end on: newborn babies can’t actually produce tears when they cry. Their tear ducts aren’t fully developed yet, so even though they’ll cry plenty (as every parent knows), the real waterworks don’t kick in until they’re about six weeks old.

And there you have it – seven fascinating facts about eyes. So, next time you’re gazing into someone’s eyes or just checking yourself out in the mirror, take a moment to appreciate how incredible they really are! What’s the most surprising thing you’ve learned about eyes? Let me know – I’d love to hear!

Disclosure: this is a collaborative post

christmas trees

Real vs. artificial Christmas trees: which is right for you?

Your holiday preparations are likely in full swing with one key decision remaining, choosing your ideal Christmas tree. Selecting between a genuine and an artificial tree can make a significant difference.

Each option has its unique benefits and drawbacks. Finding the most suitable tree isn’t easy. Consider everything from environmental impact and aesthetics to cost and convenience.

Let’s dive into the key differences between real and artificial trees. We’ll help you handpick the ideal one that makes your home gleam during your holiday festivities.

Real Christmas trees: a timeless classic

The sight and scent of a genuine Christmas tree in your living room is quite unlike anything else. Many people find this to be the essence of the Christmas season. Are actual trees, then, the ideal choice for everyone?

The natural appeal

Real Christmas trees have primarily aesthetic value. The scent of fresh pine or fir can bring back happy memories of former holidays. The distinctive form and texture of a real tree give your house an authentic, rustic look. 

Every Christmas tree you choose is special and different, as no pair of trees are exactly the same. Plus, the family tradition of hunting down the perfect tree from a lot or a tree farm adds a dose of joy to the festive season.

Environmental considerations

At first glance, it appears contradictory to talk about environmental protection when we consider the annual chopping of trees. Yet, that’s not the case with Christmas tree farms. 

These farms purposely cultivate trees to meet the holiday demand. For every tree cut down, several others are grown. This process not only assists in carbon dioxide absorption, but also supports wildlife.

Real trees are also biodegradable, hence after the holiday season they can be mulched or composted. 

You’ll find that several local governments also offer tree recycling programs. They handle the collection, making it both an easy and eco-friendly way of getting rid of your tree.

The drawback is that actual trees require time and work. Getting your tree home and into the stand can sometimes feel like a wrestling match once you have picked one. 

Of course, you will also have to water it routinely to prevent it from drying out. Nobody wants needles all over the carpet on Christmas Eve. 

Not to mention, most real trees have to be disposed of by early January, which implies an annual commitment in both time and money. They are not forever.

Christmas tree set up

Professional service providers are ready to assist if you’re concerned about the logistics of putting a genuine tree in place. 

Many Christmas tree suppliers provide delivery and installation services. This saves you the effort of personally moving and setting up the tree. If you are buying a large tree that can be challenging to move, this is particularly helpful. 

Usually, these services ensure the tree is securely placed in its stand upright, allowing you to focus on the fun part which is decorating it.

Artificial Christmas trees: convenience with a dash of practicality

You could consider switching to an artificial tree if you’re tired of spending hours cleaning up pine needles. Keeping a real tree vibrant can also be a challenge, making the other option more appealing.

From the inexpensive plastic models of the past, artificial Christmas trees have gone a great distance. These days, they present a neat, mess-free substitute that appears remarkably lifelike.

Low maintenance and reusable

Convenience is perhaps the main advantage of an artificial tree. Once you have one, you will never have to worry about buying another. So basically, this is a one-time investment that will last years, or even decades. 

There’s no need for you to stress about watering or constantly sweeping up fallen needles. Your Christmas tree comes all set and ready to sparkle. Just unbox it, put it together and voila!

Finally, as the holiday celebrations end, you can store your tree easily for next year. 

Artificial trees are available in various sizes and styles, with some featuring built-in lights to save you time on decorations. Some models are so perfectly crafted that it is difficult to differentiate a fake tree from the actual one.

Eco-friendliness: a mixed bag

Sure, you can use artificial trees over and over again. However, these are made from PVC and often produced overseas. This means their carbon footprint surpasses that of real trees.

Unlike natural trees, these don’t break down naturally. Their production can also release harmful substances into our surroundings. More often than not, they end up as landfill trash once they’re considered outdated.

Artificial trees last for several years, therefore lessening the need for new purchases. Sticking with the same tree for a decade or even more can assist in compensating for the ecological costs tied to its production.

Therefore, even though fake trees aren’t the greenest option on paper, they can still be sustainable. This is especially true if they’re well-maintained and used over many years. And here are some Christmas tips about your kitchen.

Christmas tree assembly made easy

Usually, installing an artificial tree is no trouble. They often come in parts that easily connect, making the setup simple. Trees with pre-attached lights also save you from the tedious task of stringing lights yourself.

If the thought of setting up a Christmas tree overwhelms you, then this can also be handled. Specialized services are available to ensure your artificial Christmas tree is perfectly straight and fluffed to perfection.

Particularly if your tree is big or features complicated branches, this can save a lot of time and work.

Which tree is best for you?

After considering both choices, it’s time to decide which tree best fits your life, or this dilemma might have negative consequences on your mental health this Christmas. Both real and synthetic trees offer advantages, so the choice boils down to what matters most to you.

For the traditionalist, a real tree is most likely the answer. If Christmas just doesn’t seem like Christmas without the scent of pine, you know what to do. 

If you prefer your holiday to be as eco-friendly as possible, choosing a real tree is a great option. You can recycle it afterwards, making it both festive and sustainable. A little extra work in terms of installation and care will be needed, though.

For the pragmatist, an artificial tree is a terrific option. If your holidays are already busy, you’ll appreciate having something that can be used year after year with minimal effort.

Long term, these trees provide simplicity, utility, and sometimes cost savings. There is no need for regular watering or gathering needles. Imagine the extra time you’ll have for wrapping gifts and enjoying hot cocoa. You can have all this if you skip the annual trip to the Christmas tree farm.

For the hybrid enthusiast, we know you want the best of both worlds. One option is to put up artificial trees around the house. Then, you could jazz it up with a small authentic tree, perhaps in your living room, as the main attraction.

This approach lets you enjoy the look and feel of a real tree without the hassle of maintaining multiple large trees.

There you have it! 

Whether you cherish the musky scent of fresh pine or prefer the convenience of a reusable option, your ideal Christmas tree awaits. If you don’t want to compromise, employ the hybrid approach and enjoy a stress-free, needle-free holiday.

Just remember, in the end, the best Christmas tree is an adorned one. 

Disclosure: this is a collaborative post

Promote your startup on YouTube

How to promote your startup on YouTube

YouTube has transformed into a crucial marketing platform for startups seeking to enhance their visibility and connect with potential customers. With over two billion active users, this dynamic video-sharing platform offers startups an unparalleled opportunity to showcase their products, share their brand stories, and engage with a diverse audience. Harnessing the power of video content can significantly boost your startup’s reach and credibility in today’s competitive market.

As consumer preferences shift toward visual content, startups must adapt their marketing strategies to include video. Engaging videos not only capture attention but also enhance brand recall, making them an effective tool for building a loyal customer base. This article will outline key strategies to promote your startup on YouTube, focusing on essential techniques such as optimizing your channel, creating high-quality content, and leveraging innovative tools like AI YouTube video makers.

Create a compelling channel

Creating a compelling YouTube channel is essential for attracting and retaining viewers. Start by designing an eye-catching channel layout that reflects your startup’s branding. Use a professional logo and banner that convey your brand identity. A well-crafted channel description is equally important; it should clearly communicate your startup’s mission and the value your videos offer. Incorporating relevant keywords in your description can also improve your channel’s searchability.

Additionally, organize your content into playlists to make it easier for viewers to find what they are looking for. Playlists can showcase different aspects of your startup, such as product tutorials, customer testimonials, or behind-the-scenes footage. This not only enhances user experience but also encourages longer viewing sessions, improving your channel’s overall performance. By investing time in creating a visually appealing and organized channel, you set a strong foundation for effective promotion on YouTube.

Leverage SEO techniques

Leveraging SEO techniques is crucial for enhancing your startup’s visibility on YouTube. Start by conducting thorough keyword research to identify terms relevant to your niche. Use tools like Google Trends and YouTube’s search suggestions to find keywords that your target audience is actively searching for. Incorporating these keywords naturally into your video titles, descriptions, and tags will improve your chances of ranking higher in search results.

Optimizing your video thumbnails is essential for attracting clicks. A visually appealing thumbnail can significantly increase your click-through rate, making it more likely that viewers will choose your video over others. Ensure your thumbnails are clear, colourful, and include text that conveys the video’s main idea. By implementing these SEO strategies, you can effectively boost your startup’s discoverability on YouTube, driving more traffic to your channel and enhancing brand awareness.

Produce high-quality content

Producing high-quality content is crucial for startups aiming to capture audience attention on YouTube. With the rapid growth of video consumption, leveraging advanced technologies like an AI YouTube video maker can help streamline content creation. These tools enable users to generate engaging videos quickly, optimizing both visual appeal and sound quality. By incorporating analytics-driven insights, startups can tailor their content to meet viewer preferences, ensuring a higher level of engagement and retention.

Additionally, AI-driven platforms often come equipped with features that enhance production efficiency, such as automated editing. This allows creators to focus more on storytelling and less on technical challenges. By consistently delivering well-produced, informative content, your startup can establish credibility and authority in its niche, ultimately driving more traffic and engagement to your channel. Embracing AI technology not only elevates the quality of your videos but also positions your brand as a forward-thinking leader in the industry.

Collaborate with influencers

Collaborating with influencers can significantly amplify your startup’s reach on YouTube. Influencers have established trust and credibility within their niches, allowing them to effectively promote your products or services to a targeted audience. Start by identifying influencers whose values align with your brand and who engage with your target demographic. Research their content style and engagement rates to ensure a fruitful partnership.

When approaching influencers, propose creative collaboration ideas, such as product reviews, tutorial videos, or joint live sessions. These collaborations not only introduce your startup to a broader audience but also provide valuable social proof. Additionally, influencers can help generate buzz around your brand, driving more traffic to your YouTube channel. By leveraging influencer partnerships, your startup can enhance brand visibility and credibility in a competitive marketplace.

Use faceless YouTube shorts

Faceless YouTube Shorts are an innovative way for startups to engage audiences without the need for on-screen appearances. These short, dynamic videos can effectively showcase products, share tips, or tell compelling stories while maintaining viewer interest. By utilizing captivating visuals, graphics, and text overlays, startups can create informative content that resonates with their target audience. This approach not only saves time and resources but also allows for greater creative freedom in content creation.

Moreover, the brevity of YouTube Shorts caters to the modern viewer’s preference for quick, digestible content. By crafting engaging faceless videos, startups can tap into trending topics and challenges, increasing the chances of going viral. This strategy not only boosts brand awareness but also encourages potential customers to explore your main channel for more in-depth content. Embracing faceless YouTube Shorts can be a game-changer in promoting your startup and reaching a wider audience effectively.

Engage with your audience

Engaging with your audience on YouTube is essential for building a loyal community around your startup. Start by responding to comments on your videos, thanking viewers for their feedback and encouraging discussions. This interaction fosters a sense of connection, making your audience feel valued and more likely to return for future content.

Consider using polls, Q&A sessions, and live streams to create real-time engagement opportunities. These formats allow you to gather insights about your audience’s preferences while showcasing your startup’s personality. By actively engaging with your viewers, you can enhance brand loyalty and create a vibrant community that supports your startup’s growth.

Analyze and adapt

Analysing your YouTube performance is crucial for optimizing your startup’s content strategy. Utilize YouTube Analytics to track key metrics, such as watch time, audience retention, and engagement rates. These insights reveal what types of content resonate most with your viewers, allowing you to adjust your approach accordingly.

Regularly reviewing analytics helps identify trends and patterns, enabling you to capitalize on successful formats or topics. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different content styles or posting schedules based on this data. By continuously analysing and adapting your strategy, you can enhance your startup’s visibility and drive sustained growth on the platform.

Conclusion 

Promoting your startup on YouTube offers a powerful way to connect with your audience and build brand awareness. By creating a compelling channel, leveraging SEO techniques, producing high-quality content, collaborating with influencers, utilizing faceless YouTube Shorts, engaging with your audience, and regularly analysing your performance, you can maximize your impact on the platform. Embrace these strategies to effectively showcase your startup’s unique value and foster a community of loyal followers. Start implementing these techniques today to elevate your startup’s presence on YouTube and drive growth.

Disclosure: this is a collaborative post

Pet parenting 101

Pet parenting 101: essential tips for first-time pet owners

It is no secret that bringing a pet into your home for the first time is a moment filled with excitement and joy. It’s more than just about adopting a new animal, but welcoming a new family member who will enrich your life with love and companionship. 

However, pet parenting is a big responsibility, and there’s a lot to learn. Being a successful first-time pet owner requires knowledge, patience, and love. Here’s your guide to Pet Parenting 101 with essential tips to get you started on the right foot.

Pet-proofing is a must 

Before your new pet arrives, take time to make your home pet-friendly. Pets are naturally curious, and it’s important to remove anything that could potentially harm them. This includes securing loose wires, storing cleaning products and medications out of reach, and removing toxic plants that might tempt a curious pet. Small objects that could be swallowed, like coins or toys, should also be kept away.

Also, set aside a comfortable space where your pet can sleep, rest, and retreat when they need quiet time. For dogs and cats, a cozy bed in a low-traffic area works well. For small pets like hamsters or rabbits, make sure they have a safe cage with appropriate bedding and plenty of room to move around.

Your pet’s health comes first 

One of the most essential aspects of pet parenting is making sure your pet receives regular veterinary care. It is important to schedule a vet appointment soon after bringing your new pet home to establish a baseline of their health. Your vet will help you set up a vaccination schedule, discuss spaying or neutering, and advise you on parasite prevention.

Additionally, make sure that you keep an eye out for changes in your pet’s behavior, appetite, or appearance, as these can sometimes be the first signs of health issues. Early detection can make all the difference when it comes to keeping your pet healthy. 

Feed them right 

Proper nutrition is a non-negotiable part of your pet’s health, and feeding them the right diet from the start will support their growth and energy levels. It’s important that you choose food that is appropriate for your pet’s species, age, and size. For example, puppies need food rich in protein and healthy fats to support their development, while senior cats may require food that supports joint health.

If in doubt, you can consult with your vet about the best food options for your specific pet. They can provide recommendations based on breed and individual health needs. Always keep fresh water available, and avoid giving your pet human food like chocolate, onions, and grapes as they can be toxic to pets.

Build good behaviour early

Training your pet is one of the most important things you’ll do as a pet parent. It not only helps build a strong bond between you and your new friend but also ensures their safety and well-being. 

You can start with basic commands for dogs like “sit,” “stay,” and “come.” Housebreaking should begin immediately, and crate training can be helpful for both house training and giving your pet a safe space to rest.

Positive reinforcement is the most effective training method, and one of the best ways to encourage positive behavior in your pet is through the use of treats. Pet treats play a pivotal role in training and rewarding your furry friend. For example, rewarding your dog with dog treats when they successfully “sit” on command or giving your cat a treat when they use their litter box is a great way to reinforce positive behaviors

Keep your pet active 

Just like humans, pets need regular exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. It is important that you create playtime as it strengthens the bond between you and your pet while helping them release pent-up energy.

For dogs, daily walks and interactive toys are a must, while cats enjoy a variety of toys that stimulate their hunting instincts. And if you are living in an apartment, indoor games like tug-of-war or using puzzle toys can help keep them entertained while improving their mental and physical health.

Establish a routine

Like children, pets thrive on routine. It is important that you establish a consistent schedule for feeding, exercise, playtime, and bathroom breaks. This structure will help reduce anxiety and make it easier for your pet to understand what is expected of them. For example, feeding your pet at the same time every day helps regulate their digestion and prevents overeating.

If you have a dog, regular walks at consistent times will not only provide physical activity but also help with house training. Cats, on the other hand, enjoy consistency when it comes to litter box placement and mealtime. Creating predictable routines helps your pet feel secure and relaxed.

Practice patience and love

Becoming a pet parent for the first time will come with its challenges. Whether it’s a puppy that’s slow to learn potty training or a cat that’s shy around strangers, patience is key. Pets, like people, need time to adjust to new environments, routines, and expectations.

Give your pet plenty of positive reinforcement and affection as they go through this new life with you. Remember that building a strong bond with your pet doesn’t happen overnight. Over time, your pet will come to trust and depend on you as their caregiver, friend, and family. 

Welcoming a new pet into your life is a joyous and rewarding experience. As a first-time pet parent, being prepared with these essential tips will help ensure that you create a happy, healthy, and well-behaved pet. And, in return, you’ll gain a loyal companion who will bring endless joy and love into your life. Remember, patience, love, and consistency are the cornerstones of happy pet parenting.

Disclosure: this is a collaborative post

Enjoying rainy day walks with the kids

How to actually enjoy rainy day walks with the kids

I just want to start by saying that I live in Wales. So I’ve experienced my fair share of rainy days. Maybe more than my fair share actually! And look, I know that feeling when you check the weather forecast and it’s just grey. Which for some reason seems to happen more at the weekends or just as the school holidays hit, right?

And I know how tempting it is to just stay indoors when it happens. Cwtch up on the sofa and stick a film on. Enjoy staying in all day without that feeling of guilt that you get when it’s sunny out and you should be making the most of it (I know I’m not the only one who gets that!).

The thing is, there are some days when you just need to get the kids out of the house. There are only so many rainy day activities you can do at home before you all start to get a bit stir crazy. And honestly, there are so many benefits to heading outside on rainy days.

Remember during the pandemic when we would all head out on our stupid daily walks, for our stupid mental health? Remember how it actually made a huge difference in how well we could cope with the madness of the whole situation?

Study after study has found that there are huge mental health benefits to spending time in nature. It boosts your mood and reduces feelings of anxiety and stress. So when everyone’s nerves are a bit frazzled from being cooped up indoors, heading out into the fresh air can work wonders to calm you all down.

And walking in the rain can make the whole thing even better.

The sound of rain, whether it’s on your umbrella, the hood of your coat, or just falling on the ground, is soothing.

The smell of the rain is something else, too. It’s thought that petrichor actually has calming and mood-boosting properties, potentially a throwback from the days when our ancestors would relax when the rain came because it would help the crops grow.

How to actually enjoy a rainy walk with kids

The things is though, even if you know that getting out on a rainy day will be good for everyone, it can still feel easier to just stay in.

So here are some tips to get you out the door and actually enjoying a rainy walk with the kids.

1. Get appropriate clothing

There’s a saying that goes, ‘there’s no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing’. And it’s true. You’ll enjoy a rainy day walk a lot more if you all have the right footwear and clothes on.

Once you’re all decked out in wellies and waterproofs you can head out the door knowing you won’t be cold and soggy by the time you get back home.

2. Include some rainy day activities

Your usual routine and activities might not work on a wet, rainy day. So have a plan to include some different activities that are more suited to this kind of weather.

Make your walk more fun for the kids by letting them jump and splash in puddles.

Head to the park and enjoy having the place to yourselves for a change!

Think of rain-specific items you could include in a nature scavenger hunt.

3. Have a plan for when you get home

If the kids (or you) are still feeling a bit reluctant to head outside in the rain, then having something to look forward to when you get home could give you the push you need.

Pick up some mini marshmallows from the local shops while you’re out, so you can have some hot chocolate once you’re home. Or plan to move bathtime forwards and get the kids in a warm bath full of bubbles and toys as soon as you can after getting in from the rain.

Then you can cwtch up and enjoy a cosy, rainy evening together knowing that you can skip that part of the bedtime routine later!

It’s natural to not particularly want to head out in the rain, especially with kids. But changing the way you think about rainy days can make all the difference.

Instead of viewing rain as a pain, try to see it as just weather. It’s not bad, it’s just different. And that means it’s a chance to get out and see the world in a different way, and to have different experiences.

Kids often take their cues from adults, basing their own opinions and world-view on what we model for them. So if you’re excited about the rain, they’ll be more likely to embrace it too.

Don’t let them grow up waiting for sunny days to be able to get out and enjoy the world, teach them that they can do that whatever the weather.

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Feel good TV programmes to watch this autumn

Feel-good TV programmes to watch this autumn

I don’t know about you but there’s something about the days starting to get shorter as autumn settles in that makes me want to spend my evenings curled up on the sofa with a few episodes of something that just makes me feel good. Something cosy, something that makes me smile, and something that’s definitely not mentally or emotionally taxing!

If this sounds like your kind of vibe, then here are the programmes on my list to enjoy this autumn. Some of them I’ve watched before and keep coming back to, and others are ones I’ve heard great things about and that sound like they’ll fit the ‘feel-good’ bill.

The Good Place

If you haven’t already watched this then I highly recommend you give it a go this autumn. It’s based around a group of people in the afterlife and is a lot funnier than that makes it sound! It also has one of the best, most satisfying final episodes I’ve seen in a long time.

Where to watch: Netflix

Superstore

This is another one where the description just doesn’t do it justice. Because it is just a show about a people working in a superstore. But it is so funny, and actually has a lot of heart too. And it’s another one that has a really satisfying ending that wraps everyone’s stories up really nicely.

Where to watch: Netflix

Gilmore Girls

I can’t write a post about things to watch in autumn and not include Gilmore Girls! It’s one of my real comfort shows and always brings back memories of watching it for the first time with my best friend when we were in our early 20s.

Where to watch: Netflix

Two Guys and a Girl

I’m still mad that this show got cancelled when it did, ending on a real cliffhanger. But if you can get past that it is honestly such a funny programme that just never really got the recognition it deserved. I mean, it has both Ryan Reynolds and Nathan Fillion in it!

It’s about 2 guys and a girl who have been friends since college and who now live in the same apartment building. It’s silly, funny, and a show that I still quote to this day.

Where to watch: Annoyingly you can’t stream this anywhere but you can find the DVDs on Amazon.

Schitt’s Creek

I have to admit it took me awhile to give this a watch but I’m so glad I did, and I’ve watched it through a few times now. You do have to sort of stick with it through the first season but then it finds its stride and you start to really care about all the characters.

It’s another one that has a nice, happy ending that wraps things up really nicely and leaves you feeling good.

Where to watch: Netflix

Happy Endings

Like 2 guys and a girl, Happy Endings deserved to be far more popular than it was and should’ve run for more than 3 seasons. It’s about a group of friends who have to figure out how to manage when 2 of them break up on their wedding day.

Where to watch: Buy on Amazon or Apple TV

Friends From College

There are only 2 seasons of this programme but I still love it for a relatively quick show to binge-watch. In case you can’t guess from the name, it follows a group of friends from college as they reunite years later and work out how they still fit in each other’s lives.

It has a great cast including Fred Savage, Keegan-Michael Key, Cobie Smulders, Billy Eichner, and Greg Germann, and is just a really fun watch.

Where to watch: Netflix

Brooklyn 99

A programme set in a New York police department might not be an obvious choice for a feel-good show but Brooklyn 99 is so funny it has to be on my list. The cold opens are some of the best out there (you must’ve seen the ‘I want it that way’ clip at some point!) and the writing in general is just brilliant.

A lot of the feel-good element though comes from the relationships between the characters, which are built really well throughout the seasons and come to, for me at least, a satisfying conclusion at the end.

Where to watch: Netflix

I would happily spend my autumn evenings rewatching any one of those programmes, but there are some others that I’ve not seen yet that are also on my autumn to-watch list:

  • Nobody wants this
  • Ted Lasso
  • Rivals
  • Parks and Recreation

Have you watched any of these? Let me know if they’re worth me trying!