A new pastime (AKA influenced by Instagram)

I rarely use Instagram these days - I've not posted anything myself in years and I just pop in occasionally to check on a few people that I follow. But Instagram still knows me well, and a few weeks ago I was shown a reel demonstrating a stamp punch. It caught my attention immediately! 

The stamp punch is a large craft punch that cuts paper or card into a little stamp shaped piece which can then be used for craft projects. In the video that I saw, the creator was using the stamp to cut out a little image which represented the day and then sticking it into a diary style journal. I loved it!

I thought about it for a while and then of course I forgot it. But the next time I logged into Instagram, there it was again, these algorithms really do know what they are doing! And so this time I treated myself to my very own stamp punch.

I have since been having a lovely time sitting down and making a collection of tiny stamp shaped pieces of paper. I never buy magazines so I'm limited to the free ones that come through the door, along with junk mail, catalogues, leaflets, food packaging and so on. My best haul came from the new Aldi catalogue which was filled with bunches of flowers for Mother's Day!

I don't even have a plan for what to do with them, I'm just gathering them in a little bowl. It's really satisfying to look at a large printed image and think about how you can crop it to make something small and perfect, and it's a really cosy and mindful activity. I'm thinking about making a large collage at some point, or else going with the daily picture diary approach.

(And just in case I have now become an influencer - here is an affiliate link to the punch that I bought - Rectangular postage stamp punch!)

Tips for picking the freshest, safest ingredients for home cooking

This is a collaborative post

When you cook at home, the ingredients you place in your basket can have a big impact on both flavour and food safety. A careful check in the shop will reduce the risk of spoiled or poorly handled food reaching your kitchen. But what should you be checking for? How, exactly, can you pick the freshest, safest ingredients for your home cooking? 

Fundamentals of freshness and safety

Fresh ingredients can still be risky when handling or storage goes wrong earlier in the supply chain, so it’s a good idea to keep an eye on your favourite brands for any info they release about food safety issues. For example, you can find the safety and recalls page for Taylor Farms here. 

Remember, raw meat, seafood, eggs, and unwashed produce can have bacteria even when they look perfectly fine in the display case. So, when you select food in a shop, look beyond colour and firmness, and consider how a supplier may have stored and transported the product before you saw it.

Check the dates

While it’s against the law for stores to carry produce beyond sell-by dates, it’s still useful to examine dates to make sure that what you buy stays fresh for as long as possible. 

Different labels communicate different information:

• A use-by date relates to safety. You should not eat the product after that date.
• A best-before date refers to quality. The food may remain safe after that point, although flavour or texture may decline.
• A sell-by date helps shop staff rotate stock.

When you plan to cook later in the week, choose products with enough time remaining before the use-by date.

Photo credit Ello via Unsplash

Assess the appearance

You can often identify problems by examining food closely - and it doesn’t need to take much time if you’re busy. Produce should look vibrant rather than dull or damaged. Bruised fruit, wilted greens, or torn packaging often signal rough handling during transport or storage.

When you pick leafy vegetables, check the outer leaves first. Crisp leaves suggest recent harvesting or careful storage. Soft edges or yellowing leaves suggest that the product has spent too long in storage.

Examine meat and fish packaging as well. Liquid pooling inside the tray or damaged wrapping can indicate temperature problems earlier in the distribution chain.

Feel the texture

Touch also helps you judge quality. Many fruits should feel firm while still giving slightly under gentle pressure. Fruit that collapses under light pressure may have begun to spoil. Similarly, when you buy dry goods, pick up the package and check that grains or beans move freely inside the bag. Moisture can cause clumping and can damage the product during storage.

Smell the freshness

You can also use your sense of smell when you examine certain foods. Fresh seafood carries a mild sea scent rather than a sharp or sour odour. Meat and poultry should not release strong smells through intact packaging. Ultimately, if you notice an unpleasant smell in the shop, choose another item.

Practise proper food storage

After you return home, how you store your ingredients has a big impact on how long they will remain safe to eat. Place meat, seafood, and dairy in the refrigerator soon after purchase to slow bacterial growth.

Some fruits keep better at room temperature until they ripen. Others last longer under refrigeration. Check storage guidance on packaging when it appears, and keep raw meat separate from ready-to-eat food inside your refrigerator.

Choose organic

Organic labels refer to farming practices rather than freshness. Farmers who follow organic certification rules limit the use of certain pesticides and fertilisers. Those rules do not prevent spoilage after harvest. Treat organic ingredients with the same care you give other foods. Wash produce thoroughly and store it correctly after purchase.

Simple, quick checks help you to find the best ingredients

Picking fresh, safe ingredients isn’t necessarily complicated. A few quick checks and being aware of what to look for can make a big difference to the quality and even the flavour of the foods in your basket. So, rather than mindlessly selecting produce and ingredients, spend a few short moments inspecting labels and freshness, and reap the rewards in your diet.

Garden update - is it dead or alive?

Last year we completely transformed our garden, and for the first time I actually did some proper gardening. Over the summer we came back from the garden centre almost every weekend, gradually filling the empty beds and making some long term gardening plans. 

As winter approached I started to get nervous, desperately hoping that all the time and money we had invested wouldn't go to waste when the frosts kicked in. I didn't dare to venture outside for most of the winter, feeling sorry for all my plants suffering out there in the cold.

Now that the garden has finally dried out a bit and the temperature is slowly increasing I've been stepping outside to check on things, peering closely at developing shoots and anxiously trying to work out what is starting to revive and what is definitely dead. Fortunately, some of the plants that I had lost hope for have turned out to be just resting, and things are starting to come back to life.

I was very relieved to remove the fleece from my canna lilies and discover new shoots. I loved them last summer, and they produced beautiful flowers for months. Fingers crossed they will give me another lovely display. I'll cut back the dead stalks when it is a little warmer, I'm just giving them a bit of extra protection from the cold for now.

We bought this photinia (Carre Rouge) to go along our back fence, where the view is dominated by other houses and their sheds. I'm hoping it will grow out to screen the area, and I love these gorgeous red leaves.

I'm also pleased to see that my Acer is sending out new shoots for the spring. It is in an exposed bed which isn' t the best position for it, so it looked a little scraggly after we planted it. Hopefully as it matures, and as the vegetation grows up around it, it will begin to look a bit happier.

I was positive that my new fuschia was dead, but then I had a good look and saw new growth at the bottom! Likewise there are a few other small shrubs that didn't look well at all a few weeks ago but are starting to show signs of life.

I also thought that my clematis was a goner, but it is coming back beautifully! I'm really hoping that it will get going this year, as it stayed rather spindly last year. Behind it you can see a honeysuckle which my mum gave me and has really grown well over the winter. I want to cover this trellis and our pergola with greenery, and I'm so impatient for everything to grow up.

Unfortunately it looks as though my dahlias were not strong enough to survive the winter, I've not given up hope quite yet. but they aren't showing any signs of life. I've also lost two of my three delphiniums, and I'm not hopeful for my salvias.

At least this year I've got more of an idea about what I'm doing, and it's a case of building on what we have rather than starting from scratch. I've already got flower seedlings growing, and I'll be planting more over the next few weeks. I'm hoping for a second year with a garden filled with flowers!

The canna lilies last summer

The best things for families to do on a trip to Charlotte

This is a collaborative post

Charlotte is a great destination for families - it has a manageable mix of outdoor space, hands-on attractions, and walkable districts. You can move from a museum to a park without spending half the day in the car, which makes it easier to keep children engaged. The key is to focus on activities that hold attention and allow room to move, rather than packing the schedule with back-to-back stops. With a bit of planning, you can build a trip that feels full without feeling rushed.

Plan how you will get around

Charlotte is more spread out than many first-time visitors expect, and public transit isn’t great outside the center, so transport choices matter. If you are flying in, review travel options from Charlotte airport before you arrive and decide whether you will rent a car, use rideshares, or rely on the light rail into Uptown. A rental vehicle gives you flexibility if you plan to visit attractions outside the center, while public transit works well for shorter stays focused on downtown. Make that decision early so you are not weighing costs and routes after a long flight.

Photo credit Clay Banks via Unsplash

Spend time at Discovery Place Science

Discovery Place Science is in Uptown and works well for families who want something interactive. Children can handle equipment, watch live demonstrations, and move between themed sections without long walks through static galleries. The layout keeps everything close together, which helps if your kids have shorter attention spans. Plan enough time so you do not rush from one exhibit to the next.

Walk through Freedom Park

Freedom Park is one of the largest green spaces near central Charlotte. It has easy-to-follow paths that loop around a large lake, so children can run ahead while you keep them in sight. There’s also plenty of playground equipment, sports fields, and shaded areas, which make it easy to spend a couple of hours outdoors. The park connects to sections of the Little Sugar Creek Greenway, which allows you to extend the walk if everyone still has energy. It works well as a break from indoor attractions.

Visit the NASCAR Hall of Fame

The NASCAR Hall of Fame is in Uptown and works well for families with older children. Inside, you will find racing simulators, historic cars, and interactive displays that explain how the sport developed. The building is pretty compact, so you don’t have to spend time walking long corridors between sections. If anyone in your group follows motorsport, this is a must-see.

Explore the Levine Museum of the New South

The Levine Museum of the New South focuses on Charlotte’s post-Civil War history and the city’s economic growth. Exhibits combine artifacts, photographs, and multimedia displays that trace how the region changed over time. The galleries are compact, which makes it easier to move through them without fatigue. A visit here will give you all a clearer understanding of how Charlotte developed before its modern skyline grew up.

Catch a game or tour at Bank of America Stadium

If your visit lines up with the NFL season, check whether the Carolina Panthers are playing at home. Attending a game gives you a clear sense of how central football is to the city’s identity. Outside the season, the stadium runs guided tours that take you behind the scenes and onto the field. Even if you are not a committed sports fan, the scale of the venue and the enthusiasm of the fans will make an impression.

Photo credit Casey Calhoun via Unsplash

Spend time in South End

South End has become one of Charlotte’s busiest districts. The area runs along the light rail line and combines apartments, breweries, galleries, and casual restaurants within a compact footprint. You can walk the Rail Trail, stop for lunch, and browse small independent shops without needing to drive between stops. Street art and open patios give the neighborhood a lively feel during the day and early evening.

Visit the U.S. National Whitewater Center

If your family wants something more active, drive out to the U.S. National Whitewater Center. The site includes rafting courses, zip lines, climbing walls, and trail systems for walking or biking. You can choose a full activity pass or pay for individual experiences, depending on how much time you have. Even if you skip the more intense options, the grounds give children room to move and explore. As with all family travel, plan ahead, wear practical clothing, and allow enough time to make the trip worthwhile.

Walk through NoDa

NoDa, short for North Davidson, has developed into one of Charlotte’s most recognisable creative districts. You will find murals, small galleries, music venues, and independent shops within a short stretch of street. The neighborhood works well for a relaxed afternoon when you want to wander rather than follow a strict schedule. Stop for coffee, browse local artwork, and let your kids take their time without rushing from one formal attraction to another.

Final thoughts

Charlotte gives families a mix of museums, parks, sports venues, and creative districts within a manageable footprint. You can balance indoor activities with open space without spending the entire day in the car. Focus on a few areas rather than trying to cover the whole city in one trip. With a clear plan and realistic pacing, you can build a visit that keeps children engaged while still giving adults plenty to enjoy.

Boarding the Railway 200 Inspiration train - a free and fascinating exhibition train celebrating 200 years of the modern railway

2025 marked the 200th anniversary of the modern railway, inspired by the opening of the Stockton and Darlington Railway in 1825. Under the banner of Railway 200 there have been nationwide celebrations throughout the year and beyond, to celebrate how the railway shaped Britain and the world.

Inspiration is a free, family-friendly exhibition train which has been travelling all over the country, and last weekend it made it's way down to Worthing in West Sussex. Tickets were free, although due to limited availability they had to be booked in advance, and I knew that it would be something that would appeal to our family.

The Inspiration train was parked at Worthing station for two days. The exhibition is spread out over several themed carriages, showcasing some of the groundbreaking innovations in railway history, a Wonderlab which offers hands-on exhibits, and information for people that might consider a career in rail.

I found the information about the history of the railway really interesting, and there were plenty of models and displays that really brought everything to life. There were games to play, like trying to prioritise train schedules to fit in with special events, and balancing and construction toys.

My favourite part of the train was definitely the interactive exhibits. Perhaps they were aimed at a slightly younger crowd than mine, but they were still a lot of fun for adults! We enjoyed trying to work out the best configuration for train wheels to roll along a curved track, and I loved a sandpit table which had train tracks and roads projected on it - you could move the sand around to create safe routes and then watch little trains and cars move around them!

There were plenty of friendly staff on board to help with any questions, and we really enjoyed our visit!

While the train has now departed from Worthing there are plenty more stops scheduled across the country. Have a look at the timetable here to book your free tickets - Upcoming 2026 Inspiration tour dates and destinations.

Preparing your family for life abroad: Practical tips for health, schooling, and everyday living

This is a collaborative post

Moving overseas with children brings both excitement and real challenges. Families thinking about expat life need solid plans before they pack their bags. The good news is that careful preparation makes the transition much smoother.

Family relocation abroad requires attention to many important details. Overseas medical insurance solutions provider support can help parents organise healthcare planning before the move. Parents must juggle decisions around medical care, schools, and daily routines, but breaking these tasks into smaller steps helps reduce stress and worry.

Starting preparations several months before the move gives families time to handle everything. Expatriate families who plan early feel more confident and secure. Children settle in better when their parents feel organized and ready.

This article walks through the main areas families need to tackle. Readers will learn about finding good medical insurance abroad. The article covers picking the right school for each child. Information about managing cultural differences and setting up banking appears in later sections. Building a strong support network gets attention too.

Expat life works best when families feel prepared and supported. Each family's situation is different. The tips in this guide help parents create a solid foundation for their new home. With the right steps, families can look forward to thriving in their new country.

Photo credit Vitaly Gariev via Unsplash

Understanding Healthcare Systems and Finding an Overseas Medical Insurance Solutions Provider

Moving your family to a new country brings exciting opportunities and new challenges. One of the most important challenges is understanding how healthcare works in your destination. Healthcare systems around the world operate differently than what families know in the United States. Some countries offer public healthcare to all residents, while others rely on private medical services. Many nations use a mix of both systems. Before your family moves abroad, learning about these differences helps you prepare and find the right expatriate healthcare coverage for your needs.

An overseas medical insurance solutions provider can guide you through the healthcare landscape of your new home. These companies understand how international health insurance works and can connect you with global health plans designed specifically for expat families. Getting international health insurance before you move gives your family security and peace of mind during this big transition.

Navigating International Healthcare Networks

Finding quality medical care in your new country requires research and planning. Start by learning about hospitals and clinics near your home and workplace. Ask other expat families about their experiences with local doctors and medical facilities. Understanding whether English-speaking medical professionals are available is especially important for families who don't speak the local language fluently.

Research typical wait times for appointments and how to schedule medical visits. Some countries have short wait times for routine care, while others may require longer periods. Learning about these details before you need medical attention helps your family adjust more smoothly. Your expat medical coverage should work with hospitals and clinics in your area to provide access to quality care.

Comparing Coverage Options for Expatriate Families

Choosing the right health insurance for expats involves comparing different plans from reputable providers. When evaluating worldwide medical coverage options, consider these important factors:

• Local health insurance available through your employer versus international coverage plans
• Medical evacuation and repatriation benefits for serious emergencies
• Pre-existing condition coverage and maternity benefits
• Dental and vision care included in the plan
• Coverage for trips back to the United States
• Premium costs and deductible amounts
• Direct billing to providers versus reimbursement

Cross-border insurance plans provide flexibility if your family travels between countries. Some families split their time between their new home and the United States, making worldwide medical coverage essential. An overseas medical insurance solutions provider can explain how different plans handle coverage when you travel across borders or return to America for visits.

Emergency Medical Care Considerations Abroad

Planning for medical emergencies is essential when living overseas. Learn the emergency numbers in your new country—they're often different from 911. Research how emergency services operate locally and whether ambulances are equipped to standards you're familiar with from the United States.

Your international health insurance should include coverage for serious medical emergencies. Some plans offer medical evacuation benefits if your family needs treatment not available locally. Discuss evacuation procedures with your insurance provider before you need them. Having a clear plan for emergencies helps your family feel confident and prepared.

Working with a trusted overseas medical insurance solutions provider ensures your expat medical coverage meets your family's needs in every situation. The right global health plans give you confidence to embrace your new life abroad while keeping your family's health protected.

Selecting the Right International School for Your Children

Choosing an educational path for expat children education ranks among the biggest decisions families make when relocating abroad. Parents will discover that overseas education options differ greatly depending on the destination country. Families can select from international schools, local public or private institutions, homeschooling programs, or online learning platforms. Each choice carries distinct advantages and challenges worth exploring thoroughly before making a final decision.

Understanding the available global curriculum options helps parents narrow their search. Different schools follow various educational frameworks, each with unique strengths:

• International Baccalaureate (IB) programs, recognized worldwide and valued by universities globally
• American curriculum schools, familiar to families relocating from the United States
• British curriculum institutions, offering the GCSE and A-Level qualifications
• National programs that reflect the local country's educational standards

When evaluating international schools, parents should weigh several practical factors. Language of instruction matters significantly for expat children education. Class sizes affect individual attention students receive. Extracurricular activities build confidence and friendships. School facilities determine the learning environment quality. Accreditation status influences university admission prospects worldwide.

International student enrollment timelines require attention, as many institutions maintain waiting lists. Families must understand tuition costs and whether their relocation package covers education allowances. Transportation arrangements and transition support services deserve careful consideration.

Parents benefit from connecting with other expatriate families for honest feedback about local schools. Visiting campuses virtually or in person strengthens decision-making. Involving children in this process when appropriate helps them feel invested in their new school community and eases their adjustment to life abroad.

Photo credit Compagnons via Unsplash

Adapting to Daily Life in a New Country

Moving to a new country brings exciting opportunities alongside real challenges. While big decisions like healthcare and schooling matter greatly, families often find that everyday routines present the toughest adjustments. Getting settled takes time, patience, and practical planning. The good news is that understanding what to expect helps families transition smoothly into expat daily life.

Managing Cultural Differences and Language Barriers

Language barriers abroad can feel intimidating at first. Learning basic phrases in the local language shows respect and makes daily interactions easier. Families benefit from taking language classes together or using apps like Duolingo to build confidence. Speaking the local language, even imperfectly, opens doors to genuine connections with neighbors and shopkeepers.

Cultural adaptation goes deeper than language. Different countries have unique customs around greetings, dining, business hours, and personal space. What feels normal in America might surprise people elsewhere. Parents should stay curious rather than judgmental about these differences.

• Learn basic greetings and polite phrases
• Research local dining etiquette before eating out
• Understand expected business hours and closing times
• Ask questions about cultural norms respectfully
• Help children adapt to new school cultures gradually

Setting Up Essential Services and Banking

Establishing routines requires completing several important tasks. Before leaving America, gather essential documents like birth certificates, marriage licenses, academic records, medical files, and driver's license information. These papers prove citizenship and help with registration processes abroad.

Upon arrival, prioritize these steps for smooth expat daily life:

• Register with local authorities or complete visa requirements
• Open an account with international banking providers or local banks
• Understand the local currency and payment methods
• Arrange phone and internet service
• Complete setting up utilities overseas like electricity and water
• Research local transportation options
• Apply for local driver's licenses if needed
• Register for tax purposes with relevant authorities

International banking simplifies money management. Many families use banks offering international banking services that connect to their American accounts. Some countries prefer cash payments, while others operate almost entirely cashless. Understanding local payment systems prevents frustration at stores and restaurants.

Setting up utilities overseas might seem complicated, yet most providers offer English support for newcomers. Internet and phone companies typically expedite connections for expat families. Taking time to complete these administrative tasks makes daily life feel normal quickly.

Building a Support Network and Maintaining Family Well-Being

Moving to a new country brings real emotional challenges for families. Creating strong connections with the expat community makes a big difference in how well everyone adjusts. Families can join expat organizations, attend international school parent groups, and explore hobby-based clubs or sports leagues in their new city. These activities help parents meet other people facing similar situations. Kids also benefit from making friends with peers who understand what it feels like to be new. Building friendships with local residents alongside the expat community opens doors to deeper cultural understanding and richer experiences.

Staying connected to home matters for family adjustment abroad. Regular video calls with relatives and friends back in the United States help children feel less far away. Planning visits home when possible gives everyone something to look forward to. At the same time, families should help their kids embrace their new environment and create fresh traditions. Each family member adjusts at their own pace, and that is normal. Some people settle in quickly while others need more time. Signs like persistent homesickness, withdrawal, irritability, or changes in sleep habits may show that someone needs extra support. Reaching out for help is a sign of strength. Many expat support services and overseas medical insurance plans offer counseling through employee assistance programs. These resources can be valuable during tough transition periods.

Daily routines protect family well-being during this big life change. Creating new family traditions, exploring the area together on weekends, and staying active through exercise all help. Eating healthy foods and getting enough rest matter during the demanding adjustment period. Families thrive when they celebrate small wins and milestones along the way. International social networks, whether online groups or in-person meetups, provide practical tips and emotional comfort. Living abroad challenges expatriate mental health at times, but with preparation and community support, families can build meaningful lives in their new home. The adventure of moving internationally opens doors for personal growth and unforgettable memories when families approach it with flexibility, patience, and a spirit of discovery.

My "Odd Shelf', inspired by Anne Fadiman

A book that I've re-read many times over the years is Ex Libris: Confessions of a Common Reader by Anne Fadiman. I love it! The book is a wonderful collection of essays about books and reading. I first encountered it through Bookcrossing, which I took part in longer ago than I care to remember, and many thoughts from the essays have remained with me through the years.

One chapter that I particularly enjoy is My Odd Shelf. From the essay:

"It has long been my belief that everyone's library contains an Odd Shelf. On this shelf rests a small, mysterious corpus of volumes whose subject matter is completely unrelated to the rest of the library, yet which, open closer inspection, reveals a good deal about its owner."

Anne Fadiman's Odd Shelf holds sixty-four books about polar exploration, including narratives, journals and photo collections. I wonder if reading about her frozen odd shelf is what inspired me to create my own, similar in theme, collection of books relating to Mount Everest.

My odd shelf is very much a work in progress, and I only began its curation a few months ago. I have many random books on my shelves, but no more than a couple on a particular topic. However my Everest collection is building up nicely. Some of these books I have bought new or received as gifts, but most of them I have bought second hand. This is mainly because many of them are a bit niche and difficult to find new! 

I'm not sure what my odd shelf reveals about me. I'm not a particularly adventurous person, and although I enjoyed some light climbing in the Lake District as a teenager, and I once climbed Snowdon, climbing up Everest is not something that is appealing in the slightest.

I wonder if it reveals a desire to do something unexpected and challenging, something that I couldn't possibly attempt because it involves dropping everything and departing for the other side of the world for months at a time. Or maybe I just enjoy reading about frozen hardships while I'm nice and safe under a warm blanket with a cup of tea and a biscuit!

Do you have an odd shelf?