Choosing The Bra To Give The Support You Need

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{This is a collaborative post}

If there’s one element of fashion and clothing that we perhaps don’t talk about quite enough, it’s the support and comfort that so many of us rely on from the bra that we wear. A lot of women are wearing the wrong bra, not getting the lift they need, and perhaps may not even be aware of it. As such, here, we’re going to look at a few tips that can help you correct that mistake.

Make sure that you measure, first

It’s been suggested that as many as 80% of women are wearing the wrong bra size, a statistic that retailers have used a lot to sell more bras. It’s true that bust sizes can float from one measurement to another based on a range of factors. While you might not really be wearing the ‘wrong size’ and find that it depends on manufacturer and shape, you should be used to measuring before you go out to try bras on so that you can keep it as accurate to your current size as possible.

Pay attention to the band fit, not just the cup

While the cups might feel like they’re doing all the lifting and do keep the breasts in place, it’s the band that actually offers most of the support. After all, they are what keeps the cups fixed to the body. So, when you try on a bra, make sure that you’re testing to see that the band is fitting well enough that it can offer support for a couple of steps even if the straps aren’t fully on.

Try different types of cups

The contour cup is very popular, and the most common type of bra that’s currently sold at the moment. However, certain breasts may not get the support that they need from this shape. Larger cup sizes might do better with the help of a demi-cup bra with additional supportive lace and underwire. There are also super cute bralettes that can offer additional shape-retaining support for those with smaller busts, as well. Try out different bra types and you might be surprised which of them actually offers the best support, and you enjoy wearing the most.

Know the signs of a bad fit

If you’re not certain whether or not your bra is fitting correctly, then you should keep an eye out for the signs that you should switch your sizes up. If the straps are digging into your shoulders, then the cups or straps are too small or tight. The band shouldn’t be loose or suffocating, just snug against your back. Similarly, if the straps are slipping or you’re spilling over the cups, it means that it’s a size too small, at least. Take the time to measure your bra size and try again.

Make sure that you take the time to follow all of the tips above and make sure that your bra is doing the lifting so you don’t have to. There may be other tips for women who are plus-size or small-chested that are worth keeping an eye out for as well.

5 Wedding Planning Tips No One Ever Tells You

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{This is a collaborative post}

You can spend your whole life planning a perfect wedding and still forget something. Getting married is one of life's biggest milestones; there is so much to prepare and organize that it is easy to let things slip through the net. Here are five wedding planning tips you need to know but no one ever tells you.

Start Off On The Right Foot

Like when you finally begin to walk down the aisle, you need to put your best foot forward and set a steady pace from the start when you begin planning your wedding. It is understandable that the happy couple is eager to get the ball rolling, but you need to pace yourselves. Move too fast and you'll make mistakes, some of which cannot be undone.

One of your first tasks will be an announcement and invitation. It would help if you got your save-the-date wording right so all your invitees know exactly where to be, when, and what they can expect. Take some extra care to get the wording for a save the date and wedding invitations correct and clear.

Greenvelope lets you send invites and track RSVPs online, and add extra important details to your invites. If there is a dress code your guests will need to know, and a rough timetable of events. You can easily add these to an invite through online tools.

Locations, Locations, Locations

Choosing a geographical location for your wedding may be pretty easy. The bride’s hometown is the traditional choice, but you may have a destination in mind already that is special to both of you. Picking the various venues you will need is where things can start to get complicated. Many couples look for a one-stop wedding venue that can provide a suitable space for the service, the wedding breakfast, and photoshoot spots in between.

The more places you have to be at a certain time, the more complex and stressful the day will be. If you are using multiple venues make sure you have reliable transportation organized for the wedding party.

Set a schedule with your photographer and discuss locations for photos along the route. Try to keep the wedding day itinerary as simple as possible. Don't be too optimistic about travel times either. It only takes one delay on the roads to through your whole schedule out of sync.

Make Some Me Time

Whenever you are scheduling big events in your preparation, such as choosing wedding dresses and suits or menu tasting, plan a little relaxation treat for yourselves too. Massages, spa days, weekends away, do some little things along the way to help take the stress out of planning your wedding. Little treats like these will also help you to build up some wonderful memories of your last days as an unmarried couple.

Make plans for some post-wedding relaxation and recuperation too, you will have earned it. If you have a honeymoon planned try to fold in some self-care and self-indulgence into the holiday. Even if it is just a weekend away, plan some spa time or a couples massage.

Let Food Be Your Love Language

The menu of your wedding breakfast, the first meal for newlyweds, is a very important component of the big day. It can be tempting to go for something extravagant and expensive, but this is often a mistake. Choose a menu that is based around the two of you and your shared tastes. Don't show off with decadent dishes and serve the food you love at your wedding. That's what it is all about, after all.

This should go for any evening food or buffet for the night-do. Take the opportunity to serve all of your favourite snacks and nibbles. Giving your late-night treat a theme is a fun idea. Fish and chips if they are your sort of thing, or go for carnival cuisines like doughnuts, candy floss, and ice cream cones.

Remember To Enjoy The Day

On your wedding day this is job number one; enjoy yourselves. If you are too busy coordinating and not celebrating the occasion you will regret it in the years to come. Delegate tasks and responsibilities ahead of time, this is what bridesmaids, groomsmen, and ushers are for. Set the wheels in motion and let everyone do their jobs while you enjoy every moment of your special day.

It is important to remember that if something does go wrong, or timings go awry, or mistakes are made that it is not the end of the world and doesn't ruin your wedding day. The important thing is that the happy couple are together, no matter what happens. Any small hiccups along the way will one day be a funny memory you talk about at your anniversary parties. Don't sweat the small things, and just have fun.

Remember these fabulous five tips when you are planning and preparing for your wedding day and it should be special no matter what happens. The most important thing is to enjoy yourselves and just let the day happen. Stick together and you'll be fine!

The Art of Giving: How a Personalised Birthday Card Can Make a Difference

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{This is a collaborative post}

When it comes to giving gifts, it's the thought that counts. And there's no better way to show someone that you're thinking of them than by giving them a personalised birthday card. Here are a few reasons why making personalised birthday cards is the perfect gift for anyone:

It shows that you care: A personalised birthday card takes time and effort to create. It shows the recipient that you're willing to put in the work to make their birthday special.

It's unique: A personalised birthday card is one-of-a-kind, as it's tailored specifically to the recipient. This makes it a much more meaningful gift than something mass-produced.

It's customizable: When you make a personalised birthday card, you can tailor it to the recipient's interests and personality. This means you can create a card that's truly special and meaningful to them.

It's budget-friendly: Making a personalised birthday card is often much more affordable than buying a gift. It's a great option for those on a tight budget or for those who want to give a small, thoughtful gesture.

It's a keepsake: A personalised birthday card is something that the recipient can keep and cherish for years to come. It's a physical reminder of your thoughtfulness and a special moment in their life.

It's personal: A personalised birthday card is just that - personal. It's a way to express your feelings and thoughts in a way that a store-bought card simply can't match. Whether you include a heartfelt message, a funny joke, or a memory you share with the recipient, a personalised card allows you to say exactly what you want to say.

It's eco-friendly: By making a personalised birthday card, you're reducing waste and helping the environment. Store-bought cards often come in plastic packaging and are made with non-recyclable materials. A handmade card, on the other hand, can be made with recycled materials and doesn't produce any unnecessary waste.

Image Credit: Pexels

It's a chance to be creative: Making a personalised birthday card is a chance to tap into your creative side. Whether you're an artist or just enjoy crafting, creating a card from scratch can be a fun and rewarding experience.

It's a great activity for kids: If you have kids, making a personalised birthday card can be a great activity to do together. It's a chance for kids to express their creativity and learn the value of giving thoughtful gifts.

It's a way to make a lasting impression: A personalised birthday card is a gift that will be remembered. It's something that the recipient can look back on and cherish for years to come. Whether it's a card with a beautiful piece of artwork or a handwritten message, a personalised card is sure to make a lasting impression.

Overall, a personalised birthday card is a thoughtful, budget-friendly, and unique gift that anyone would appreciate. Whether you're an artist or just want to write a heartfelt message, this gift is sure to put a smile on the recipient's face.

On Being Content

Reading my daily bible today I was struck by the day's introductory devotional from Max Lucado.

“Whoever comes to me will never be hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty” John 6:35

It went on to remind us that there are times when the one thing we really want is the one thing we do not get. We pray and we wait and then pray and wait some more. But what if God says no to your request? What if He reminds you that you already have His grace and says that should be enough? Will you be content?

What a pertinent question and actually what does it mean to be content? Max Lucado says “content – A state of heart in which you would be at peace if God gave you nothing more than He already has”

I know contentment is something I have tried hard to work at over the last few years. I’ve very much realised that happiness does not come in the form of things or ‘more’. I recall a post I wrote on my other blog back in 2011 that said –

Do you know what I believe are two of the fundamental keys to happiness? One, is to choose to be happy and the other is to want what you already have! Endless seeking of things, money, status, time or anything else will never fulfil you!

My gut reaction is that I’ve done quite well in regards to being content but actually reading this devotional today has had me pondering this topic more deeply and I’m now left with some questions to answer.

• If I never lost any weight again and I always stayed this fat would I be content?
• If ill-health meant I lost my mobility, hearing or such, would I be content?
• If this was as good as my marriage would ever be, would I be content?
• If I never met that close girl friend that I long for, one I can really talk to and trust, would I be content?
• If my kids retained all their childish annoyances forever, would I be content?
• If we were never to own our own home or car again, would I be content?
• If I remained in voluntary work for the rest of my life, would I be content?
• If there was no money at all in the bank would I be content?

I’m sure there are loads more but these are the first questions that come to mind for me. Your set of questions could be quite different, as it will depend on where your priorities lie.

When everything is going well and there is hope for change in the future then it is easy to say that right here, right now I am content but if nothing changed again ever, would it still be the same?

Something for us to ponder on and pray about I feel.

Have a blessed week, Mich x

(This post first appeared on my (now-retired) faith blog in May 2016)

Moving from Head to Heart

It’s easy to learn God's word and to know His promises but does that mean we really understand them, or that we feel the security that comes with them? Often not. The distance between my head and my heart is probably not even a couple of foot but actually this can sometimes be the longest journey.

But ‘why?’ you might ask and what I’ve been learning is that we put conditions on God’s love for us. Conditions that God has never imposed. His word says that we are enough, that we can’t do anything to increase His love for us, that He approves of us and that He delights in who we are. Notice that not once there does it mention what we do or the characteristics that we display. There is no small print in the Bible, it is all above-board and clearly spelled out. There is no catch that says God loves evangelists more or that God loves those who can recite the bible from memory. It just simply says that He loves us and wants to be in a close and personal relationship with each one if us.

We have to be willing to accept the forgiveness that God extends us. We must believe it when He says that once forgiven He forgets our sins; that there is no list being kept of our indiscretions. We then have to go a step further and we have to forgive ourselves. We can be so hard on ourselves, expecting far more than is necessary. We do not have to be the best, have the greatest earnings or live the most exciting life. Who needs to be the envy of their friends? Not me but who needs to feel (really feel, like with your whole being feel) or experience the love of God? Probably all of us and I know for sure me.

I want to move to a position of experiential love. After having been a committed Christian for fourteen years I probably should already be fully in this place. I should feel that God absolutely loves me but right now my reality is that I know God loves me and that is head knowledge. It is part of my beliefs, it is because of my faith but I’m just working on the acceptance that there are no conditions and being able to just feel in my heart that I am good enough. I am accepted. He loves me. I don’t have to fulfil any particular mandate.

I need to feel free to lie on a bed for a whole day and do nothing but wallow in His love for me. To feel absolutely sure that even lying there in my nothingness I am enough. A couple of weekends ago I attended an Angela Kemm conference, where there was a fire tunnel and within it I was told that I am a cherished daughter of God, He sees my beauty, He knows my loving heart and that all labels have fallen off me. I just have to walk into my rightful place as a beloved daughter of the most high.

And I’m doing it. I’ve not been involved in negative speak this week, I’m busy building myself up and I’ve vowed to myself that when I do not like something in my life I either need to accept it and move on or I need to change it. I can not be negative about it as that will just pull me down. I’m so grateful for the fresh revelation that came last week that I still have a long way to go before I can say I am fully positive about my life and most importantly about my behaviour and attitude toward myself.

So here is to practise and perseverance. I’ll keep putting one foot in front of the other and being positive about all of it. Praying for those who test and infuriate me and taking actions to bless those who need me.

I am walking today as a beloved daughter of the king of all kings and I’m so grateful He loves me.

Thank you Daddy. From your daughter, Mich xx

(This post originally appeared on my faith blog back in 2016, but I have now retired that blog)

Letter to all Mums from God

Image Credit: Liane Metzler

Hey Mumma,

I was chatting to God earlier this week and He told me some things I have to share with you. Well, not just only you but all Mums, Moms, Mams, Mamas, Mummas and Mummys.

There are a few things that He wants you to know and He’d really appreciate it if you listen up good, if we all listen up good.  He finds Himself repeating these messages time and time again but thankfully He is a patient father and loves to teach us. He knows it takes us a while to let the deep lessons sink in and that sometimes we need to hear the same thing ten times before it really takes a seat, so do keep coming back to this letter and ultimately to Him.

First up, He wants you to remember that being a parent is hard, this isn’t an easy ride that you are supposed to sail through. There will be challenges for you and for your kids but that’s good as it will result in growth for you both. Lean on God, He is your strength in these times.

Following on from that it is worth remembering that ‘easy and convenient’ probably aren’t the answer to being a good parent. Children need boundaries, responsibilities and consequences that they can count on. Those children who push back and challenge us as they grow are probably tomorrow’s leaders and innovators, so celebrate them.

But don’t feel overwhelmed as everything that God wants your child to be is already in them. It is not our job to make them but just to point and guide them, we need to be there to help them discern good decisions and learn from the bad ones.

Remember though that you are not doing this parenting lark in your own strength. You are raising mini warriors for Christ and He has your back. You don’t have to earn God’s favour by striving, you already have it because it is who you are in Christ that matters most. I love this quote –

It’s not what we do that determines who we are,
it is who we are that determines what we do.

Parenting, it’s a massive responsibility, right? And we want to keep our children innocent and allow them to mature at an appropriate rate, so sometimes we shelter them and don’t let them know about the awful things going on in the world as that would make them sad but guess what? God says that we need to allow our children to see and hear some of the sad things so they grow and develop into compassionate and loving adults. Of course, we must keep things age appropriate and we have to remain available as their back-up and support but sheltered kids with a great life can grow up to be selfish adults and no-one wants that.

He knows you sometimes feel invisible as a mum but be reassured that being there for your kids builds their security. Service to our family is so important, He sees it and He is so pleased, so next time you feel your kids or husband are taking you for granted let it go as God appreciates you. Don’t be tempted to run back to whatever it is that makes you feel visible or gives you a sense of worth, just nestle into the crook of God’s arm and know you are in the right place doing the right thing. Your worth and your security is rooted in God so stop searching beautiful mama.

Read these promises and just know that everything will be all right. You might be feeling truly shattered right now, or unloved, or ugly, or broken or beyond redemption but you’re not. You are a precious daughter of the most high and He wants to speak to you in the way you need to hear and say –

I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with unfailing kindness. Jeremiah 31:3

• No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.  For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers,  neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8:37-39
• And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. Romans 8:28
• Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken. Psalm 55:22
• Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. Matthew 11:28-29
• But all who listen to me will live in peace, untroubled by fear of harm. Proverbs 1:33

And lastly, He wants to spend time with you and you’re not to feel bad if you can’t find dedicated bible study time or time to attend church. Just snatch those five minutes in the bathroom or as your child is in gym club and He will cherish every one of those short stolen moments and will rejoice in refilling and renewing you.

Thank you for reading friend and bless you for your loving heart and faithful service.

From one Mum to another, be blessed. Mich x

How to Make the Most of Every Day and Stay Positive

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{This is a collaborative post}

Looking after your mental health and staying positive are important if you want to keep from feeling the blues. Staying positive is easier said than done though. Some days it is just too hard to always have a smile on your face. With just a few simple techniques, you too can have a positive outlook on life and make the most of every day. 

Did you know that just by thinking good and happy thoughts, you can change your mood and perspective on certain situations? With a better view of life and your surroundings, you can increase your quality of life, gain more energy and recover quicker from illness. 

Look for the Good in Your Life 

This is something that takes practice. It has been shown that by identifying the good things you have in life, you start to become more grateful. Sure, you might be having a tough time lately, but there has to be at least one thing that you have gratitude for. It can be as small as that first perfectly brewed cup of coffee in the morning. Or maybe that beautiful sunset you got to experience on your drive home from work. 

When you get up in the morning, stand in front of your mirror and list just one thing you are happy about. Focus on the small things that give meaning to your existence. 

Get Fancy 

Just as thinking positive thoughts can have an improved impact on your mental health, so can looking good. It is the same concept as smiling when you are feeling low. Moving those facial muscles has a compounding effect on your mood. If you look good, oftentimes you can persuade your mind to feel great too. Put on your best work outfit and do your makeup and hair. If you have some spare cash to spoil yourself, get that Gucci handbag you have been drooling over. By looking your best, you will exude confidence without even trying. Check out the variety of this shop online at ssense.com for some eye-catching clothes. 

Spend Time with the Right People 

Positivity breeds positivity. Just as a yawn is contagious, so is spending your time with positive people. Look around at those you spend your time with. Maybe someone is always talking about the bad things in their life, never looking at the good. Try to be around those who are in a good mood most of the time. Those are the people that can help boost your self-esteem and help you be more positive in general.

What to Look for When Purchasing Flower Bulbs?

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{This is a collaborative post}

Do you know what to look for when you're buying new flowers? In this article, we discuss multiple tips for you to follow.

It's important to get the best flower bulbs possible when it's time to plant spring-flowering ones like daffodils and tulip bulbs. Most options will be available in just about all instances when you shop online or via a catalogue. However, you should only purchase the highest quality bulbs. 

1. Make sure to choose bulbs that can withstand being suckled on by animals.

Are you sick of seeing your tulips and crocuses chopped in half every spring? You should instead go out and get some flower bulbs that are resistant to animals, including alliums and Eranthis hyemalis.

2. Test out some shade-tolerant bulbs.

Your garden will probably become darker as time goes on, thanks to the growth of trees and bushes. Bulb plants that grow in partial shade include bluebells, several varieties of lilies, and others.

3. Plant some early-blooming bulbs.

Additional early-season color from smaller (often flowering) bulbs like winter aconite, snowdrops, and crocus may keep your garden in bloom for weeks before the calendar says it should. Moreover, experts suggest using these little plants to prolong the season.

4. Don't forget the three seasons.

Early, mid-season, and late planting are three of the main gardening aphorisms. Choose carefully among the various species and cultivars in the genus, not only picking for colour or size, but for bloom period, to produce a lengthy display of several types of blooming plants (such as tulips, lilacs, daylilies, daffodils, peonies, and more). This is especially true with light bulbs. If you plan ahead, you may enjoy tulips for about two months and the rest of the flowers for nearly as long or longer. Reputable stores offering tulip bulbs for sale organise available options in catalogues to make shopping easier.

The Best Ways to Find a Qualified Los Angeles HVAC Professional

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{This is a collaborative post}

Do you experience recurring nightmares about inhaling poisonous gas, wasting money on regular repairs, and being in excruciating pain? That wouldn’t be the case in an ideal universe. When a brand-new heater fails so soon after purchase, it’s frustrating and costly.

If you invest in high-quality Los Angeles heating and air conditioning services from the start, you won’t have to second-guess your decision. Specialists find that some initial, low-cost HVAC contractor was keeping the homeowners waiting for days. A warm-up was never an option. If your furnace isn’t properly sized, it will keep breaking down and require maintenance.

You may be curious as to how well they worked

Effectiveness ought to be the first priority. Find out whether your vendor has any Energy Star gadgets by contacting them. The federal government’s Energy Star program conducts comprehensive efficiency evaluations of Los Angeles air conditioning repair systems.

Take specifics about their background in school and work experience

Given that it’s likely the priciest appliance in your house in Los Angeles, HVAC servicing should be left to trained professionals. Contractors in California who want to work in the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning sector must first get the appropriate license to do so. A company should be able to get the requisite levels of bonding and insurance, in addition to the required California license. Financial security is ensured in the case of a loss of life or property with homeowner’s insurance.

Why You Should Hire A Professional Photographer For Your Baby's First Year

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Your baby's first year is a significant milestone, and you'll want to capture every moment. While there are many great options for DIY photography, hiring a professional photographer is the best way to ensure you get stunning photos of your little one. Here are a few reasons you should hire a pro for your baby's first year.

Capture all the Special Moments

If you're considering hiring a professional photographer to capture your baby's first year, you might wonder if it's worth the investment. First of all, babies grow and change so rapidly in their first year of life - it can be difficult to keep up with all the milestones. A professional photographer will know how to capture each stage, from newborn to crawling and walking milestones. They'll be able to provide you with a beautiful collection of images that you can look back on for years to come. 

Secondly, professional photographers have access to high-quality equipment and editing software. This means they can produce stunning images far superior to what most people can achieve with their smartphones.

Thirdly, a pro will know how to use natural lighting to create beautiful photos that you and your family will treasure for a lifetime. In addition, a professional baby photographer will have the experience and expertise to capture those special moments, such as a baby's first smile or first tooth. With their help, you can be sure that these memories will be captured perfectly. 

Finally, it's important to remember that these images will be treasured memories for your family. They'll be passed down from generation to generation and will serve as a reminder of this particular time in your lives. So hiring a professional photographer is really an investment in your family history. 

Reasons To Get Away To A Peaceful, Rural Setting For A Week Or So

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{This is a collaborative post}

In life, we all need to take a few breaks each year. It's good to be productive with our time, but we are not robots and we need to make sure that we have enough respite. It would be great if we were a being that could just work, earn money, and enjoy ourselves in doing so, but that's simply not the case. We need to make sure we leave enough room for recreation and relaxation.

 

There are so many ways we can spend our free time. Heading out on vacation is one of the best things a person can possibly do as you can be experiencing new situations and environments daily, and you are no longer putting pressure on yourself. Some people enjoy getting to a beach or a poolside, but getting away to a peaceful, rural setting for a week or so can really reset and recharge you. Here are a few specific reasons why it's such a powerful way to spend your time.

 
As The Title Suggests, It’s Very Blissful 

 

Being in a place that is much quieter than you're used to can be delightful, a real-time to reset. The human mind can only take so much and it needs to be able to relax as much as possible. Heading to a rural location can really do wonders for the mind, body, and soul. Whether you are there for the holiday season or just an impromptu break throughout the year, it will be extremely blissful.

 

There Is Ample Opportunity To See Lovely Sights 

 

Some of the sites around the world are amazing, and truly awe-inspiring. You will have heard of so many different ones in all kinds of famous locations. However, there are plenty of good-looking places in some not-very-well-known places too. Getting away from it all and seeing some amazing views in these areas can change your life. Whether you’re in hybrid campers or a purpose-built hotel, you’ll be able to view things you may never have seen before.