Personalised gifts for the family this Christmas – CanvasChamp review
Christmas is around the corner, which means fishing out the Christmas tree and assorted decorations and planning your gifts for friends and family. I find the gift part of Christmas particularly difficult because I always follow the natural thinking process of:
Will they like it?
Do they have it already?
So, I am exercising damage control this year and I have opted to send personalised gifts because they are unique to the recipient and chances are they won’t have it already.
But where can I find personalised gifts for the family?
There are lots of websites online that offer personalised gifts and I found a great website called CanvasChamp™ who are offering a massive sale at the moment, with canvas prints as low as £3.89. If you sign up now you will automatically receive a coupon for a free 8″x 8″ canvas print.
Who are CanvasChamp™?
CanvasChamp™ provide personalised gifts, predominantly canvases, at very reasonable prices. They also offer specialised prints, accessories, wall displays, photo gifts and calendars.
My sister is leaving to Amsterdam soon and one of my best friends has moved back to London from New York, so I wanted to find special gifts for Christmas this year that portrayed how important they are to me. I have purchased personalised photo pillows in the past for other family members and friends, and they were all very well received. They still showcase their own personalised pillows on their couch when people come to visit. Ordering a Photo Pillow on CanvasChamp™ is very simple. You head over to the ‘Photo Gifts’ section and then select the first section, ‘Photo Cushions,’ like below:
Once you click on ‘Photo Cushions’, you’ll be taken to the main page, where you can click on ‘Start Order’ to, well, start your order. You will then be taken to an interactive ‘Pillow Tool’ where you can select either a Square Pillow or a Rectangle Pillow in various sizes. You can also opt for the back side of the pillow to either have a block colour or for an extra £1.99, you can add a personalised photo on the back. My suggestion is that for £1.99 only it’s worth personalising the back with photos.
Click in the middle of the pillow in the main window to upload your photo. I used a tool called Canva to create a collage of photos before I uploaded my image, as you can see below:
Once you’ve sorted out the image on the front, go to the back side of the pillow. If you are adding an image to the back, then click the right arrow to ‘Continue to Upload Images’. In this section you can choose to upload your image either from your Computer, Gallery, Facebook or Instagram. When you have finished uploading your image, you will be taken to the Palette Colour Option, but this is only for the back side if you have chosen to use a block colour. You won’t see the colour palette if you are adding a personalised photo on this side. You also have the option of adding text to your pillow, if you wanted to. Finally, you can preview your pillow and if you’re happy, click save and add to your Cart. You should receive your personalised photo pillow within 3 to 10 business days.
Currently, 12″ x 12″ Square Pillows are only £8.75, which is a price massive reduction from £62.50. Plus, when you buy two pillows you get one worth over £30 for free. The code is on the website, so I would utilise this free offer in time for Christmas!
So how did the Personalised Photo Cushions turn out?
Interestingly, the photo cushions arrived in a pink bin with the pillow squashed inside and the cover separate (also squashed). I was initially confused as to why CanvasChamp™ sent the pillow in this way because it meant that the cover was creased. However, when I took the pillow out of the pink bin (which I’m now using as my food bin) and placed the cover over the pillow, the shape of the pillow ironed out the creases.
I am not entirely convinced that the cushion is made of expensive material, but the overall look was pleasing to the eye and I would be happy to send one of these personalised cushions as a Christmas gift to a valued family member or friend.
My dad’s birthday is coming up on 31st December and he has expressed on many occasions that he would like a sentimental photo of him and his two grandkids that he can put up in his office. So, I thought, here’s my chance to send him a personalised canvas of him and his grandkids! Check it out!
Much like the process for the personalised photo cushion, you head over to ‘Canvas Products’ and then click on ‘Canvas Prints’ to take you to the page where you can select the size you want. Prices range according to sizes, but there is a huge sale now, so you can receive a canvas for as little as £3.89! That’s crazy!
When you’ve selected your canvas, click on ‘Start Order’ and follow the steps to create your canvas.
Types of Canvases
You have options to make your print a Wall Display, Photo Collage, Hexagon Prints, Split Canvas, Photo Mosaic, Word Print, Acrylic Prints, Metal Prints, Photo Boards, Lyric on Canvas, 3D Photo Prints or even a Bus Roll!
Select the size
Once you’ve picked your style, upload an image and then select the size you want the canvas to be. CanvasChamp™ will recommend a size according to your image if you are unsure.
Image wrap
Next you can opt for how you’d like the image to wrap around the canvas. You can go for a Thin or Thick Gallery Wrap, a Rolled Canvas, or a Hanging Canvas.
Borders
If you’d prefer a border, there are various options for those too. Once you’ve selected your choice you will then be given an option to hang your canvas with hooks, a sawtooth hanger, an easel stand, or a dust cover back.
Optional colour finishing
You have the option of changing the colour and style of your canvas, using well known colour finishers like Sepia, Grayscale and even an Andy-Warhol effect. There are lots more to choose from so it’s worth playing around a bit with the finish
Lamination Options
If you want to laminate your canvas that’s an extra £3.74 on top, otherwise you can opt not to if you don’t want to pay extra
Minor Photo Touching
If you require any touches to your image like red eye remove or you need to enhance the colour, you can in this section. You can also leave instructions to CanvasChamp™ if you require to change something specific
Proof Request
You can even ask for CanvasChamp™ to send you an email with the design proof before they print to canvas, so you can make sure your image looks perfect before you receive the finished product.
What did I think of the personalised canvas?
I am impressed with the sturdiness that the thin MFI board at the back of the canvas provides. It means that you’re less likely to poke a hole through the front by accident when propping up against the wall. I would suggest you pick the lamination option so that the quality comes out as best as it can get, but at its most basic setting, the picture quality is great, and I think my dad will be very happy to receive this canvas as his birthday gift.
What do I think of CanvasChamp™?
CanvasChamp™ is quite widely used around the world and so has already built up a reputation for quality and reliability. I would say that more care can be taken in the presentation of the photo cushions. But, at least there is a multi-purpose to the bin they provide. I’m more impressed with the sturdiness of the canvas which I haven’t seen when purchasing from other companies. I also found the multitude of options available to you online easy to use and ideal when you are trying to make your gift as unique as possible. I would recommend using CanvasChamp™ as a great personalised gifts service. But, I’d start shopping now so you don’t miss the shipping time.
*In collaboration with CanvasChamp*
Does your personality affect the way you plan your holiday?
When you’re a family getting ready to head on a journey, either in the car, on the plane or by foot, you’ll learn pretty quickly that planning what you need to take with you will save you hours of stress and nightmare, especially when you are taking babies and young children with you. You must factor in food, a spare set of clothes, drink and, if you’re in the UK, a jacket, sunscreen and an umbrella – all at the same time! But, did you know that your personality or the personality of the chief packer, will affect the way you plan your holiday? For example, I’m organised, but I’m also quite an in-the-moment kind of packer, which means I don’t make long lists to tick off while I pack. I mentally visualise the beginning to the end of the journey and try to factor in what could possibly go wrong on the way. Then I pack for that situation. Of course, this means I naturally overpack. But, ‘just-in-case’ works a lot better for me than not having it when it’s needed. My husband, on the other hand, packs like a Swiss clock – with precision. Due to his well-travelled childhood, he knows exactly what to pack. He never overpacks – but his clockwork manner means that sometimes he forgets to pack the anomalies which my non-clockwork manner picks up.
You see? Personality can mean a lot! So, how does your personality affect the way you plan your holiday? Let’s find out!
You’re a planner in life
You’re the kind of person that has a constant to-do list running through your head, on your desk and probably in your bag as well. Your whole life is made up of to-do lists because if you don’t have one you’re scared that you’ll forget what it is that you need to remember. You get as much fun out of planning the journey as being on the journey itself. Being a good planner makes you a conscientious person and someone who pays attention to detail. This is a great skill, but you may end up being the one who takes control of the planning and either you will feel resentful of this, or your partner will. Are you letting others plan the holiday for you? Let me rephrase that question. Are you afraid of letting others plan for you? What do you think will go wrong if someone like me plans your journey, for example? Remember to take a step back sometimes and allow someone the reins for a bit. If they mess it up, take the reins back. But at least let them try.
You hate planning
You’re the one who steps back and lets the planners plan. You like to experience life at the moment and, like me, you plan for emergencies, but for anything else, you wing it. However, you may suffer from continuous planning errors and end up in certain disastrous consequences. Either learn how to plan for the most basic things that you need on your journey or carry on letting the planners plan for you. Remember, however, if you’re going on a journey by yourself, you must learn how to plan for the least number of things that you need. You don’t have to spend all day on it, but it may be worth planning two days in advance and committing the list to memory, so you don’t feel you’re planning.
You love new experiences
You’re an innovator, you’re open to new experiences and you seek places you’ve never been before. You feel you get the most out of your journey because you plan to try and do as much as possible to expand your mind on holiday. You’ll pick the most elaborate places. However, remember that not everyone wants to try novel places all the time. Some people like the same-old-same-old holiday, so compromise with the family and see if you can get them to agree to take a few days doing something new to you all and then go back to the comfort zone. You may broaden the minds of those who don’t like to experience new things and they may end up agreeing to pick up the pace with you next time. This means that planning can become difficult. Plan for the new experiences and let the comfort planner take control of the rest.
You don’t love new experiences
Vice versa, as above. You like to go to the same place every holiday and you pack the same items as you always do. You’re happy to just do the things you love and know the places you go to without having to learn anything new. You will chill and relax, grab some respite from your busy reality, rather than attempting to try something new and wasting conserved energy. As above, some members of the family may want to try new things so it’s important to take into account that not everyone plans for a journey to stay in the same familiar destination. Broaden your mind and allow yourself to experience something new, even if it’s just for a few days. You’ll never know, you may like it and start enjoying the new experiences!
You penny-pinch
You don’t like to part with too much cash on holiday, so you’d probably scour the net, undertaking hours upon hours of research to find the best all-inclusive deals that you can find. You interview your friends and family to find out what worked on the holiday and what didn’t. You’re probably neurotic about the value and want to pay for the absolute minimum, from choosing the right tyres for your car to picking the right seats on the plane. If you can bring your own sandwiches on holiday, then that’s perfect for you – no one wants to pay £15 for chicken nuggets and chips! Be honest with yourself, however. Are you worried because you don’t have the cash to spare? If so, is it the right time to plan a journey? Or are you worried about being swindled? Maybe it’s time to just roll with the punches, so to speak, and if you find a place that requires money, but it will make a great memory for the family, then just allow yourself to let go once in a while. Your family will be happy, and you don’t have to spend too much money on holiday, as you’ve already planned for the cheapest journey and destination.
You’re laid back
Holidays are a time to let go, not to worry about what will happen. You are a mix of someone who likes to try new experiences or can stay in the same place for two weeks – you don’t care, as long as you are on holiday. You’re highly agreeable and you don’t get too bothered when you encounter problems on holiday, like travel delays, unhelpful staff or when someone gets sick. You plan for experience and fun, not the kitchen sink and if you forget something then, what the hey, “we’ll pick it up on the way!” It’s a fun way to be and you make a great companion on holiday. However, those who are too agreeable may get taken advantage of, and you may not know of some dangers of travel. However, if this situation happens, you’ll fix it and you’ll move on. Sometimes we just can’t control everything, can we? Just make sure you’re taking your family’s worries seriously and that you don’t shoo them away for the sake of having a relaxed holiday experience.
Interestingly enough, I am a little bit of all of the above, so it’s hard for me to plan sometimes when my mood is in penny pinching mode, or in laid back mode. A tyre company called TyrePlus sent me an infographic, which posed the question about what people think about before they head on their journey and the road trips they enjoy, which can be heavily influenced by their personality. This infographic is what inspired me to write this post, so I’d like to share it with you below:
So, whichever personality you fit into, it’s important to take other family member’s personalities into account, and make sure you’re planning for that journey. As long as you have the basics in mind, and you’ve found yourself a good deal before you set off, then you should be good to go with no further worry or arguments along the way.
*Collaborative feature post*
Christmas Spiced Apple and Walnut Chutney Recipe
I am not a huge fan of mulled wine, mince pies and Christmas cake, but what I am partial to is creating a Christmassy version of my favourite dishes, like my Christmas Tree pastries, Christmas pancakes and delicious chutney sauces.
This particular chutney recipe has been taken from The Ideas Kitchen and slightly adapted to serve four people. And, because we do not have a bread maker, my version uses a slow cooker instead. This particular recipe takes a long time to make in a slow cooker, so please allow at least 6 hours for this recipe.
The Ideas Kitchen has some great Christmas chutney recipes on their website, but this one particularly caught my eye because I am a huge apple chutney fan and I would love to taste a Christmas spiced version of this recipe.
A few points to note before you start. I have included the cup measurements to each ingredient because my weighing scales’ batteries died on me. So, if you do not have any weighing scales to hand, then you can still make this recipe. Also, each Bramley apple weighs approximately 80g, which means that you will need around six Bramley apples for this recipe. I only used four because 1) I would be the only person eating the chutney, 2) the final recipe will have a more subtle apple spice to it and 3) the boys ate the other two apples…
Moving on.
So, without further ado, here is the recipe for the Christmas Spiced Apple and Walnut Chutney. Spoiler alert – it is delicious!
[yumprint-recipe id=’6′]
(I am using Lakeland’s Crockpot Slow Cooker in this recipe – more details on this slow cooker here – http://bit.ly/2BrNoKh)
(I’m using the Babymoov Nutribaby+ food processor component for this recipe – more details on this processor can be found here – http://bit.ly/2jbr1kg)
You will be left with one tasty chutney that looks like this:
I enjoyed my new deliciously zingy apple chutney with some Ryvita, feta cheese and tomato. I’m trying to enjoy a new veganish lifestyle, so I would replace the feta with some Violife – still tastes pretty darn good, though!
Some tips on what you should pair this Spiced Apple and Walnut Chutney with over Christmas:
Inside the best sandwich of the year – the leftover Christmas dinner sandwich!
My special Christmas dinner sandwich – Yorkshire pudding, chutney, meat, chutney, potato, more chutney
With pate
Mix with Greek yoghurt and have as a dip
Grilled cheese sandwich
Do you have any other tips on how to use chutney over the Christmas period? Share in the comments below!
6 reasons why you should take your baby to Blackpool
Going on holiday with a baby can be stressful. There’s a lot you need to think about, like packing the right clothes, the right snacks, the right mind…
Travelling can also be unsettling for a youngster, so one of the best places to visit with babies and young children is a town that is heaving with family-oriented amenities and Blackpool comes up trumps when it comes to a short fun-filled trip with the entire family.
Know where to go
Blackpool can be whatever you want it to be. Whether your youngster lets down their hair at Jungle Jim’s in The Blackpool Tower or you take on an ice skating challenge as a family at The Arena, there’s something for everyone to get involved in – including your baby! Visiting for the first time can be overwhelming, so planning your activities in advance makes sense. Also do your research as you may find free days out for the whole family to enjoy.
Find a comfortable hotel
With hundreds of hotels in Blackpool, there’s no doubt you’ll find somewhere to stay – even if you book at the last minute. However, if you want your stay to be extra special, then make sure you look at the best B&B in Blackpool on the Toprooms website.
Book your tickets in advance
The best part about Blackpool is its breadth and mass appeal. If you’re a thrill seeker, then you can take a ride on The Big One or the reverse bungee off the Pier, while if you prefer a quieter day, then there’s shopping, museums, aquariums and The Circus to consider. But if you want to make sure your holiday is as stress-free as possible, then book tickets to attractions and events in advance. That way you’ll be guaranteed entry and arrangements will be made so that there’s room for your buggy and your baby.
Invest in a suitable buggy
Blackpool is a big place – in fact, its promenade is 1.6 miles long – so having a comfortable stroller will keep your baby warm and secure while you explore the sights and sounds of the town. If you haven’t already got a suitable buggy for your baby, there are lots of options to consider, such as a pram, 3-wheeler buggy, pushchair, lightweight buggy or tandem buggy.
Bring a companion
Some of Blackpool’s most celebrated attractions, like its Pleasure Beach and Blackpool Tower, are great fun, but you’ll find it easier to unwind if you’ve got a friend or partner to keep you company. Trawling the streets with a buggy is fine, but when you want to jump on a ride or travel to the top of the Tower, having a companion gives you peace of mind.
Wrap up warm
It doesn’t matter what time of year you visit Blackpool – you’ll probably need your warm woolly coat. Being a coastal town, Blackpool is known for its nippy weather and wind, so it makes sense to pack a jumper and a pair of gloves to keep you and your baby warm.
There you have it – a few things to bear in mind when visiting Blackpool with your baby or young children. Whether it’s your first visit or you’re a Blackpool frequent, have fun!
RV winter camping – what you need to know
The weather is cold and the days are short, but it doesn’t mean you should enjoy your holidays indoors or even abroad in the tropical sun. RV winter camping is just as fun as RV’ing in the summer. Here are some basic tips for living in your camper in the winter holiday season.
First things first. Can you live in a camper in the winter?
Yes, there is no reason why you can’t enjoy some fun living in a camper in the winter. Read on for more information on how to winterize your RV for holiday.
Prep your RV for winter
Before you hit the winter roads, you will need to winterize your RV. Most RVs can handle the tough climes of the winter, but there are things you should do when considering how to prepare for a winter RV road trip.
Ensure that your winter camper is well insulated, so you can stay cosy in your home away from home. Check the window sills and access all areas to keep cold drafts out. Empty your water tanks before your trip.
Add about a quart of antifreeze to each tank to protect the dump valves from freezing. Also, test and clean out your furnace to remove all dirt and debris before you set off.
Heated water hose installation
Freezing temperatures can cause many issues for RVs, so install a heated hose to prevent pipes from bursting. Your RV’s plumbing is more fragile and exposed than the plumbing in your house, so they can crack easily under ice pressure. This may lead to leaking pipes, water damage and even mold, which can cause health problems for humans and pets.
Use heat tape to wrap your pipes and protect them from the harsh weather. Heat tape plugs into an electrical outlet with a heat cable to keep them warm.
Consider stocking up with extra propane tanks
Propane tanks are the choice of fuel among RV’ers, so it’s important to make sure your propane is running smoothly when the temperature drops along with the propane pressure.
As a result, you will need to fill your tank more frequently to keep the pressure up, so one solution is to make sure it stays warm by using gas delivery systems to optimise the amount of propane being moved and/or source extra propane tanks to stock up on during the journey.
You can also buy a small space heater for your propane. Space heaters are safe for indoor use too.
Keep the water out
I don’t mean go thirsty during your trip – a dry RV is a happy RV. One of the most important winter RV camping must-haves is a dehumidifier to prevent mold on the walls. Don’t forget that heat and confined spaces lead to humidity and condensation, so ensure you keep the wet out. Also, apply antifreeze to the pipes, as mentioned above, to prevent burst water pipes too. Use a water pump to help force most of the water out of the system and then turn it off before no water causes damages to the pipes.
Holiday where there is natural sun
Try to seek a destination with as much exposure to the sun as possible. The heat of the sun’s rays will warm up your RV during the day and so you can give your propane heater a bit of a break. Some great places include grabbing a day trip to La Gomera from Tenerife or visiting Torre Del Conde. which in English translates to the Count’s Tower. These places don’t just have tropical sun, but they are within driving distance and have tons of things you can do even in the winter.
Cover your RV screen door with thin plastic
A great way to ‘winterise’ your RV is by adding a thin layer of plastic, so you can keep your RV door open during the day to let the sun rays in, but keep the plastic screen door closed to keep the cold out.
How to keep a trailer or RV warm in winter months
The best way to keep warm while you’re RV’ing in the winter is to get moving! Layer up with jumpers and jackets, so you can use less of your heat source as possible and minimise heat loss. However, if you’re still cold, then exercising is the best way to get the blood pumping. All the basic exercises work here, i.e. star jumps, sit-ups, push-ups and running on the spot. You’ll soon turn your heater off because you’ll be sweating! If, against all odds, you will still need a heater, then I’d recommend getting a Lasko, which doesn’t impede your exercising!
Driving tips for winter RV camping
Even if you’re camping with toddlers or on your own, the most important rule about how to RV in the winter is to just enjoy yourself any time of the year. If you follow the simple guidelines above, then you can spend your time during your holiday enjoying the sights with your loved ones. Some of the most beautiful views will be on the way to your destination, so keep your eyes open and enjoy a nice cosy holiday with your family and your RV this winter.
And when you’re done, store your RV with stabilising jacks until you’re ready to take the RV out again, no matter the weather! I can find the rest of the best tips for winter RV camping on Google, so make sure you do your research before you head off.
FAQ
Can I use my RV in the winter?
Other questions asked were:
How can I use my RV in the winter?
Yes you can but cold winter RV living requires some planning ahead. Most RV’s are designed to take cold weather so make sure you’re up to date with RV technology and follow the tips above for comfy winter RV living.
What’s the problem with winter camping?
Other questions asked were:
How do you survive winter camping?
Is camping during winter a good idea?
Would anyone go on a winter camping trip?
“Winter camping puts you at a much higher risk for hypothermia and frostbite, serious medical conditions that can sneak up if you’re not careful about your body temperature.”
Why does the AC give off cold air and then warm for some time and then again cold?
“If your A/C flip-flops from hot to cold and back again, your expansion valve could be failing. The expansion valve removes pressure from liquid refrigerant to allow expansion from a liquid to a vapor state in the evaporator. If the valve is blocked, the refrigerant flow could be restricted or could be too unrestricted.”
Winter living in a travel trailer can be comfortable and warm, even when it’s really cold. Just make sure your RV is heated properly and follow the tips above to prevent any undue damage.
How do I keep my RV warm in the winter?
Other questions asked were:
How can one survive winter in an RV?
How to keep a camper warm in the winter?
How difficult is it to live in RV recreational vehicle in an exceptionally cold weather climate for an extended period?
Insulate Your RV Floors.
Insulate Windows And Doors. Replace Caulking & Stripping. Apply Window Shrink Insulation. …
“Extremely cold temperatures (anything that approaches -20°F to -30°F or lower) can cause serious damage to your RV. You run the risk of pipes freezing for sure, but you also run the risk of your engine simply not starting – or even turning over.”
How cold does it have to be for RV pipes to freeze?
Other questions asked were:
How to keep RV pipes from freezing while camping
“However, it’s important to remember that when the RV pipes are exposed to the elements without any heat or insulation, they’ll begin to freeze at temperatures of 20 degrees Fahrenheit. Anyone who’s planning on RV winter camping should take whatever precautions are available to avoid this from occurring.”
I want to consider living fulltime in an RV in winter. Is that possible?
Other questions asked were:
Can you live in a RV in the winter?
What is it like living in an RV in the winter?
Living in a travel trailer during winter, “…is not only possible; it’s rewarding and, with the right kit and preparation, completely comfortable too. In this post, we’ll walk you through our top tips for living in a camper in the winter, from insulation tips to keeping warm and dry.”
RV winter skirting can offer peace of mind that your plumbing system will survive freezing temperatures. Take a look online for top recommendations from those using skirting during camping with travel trailers.
*Collaborative feature post*
*This post contains affiliate links. I receive a commission when you click on an affiliate link at no extra cost to you. Thank you for your support.*
Why Disneyland Paris should be the number one summer holiday destination this year
If you have been living under a rock, you may not know that Disneyland Paris is celebrating its 25th birthday this year. To mark the occasion Mickey and Friends have decided to venture ahead and become explorers of the future in a whopping new Parade with all the Disney favourites and more. Their mission as they have chosen to accept it is to dazzle guests with super sparkly Star Tours, Starlit Princess Waltz, Disney Illuminations and other awesome events. You can find out about all the new events over in my earlier post on Disneyland Paris’ 25th anniversary or on Disneyland Paris’ website, but here is a rundown of why you should take the kids to Disneyland Paris this summer holiday.
Disneyland Paris is bigger and better than ever before
Disneyland Paris, Europe’s number one destination, has welcomed more than 300 million visits since its opening in 1992 (13.4 million visits in 2016). The resort boasts two spectacular theme parks, Disneyland Paris and Walt Disney Studios Park, and seven themed hotels with 5,800 rooms (more than 2,700 rooms are available in Selected and Associated Hotels). You can also enjoy two full-service convention centres and a world-class 27-hole golf course. Disney Village, which is one of the largest entertainment complexes in the Ile-de-France region, spreads over more than 30,000m² and includes themed dining, shopping and cinema experiences.* Disneyland Paris comprises of over 59 attractions, 63 shops and 55 restaurants. There is so much to experience that you may not get to see everything in one holiday!
Two new shows in front of Sleeping Beauty Castle
To mark the 25th anniversary of Disneyland Paris, Mickey will be dressed in his best to present the grand surprise in front of Sleeping Beauty Castle. All his friends will gather and celebrate together at the top of the steps of the sparkling crystal castle to the sound of lively music, where guests are encouraged to join in and resound the musical chorus of “Happy Anniversary Disneyland Paris!”
“It is rare that I get the opportunity to direct so many Disney Characters in one show… no one can make a grand entrance quite like Mickey!” Emmanuel Lenormand, the Show Director.
The same stage plays host to a real-life magical ball that will make any princess’ dreams come true. Tinker Bell waves her magic wand and the Royal Castle Stage is transformed into a beautiful starlit ballroom where the Disney Princesses will waltz. Aurora, Ariel, Belle, Snow White, Cinderella, Jasmine, Rapunzel and Tiana will all be dressed in their stunning ball gowns and glide to the sound of a romantic fanfare.
“One of the songs in the show is called “Every Girl can be a Princess” and, as well as the eight princesses featured on stage, we all wanted all little girls in the audience to feel like princesses throughout this 25th Anniversary year.” Amanda Cahen, the Show Director
Guests can enjoy both shows in the same location throughout this 25th Anniversary year.
You’ll spot a few celebrities at the Park too
As you’ll wander around the Park, you may spot a celeb or two with their friends and family enjoying what Disneyland Paris has to offer. On 19 April 2017, Disneyland Paris teamed up with British Airways to organise a day trip from the Docklands to the Park for the children and adults from three London charities, Body and Soul, Fight for Peace and Oasis Children’s Venture. The charities are supported by Flying Start, which is British Airways’ global charity partnership with Comic Relief. The magical day out was joined by some famous friends, including Alesha Dixon, Stacey Solomon, Joe Swash, Louie Spence and TOWIE’s Lydia Bright
Discounted travel and accommodation
Disneyland Paris has got a great offer on for guests visiting this Spring/Summer 2017, including the school holidays where you can get up to 20% off your Hotel and Park Tickets package, plus a Free Half Board Meal Plan for the whole party when you book by 19th July 2017. Click here for more information.
For the ElectroLand Premiere, you can get 30% off your hotel and ticket package if you book by 1st June 2017**.
There is so much more to come this summer holiday!
On Saturday 8 July 2017, Disneyland Paris will be launching a ground-breaking, fully immersive one-day electronic music extravaganza called ‘Electroland’ and will open its gates to 10,000 music fans to enjoy DJs, partying and, of course, the Park’s theme rides. You can read more about Electroland here.
Here are a few more reasons to head to Disneyland Paris this summer
If you need to learn more about Disneyland Paris before you book, then check out my introductory post here or head over to Disneyland Paris’ website for more information. You can also stay updated on new events, discounts and offers by following Disneyland Paris closely via Facebook, YouTube or Twitter.
Don’t forget that you have until 19th July 2017 to get up to 20% off your Hotel and Park Tickets package, plus a Free Half Board Meal Plan for the whole family. There really is no time to waste!
It’s time to sparkle!
* Fireworks, parades, certain shows and festivals are on selected dates and are subject to weather conditions and changes. Attractions, entertainment, shows, shops and restaurants may be closed, modified, delayed or cancelled without prior notice. For any additional information, please contact Disneyland Paris here.
** Offer is only valid for new bookings and arrivals on 7th and 8th July 2017.
Unless otherwise stated, images are taken from Disneyland Paris’ website
This post is sponsored by Disneyland Paris
Ho, ho, ho! Jolly Christmas Pancake Ideas
Autumn is the time when we start warming up our ovens to prepare for the busiest period of baking/cooking over Christmas. I usually opt for the simplest baking recipes, especially when I host the Christmas holiday feasts, as the guests I need to prepare for normally run into the double digits. This year is no different, with at least 13 guests gracing their presence at ours this Christmas. Easy recipes ensure that I can plan, prepare and cook everything according to a well-thought out schedule, with the added bonus of allowing me to spend more time with my kids, instead of staying in the kitchen all day long.
This year, pancake recipes are on the Christmas menu. Pancakes are not only one of the simplest sweet treats on the planet, but they are also very flexible: they allow you to experiment with as many different ingredients that you can think of and they can easily be turned into a decadent cake too. Not only that, the pancake batter can be used to make other sweet treats like muffins and other (Christmas) wonders. For inspiration check out the best American pancake recipe collection on MyGreatRecipes. Here are some classic pancake recipes that have a Christmas twist, so they can easily be worked into your Christmas schedule this year:
Classic Christmas Pancakes
Prepare your favourite standard pancake recipe (I like BBC Good Food’s Fluffy American Pancakes) and then cut and shape in the form of a snowman or reindeer. My favourite pancake “art” is the Santa Claus face made with whipped cream for the beard and hair, chocolate chips for the eyes, and halved strawberries for the nose and hat. Simple and effective.
Green Christmas Pancakes
Add green food colouring to the batter and cook the pancakes in different sizes, from smallest to largest (use spoons and different sizes of cups to achieve this). Then stack them on top of each other to form a Christmas tree, cover in sprinkles and add a star cut from an apple on top (stick it on a toothpick to position it easily).
Red Velvet Pancakes
Nothing says “Christmas” better than these red velvet pancakes, made by adding red food colouring to the batter, with cream cheese glaze and sprinkles on top. I love using my Christmas moulds with this batter because the final product is simply amazing. In this case, use a food-storage plastic bag to draw with the cream cheese over the pancakes. Sprinkle with powdered sugar and candy sprinkles.
Christmas Pancake Muffins and Parfaits
Place the pancake batter into muffin tins for baking. I love muffins because they allow me to get creative with amazing, yet simple decorations that complement the Christmas festive table beautifully.
For example, you can create Christmas ornaments by decorating the top of the muffins with icing, M&M’s and a rolo candy as toppings. Another option is to cover them with chocolate icing and decorate with reindeer “faces”, made with candy eyes and red M&M’s for the noses, and cut pretzels for the antlers.
Parfaits and trifles are the best and easiest way to “save” your pancake leftovers. In fact, they are so quick and simple you can hand them out to your guests before they leave.
Simply place them in jars, cover with lids and tie a bow! Mix red and white to capture the Christmas spirit, of course. Pour a layer of plain or vanilla-flavoured Greek yogurt, then drizzle with honey and a pinch of cinnamon. The second layer is made with cranberry sauce and the third with cubed pancakes and granola. Repeat with a second layer of yogurt, honey and granola. Decorate with fresh cranberries and mint leaves. Merry Christmas!
What’s your favourite Christmas pancake recipe? Share in the comments below!
*Collaborative featured post*
How to keep warm with the kids this winter
As the days get colder and the nights are longer, it’s hard to get creative, as well with outdoor activities for our children. As much as I advocate daily fresh air for optimum health, if my child is sick or feeling run down, I’d prefer not to take them outside when it’s cold. The sun decides to play hide and seek a lot in the UK, especially in the winter, therefore our Vitamin D levels decrease, making us more vulnerable to illnesses too. So, how do we combat the season of flus and colds, keep warm, and still have fun with the kids this winter? Here’s how:
Indoor Treasure Hunts
Staying inside is the new outdoors! Global warming and various UK weather reports are dictating that it’s going to be a very cold winter this year for us Brits. So, take the great ‘Treasure Hunt’ activity indoors and place hidden objects with clues around the house instead. Anything from sweet packets to toys can be hidden strategically to keep the kids amused for hours.
Great Indoor Camping
Using the same concept as the indoor Treasure Hunt, camping can also be enjoyed at home. It may get a bit messy, but it’s as easy as flinging some large bedsheets over chairs and tables and you’ve built your kids a little fort. My boys absolutely love their camp, as they get to whisper little secrets to each other without mummy listening and they can eat their favourite snacks in the comfort of their own makeshift home.
Build a large jigsaw puzzle
Depending on the age of your children, jigsaw puzzles are the perfect way to pass the time. I tackle 200 to 1,000 pieces with my 3 and 4-year-old boys and, before we know it, the whole afternoon has gone and we’ve barely finished the puzzle. But, we’ve had an awesome time working, building and talking with each other. It’s a great chance to bond with your children if you’re normally super busy and rushing around doing other chores – like me!
Build an island with all the toys in their bedroom
This may be easier to do if you have boys who hold almost the entire Thomas & Friends track and train set (as my boys do). But, start them off with building the first few pieces and, if your kids are anything like mine, they will want to carry on by themselves and you can be left in peace to have a coffee, read your emails or pass the time with some LadyLuck or Spin and Win.
Movie afternoon
Sometimes, it’s just as nice to have a lazy day, cosying up together on the couch and watching some Disney movies with the kids. Having that time together is gold dust because pretty soon they’ll be heading to the cinema with their friends – and they certainly won’t want mum to join them when they’re teenagers!
There are tons of other ways you can spend time with the kids indoors, like having a pizza party, a reading afternoon, doing some arts and crafts and/or making music. Let the kids dictate what they’d like to do and then you can enforce by putting your adult stamp on it, so the time is spent effectively and efficiently. I.e. kids want to make some food, so draw up a simple recipe, prepare the ingredients and get messy!
If you have any other tips on how you spend time with the children during the winter months, please do share in the comments below.
Superfood Christmas Tree Salad – The Big Health Recipe Challenge by The Health Bay
Motherhood Diaries massively enjoys creative cooking and coming up with new recipes, especially recipes that transform into super healthy and entertaining dishes that both adults and kids can enjoy. The Health Bay are currently running a competition for all bloggers to submit a recipe that is as healthy, as it is tasty. The prices are pretty awesome too:
1st place: £175 to spend at The Health Bay
2nd place: £50 vouchers to spend at The Health Bay
3rd place: £25 vouchers to spend at The Health Bay
All recipes will be compiled into a free eBook, coming out in the New Year. Full details on the competition (which ends on 11 January 2015) can be found here: http://www.thehealthbay.com/big-recipe-competition.
So, without further ado, I present to you my competition entry, The Superfood Christmas Tree Salad!
Superfood Christmas Tree Salad Recipe
Ingredients:
Block of cheddar cheese for the star on top of the Christmas Tree
Natural plain yoghurt for the snow (Lacto free yoghurt is just as good)
Wafer thin ham for the mountains
2 large boiled eggs for the snowmen
1 tomato for the presents
1 carrot for the snowmen’s hats and noses
200g spinach for the Christmas Tree leaves
About 20 black olives for the baubles on the Christmas Tree and the snowmen’s eyes and mouth.
1 orange bell pepper for the presents
1 green bell pepper for the presents
3 inch cucumber for the ribbon on the presents
1 red bell pepper for the tinsel on the Christmas Tree
1 celery stalk for the trunk of the Christmas Tree
Method:
The Christmas Tree
Place the celery stalk in the middle of your tray/plate, with the curved edges face down.
Grab your spinach and place on top of the celery stalk, making sure to shape the spinach into a triangle for the Christmas Tree
Grab your red bell pepper and cut very thin slices. Place the thin slices on each side of the Christmas Tree to resemble tinsel.
Decorate the Christmas Tree with black olive baubles
Cut a slice of cheddar cheese about 2 inches wide and 0.5 inches in depth. Fashion a triangle out of that square. Create another triangle and place on top of the other cheese triangle to make a star.
Presents at the bottom of the Christmas Tree
Grab your tomato and cut into 4 pieces. Cut the pieces again, leaving just the outer edge and all the insides removed. Place under the tree
Do the same for the orange and green bell pepper.
Use a peeler or mandolin to shave thin slices of cucumber. Cut to size and place over the presents as ribbon
Do the same with the carrot on the green bell pepper present
Snowmen
Hard-boil the eggs and immediately place them in cold water to harden them up.
Remove the shell and cut the tip of the bottom of the egg, so that the snowmen can stand on the tray/plate. If you cut at a slant then you can control the direction the egg’s face will be.
Cut a carrot into 2 inch pieces for the hats.
Cut a very small dent at the tip of the egg in order to place the carrot head
Use 1 olive and cut out 4 very small pieces for the eyes and push into each egg to secure them.
Do the same for the mouth, but slice the olive thinly instead to create an upturned smile. Push into the egg to secure in place.
Cut tips of the carrots for the nose and push in until you reach the desired peak nose effect.
Mountains
Cut the wafer thin hams into mountains and overlap them over each other to create a more 3D approach to the decoration.
Snow
Using a small teaspoon, dip into the natural yoghurt and dab over the star and the peaks of the mountains. Dribble some onto the Christmas Tree and over the presents. Also, fill in the gaps around each item with the natural yoghurt to simulate a settled snowy ground. Dot the yoghurt at the top of your tray/plate for falling snow.
And, there you have it, a very festive and Christmassy, yet super healthy Christmas Tree Salad, which was polished off by the whole family soon afterwards. It’s amazing how kids are more enthusiastic to try new things when their food resembles something they recognise!
Please leave a comment below and tell me what you think of Motherhood Diaries’ Christmas entry. Thank you 🙂
Subscribe here to stay on top of new content added to Motherhood Diaries.
