Itson - A More Environmentally Conscious Household Battery (Sent for Review).

This Spring when you are buying batteries for household gadgets and toys you will be able to choose a more environmentally conscious brand with a lower carbon footprint - itson batteries.

Itson batteries are brought to us by APS (Advanced Power Solutions, previously known as Panasonic Energy Europe), and focus on local production using 100% renewable energy from wind and solar. The batteries are  packaged plastic free, and sourced and made within the EU, further reducing their carbon footprint to as little as one third that of other batteries. 

Home: My Life in the Universe by Mark Ballabon. Teenage / Young Adult Book Review (sent for review)

Home: My Life In The Universe is written by Mark Ballabon, with illustrations by Grant Macdonald. It is suitable for teenage and young adult readers aged around 12+, and is a book which really does make you think about what home is, and where it is...?

The story focusses on Leah, a teenage girl who is growing into the adult she'll become. It is a coming-of-age tale, with the climate crisis and our place in the universe right at its heart. 

Leah is an 'ordinary' teenager, and she's unique, just like every teenager. She feels she is weird and different, yet really plain, and she's okay with individuality to a point, but she wants to fit in, and she wants to be liked, but she doesn’t enjoy the feeling of being plain. She also wants to try new experiences and push herself out of her comfort zone, which she does when, together with her younger brother, she goes away to spend 3 weeks at an international camp over Summer. It's there that she meets people who test her patience and her mood, and others who encourage her to understand that we all have a backstory - reasons why we act as we do. 

Ad | Why The Solar Panels Industry Is Thriving

I always try to promote greener options, and I think finally the world is coming around to the same decision. Solar panels are something my partner and I have discussed at length, and we intend to invest in them over the next few years. Whenever something becomes very popular, the price goes down and it generally becomes more user-friendly, so when I saw the title of this guest post, I was already interested in hosting it... bearing in mind the recent rapid price increases in gas and power bills, solar power becomes even more of a sensible idea... 

Why The Solar Panels Industry Is Thriving

Home solar systems are so popular that they don't need to be introduced any more. Their popularity has various reasons. Not only is it an Earth-conscious route, but it's saving thousands of people thousands of dollars (or pounds if you are in the UK).
Citizens of the world are tired of yearly increases and bills getting higher by the day. This is a way to start being self-sufficient and save money you can utilise elsewhere.
If you want to get started or are considering it, this article is meant for you. Here you will find top advice and aspects to look out for.

How do I utilise solar systems?

The first thing to consider is the size of your roof. The larger the space on the roof is, the heftier your bill will be. A bigger house will cost more to keep up and running via a solar system.

Your roof will also have to be tough enough to hold up all the panels you need. Ensure there are no leaks, cracks, or mould before starting the procedure. 

Search for distributors/fitters. For example if you’re living in San Diego, scan the internet for 'reliable solar panel companies near me', and analyse a few of the highest-rated solar company in San Diego county. Ask as many questions as you can and run an interviewing phase to make sure you hire the perfect company. 

Your weather conditions will also play a significant role, so make sure the corporation you hire is local and has good credibility.

Using your system to maximum capacity

You need to be sure your house will be your home for the foreseeable future. You don't want to invest in a house that might not be the best option a few years from now. Even though solar panels can be moved and installed elsewhere, keeping a certain solar system for a certain environment is advisable. This is because the system will be personalised for the current environment, roof area, and electricity demand.

You want as much sunlight on your roof as possible. Knowing this, you can start clearing big trees or other obstacles that might be in the way of your sunbeams.

Let's talk about expenses 

Once you calculate the amount of money you will spend on electricity bills for the next ten years, you will understand how solar panels are more efficient economically. It is a big amount to spend initially, but this one-off payment will buy a portion of your financial freedom. 

The company you decide to hire will help you determine how much you can save by installing the solar system. Most businesses have breakdowns and remarkably thorough ways to explain how big of an investment solar panels for your home are.

To conclude 

If you are still wondering if solar systems are the right way to go, don't rush into a decision. Do extensive research to comprehend the whole picture before taking any steps. Numerous citizens start up a savings account to conserve funds, mainly installing a solar system. The sooner you get it done, the more you will save, but this doesn't mean you should rush. You need to be ready and financially stable enough to start the process.

Some of the photos in this post are from my reviews of Timber Festival, in the glorious Derbyshire sunshine. We had free entry to review in 2018 and 2019, and you can find my 2019 Timber Festival review post here... 

Sent By Gibsons Games For Review: Out Of Order - The Trivia Game With A Twist (age 14+)

Out Of Order is a brand new game release from Gibsons Games, and we've been sent a copy for review. Described very succinctly as the trivia game with a twist, this is an hilariously funny fast-paced general knowledge for 2-6 players aged 14 or over. Anyone can pick it up and play straightaway, but even though the questions are easy, it's not at all straightforward and can be really hard! 

This is a plastic-free game, made in the UK from FSC paper. Gibsons Games products are often plastic-free. All of the hardwoods used in their games are reforested, and the jigsaws made from 100% recycled board. 

Geomag Super Color Panels Magnetic Construction Set Review (age 5-99+)

Geomag is excellent stuff. It's one of my favourite construction STEM toys, it's been around for ages and now it's even better - in 100% recycled plastic. Construction toys have always been popular in my house, as as science, and Geomag fits into both of those categories. Their magnetic construction system is strictly suitable for children aged 5 and over, and there's still plenty of fun to be had if you are a little older than that...

We've been sent the 52 piece Geomag Super Color Panels Magnetic Construction Set for review. 

I was incredibly impressed as soon as I saw the box. It does clip shut for future use, there's no tape, no single use plastic. Best of, and pure genius - 2 small storage boxes are included to keep your magnets safe. There is also a resealable plastic bag for the other pieces. 

The packaging is 61% recycled, and the plastic is 100% recycled. It's awesome. I'm so impressed. This is the future - the sustainable future for our children. 

(Sent for review) 20 Dreams Family Card Game Review - Recognise And Express Your Emotions...

20 Dreams is a really unique card game, so when I was contacted by the developer and asked if I wanted to review, I was very excited to accept. Suitable for 2-6 players, you have to tell a story using picture cards, but also have an Emotion Card, which you keep to yourself, and have to convey through the story for the other players to guess.

Before I even played, I really liked the fact you are showing your emotions. It might sound a bit twee, but everyone is just expected to hide our emotions a lot of the time. It can be incredibly frustrating, and make it hard to actually let our feelings out when we want to. Playing 20 Dreams you are letting go and behaving freely. It's a rare thing these days. 

20 Dreams is a card-based game, and it's entirely plastic-free (yeeay!). Everything is stored in a really neat little box with a magnetic closure. I love it when games pack away so small, because they're better for storage and ideal for visiting and travelling. You could pop 20 Dreams in any bag. 

National Geographic Recycled Plastic Reversible Bedding Review (Sent by Dreamtex)

I worked with Dreamtex earlier this year because they sent my boys some awesome ISA NASA and Fallout Game bedding. I love their quality, bright colours and really modern, attractive prints.

They have impressed me even more now with their collaboration with National Geographic to produce bedding made from cotton and recycled plastic bottles - up to 12 in each set!

I wasn't under any obligation to post anything here, but I love this bedding so much that it seems criminal not to give you a closer look. Our world is full of waste plastic and it's time we sorted out just what we are going to do with it. Recycling is so much better than almost any current alternative.

So what is it like? Is recycled plastic bedding different to regular pillowcases and duvet covers? No. It feels just the same. It's still 50% cotton and 50% polyster, or poly/cotton as you may know it. The only difference is that this is 50% manufactured from waste plastic bottles.

ReCyko+ Pro Rechargeable Batteries And High Speed Charger: Sent For Review

Like most modern families who like to play with toys, we use hundreds of batteries a year. There are loads of reasons why rechargeable is better than buying new non-rechargeable batteries, cost in money and materials are the main ones. It's much cheaper to recharge and we are all now painfully aware just how important it is to avoid throwaway consumables.

I've tried lots of different battery chargers and rechargeable batteries over the years, but hadn't heard of GP Batteries ReCyko range until I received the email. Their Rechargeable Batteries can be charged up to 1500 times each, but one of the things that makes them really special is that they retain their power really well, so that even after 5 years in a drawer you should still have up to 70% charge.

Celtic Herbal Natural Handmade Skin Care Review and Spring Giveaway

Celtic Herbal are a Welsh company who hand create luxury skincare and other products using carefully extracted botanical oils and natural ingredients. They don't test on animals and their products don't contain sulphates, parabens, chemical preservatives or petroleum or palm oil. Good for you and good for the environment. Perfect pampering for your skin as we approach Spring and start stripping off the layers...

Celtic Herbal sent me some of their gorgeously indulgent products to try out, and they have also offered a giveaway prize for one of my readers.

I was sent the Wellness Gift Box and it's gorgeously presented in a very smart box. An excellent present that makes you feel spoilt before you even undo the ribbon. Inside the box doesn't disappoint, 4 beautiful products - the Exotic Wood & Ylang Ylang Soap, Bath Salts, Bath Oil and a Travel Candle.

Magnus And The Jewelled Book Of The Universe Book Review (age 7+)

Magnus And The Jewelled Book Of The Universe is the first young fiction novel written by S.L Browne, released by Matador Children's Books last November. It is a book with the message to look after our planet, woven into a tale of mystery and intrigue, dinosaurs and tornadoes and an 8 year old boy named Magnus.

As the book starts Magnus and his elderly guardians move swiftly from mundane life to something completely different. A tornado approaches and a Police Officer visits their house to ensure they evacuate. There is a plan for Magnus and he is not only evacuated, he's removed completely to an entirely new world, an alternate Earth.

The Utterly Awesome Just So Festival Review 2016

We made it! Yeeay! It was impossible for us to overnight at the Just So Festival this year, but we were lucky enough to be invited along as day visitors. I'm pleased to report it made an absolutely excellent day out, in fact we didn't leave the site until almost 10pm! The only downside was that we would have stayed all weekend if we could...

The Just So Festival is a children's festival held annually at Rode Hall in Cheshire.  It is a festival for families with children of all ages, but especially up to around 11, and this year we took our 6 and almost 8 year olds with us..

Liquiproof Protector for Fabric, Suede, Nubuck and Sheepskin Review

Liquiproof is a protector and waterproofer for fabrics that is inert and harmless. Odour-free with zero toxicity, it carries no allergic warnings and is the world's only permanent, invisible, water-based, eco-friendly, non-flammable and 100% breathable spray suitable for footwear.

The proofing will not only waterproof and oil-proof your fabrics, it'll also help prevent anything staining them - it should wipe straight off. Liquiproof secured funding from Touker Suleyman on Dragon's Den, and it's pretty easy to see why.

Liquiproof Protector for Fabric, Suede, Nubuck and Sheepskin claims to provide a truly waterproof finish to pretty much any fabric, (except leather, which has it's own product - Liquiproof Leather Protector) without affecting flexibility.

Just imagine waterproofing the bottom of the legs on your jeans, protecting the front of your favourite white t-shirt from dinner spillage stains, or having the only waterproof comfy snuggly blanket at the festival.

Giant (7ft tall!) Recycled Cardboard Wiplii Pirate Ship Review And Discount Code

If you'd told me 2 months ago I would have a 7 foot tall cardboard model pirate ship in my house I'd have laughed, however I do and it's brilliant! A playhouse, a den, the best place to eat your sandwiches and the starting point for a million stories and games - and my boys can even colour it in or paint it however they like...

I asked my boys which Wiplii cardboard model they preferred and although secretly I really hoped they'd choose the Castle, they chose the Pirate Ship. I knew that our Manchester weather doesn't really allow for playing outside with cardboard very much, so the ship would be indoors for now at least, but I still didn't appreciate how big it was going to be - it's super impressive!

100 Family Adventures with the Meek Family - book review

100 Family Adventures is a thick book full of fabulous activities that families can do together in any different situation or with any level of ability that you can think of. It has ideas for in the house, in the garden, on the beach or anywhere families can play.

We really haven't got up to much the last couple of years, which is a real shame as our older children all went camping every couple of weeks throughout their childhoods, so it feels the little two miss out on that. Camping might be something for later in the year, but what can we get up to right now?

Green Toys Recycled Plastic Flatbed Truck With Race Car (12m+)

I thought maybe my boys were growing out of playing with Green Toys vehicles, except for in the bath and sand pit where they're always popular, but the Flatbed Truck & Race Car is a bit different and has caught the attention of even my 6 year old, despite being a toy suitable for 12 months and over.

The packaging on Green Toys is as ethical as the toys themselves, made from recycled and recyclable card, and using ingenuity and design rather than wires, tape and plastic wrap to hold the toys in place.

Slow Toys for Christmas...

I've been aware of the Slow Toys movement for the last couple of years, and I'm a huge fan of companies such as Wonderworld, Pintoys, Haba, Hape, Le Toy Van and I've reviewed for Green Toys, Orchard Toys and The Toadstool for a long while now.

The Wonderworld Eco-House with Pintoy Firemen

Slow toys should allow a child to explore their world and play in any way that seems right to them, they stretch a child and develop a huge range of life skills.

Le Toy Van Wooden Fire Engine

Slow Toys are toys that aren't 'faddy', more classic and not based on a TV show or other character. They're traditionally wooden, although card is fine and plastic is included now as long as it meets the other criteria. Slow toys should not in the main take batteries or be powered other than by the user. They should ideally be produced in a sustainable way, with minimal impact on the Earth and it's inhabitants. 

Can You Guess? game from Orchard Toys review

It's been a long while since we played any games, but this weekend we did. We tried a couple of new games, and the first is Can You Guess? from Orchard Toys. The game is suitable for age 4+ and was a really fun game, a hit with all of us, whatever age.

Designed for children aged around 4+, Can You Guess? is really simple and fluid and the rules were incredibly quick to grasp - even for our 4 year old.

Green Toys Recycled Plastic Cookware And Dining Set Review

This month's Green Toys review is a brilliant Cookware & Dining Set. Suitable for ages 2+, it has 27 pieces which are all made entirely from recycled plastic milk bottles. With place settings for 4 people, plus a frying pan and casserole dish with lid, it has everything your chil(ren) need to cook up some interesting dishes - very interesting in the case of my 4 year old!

Rio 2 DVD Giveaway and Free Printables

We all remember Rio - the lovely animated story about Blu, the Macaw who is captured by smugglers and taken to America. He's lucky and ends up in the hands of Linda, who loves him and cares for him, and eventually he meets Jewel, another rare Macaw, and his soulmate.

Rio 2 is out on DVD from next Monday August 4th. Rio 2 sees Blu happily living with Jewel and their 3 children - Carla, Bia and Tiago - when they discover the possibility of more rare Macaws in need of help, and set out to find them.

Green Toys Pizza Parlour Review

Our latest review for Green Toys is a fabulous one. We've had a very special delivery recently - and it is made from 100% recycled plastic milk bottles and 100% recycled cardboard printed with soy ink.

 The Green Toys Pizza Parlour is a lovely set which allows you to serve up a 100% recycled plastic pizza with loads of delicious toppings to your friends and family.