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Good Morning Lovelies,

Does anyone else feel like March disappeared in the blink of an eye? How on earth are we honestly nearly in the fourth month of the year already?!? I feel like 2023 is zooming ahead and it will be Christmas before we know it. It’s quite scary really! 

However, before I fall down a rabbit hole of decorating the house with festive fancies, I wanted to share my favourite things from March 2023. It was quite an interesting one…

My Favourite Book: Magazines - In March, I found myself focusing more on magazines than books. At first I felt guilty about it, but then realised that as long as I am reading than it is good. I’ve read all sorts of themed magazines, but some of my favourites are Women’s Heath, The Simple Things and BBC Easy Food.

My Favourite TV Show/Film: Gogglebox - Every Friday night, me and my mum now snuggle up and get cosy watching this show, which makes it extra special for me. It was one of my goals this year to do this with my mum and we have now got stuck in. Gogglebox is also a legendary show in our house. 

My Favourite Food Find: Cauliflower Bakes: About a year or so ago, I used to have a lot of bake in a bag cauliflowers, but then I stopped and got scared of them. Continuing the theme of having meals with my mum, she managed to help me conquer my fear and we had one together. The spices in the bag blew my head off aha, but I was proud of myself for doing it. 

My Favourite Beauty Item: Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Swivel Stick - After being sent this stick by a lovely PR company, I got stuck into using it to save my sore lips and face. It has changed the game. I don’t need it every night, which is when I apply it, because it works so quickly. Something I am really happy about because it means that it is going to last for ages. A new beauty hero of mine! 

My Favourite Podcast: The Phonebox Podcast with Emma Conway - Many of you will now that I love nostalgic things. I am a 90s child and when I see things from that decade and the 00s I can’t help but fall in love with them again. This podcast is a trip down memory lane for me. I spend hours afterwards looking up the iconic discussions and Emma is a hero of mine as well. Listen to this show and then follow her on YouTube at BrummyMummyof2 for more goodness. 

My Favourite Experience: The Little Things - Due to March moving on so quickly, I didn’t feel like we did much. However, it was a month in which we planned for the future. We chose a show to see at Christmas, discussed birthday plans and looked ahead for what we want to achieve this year. I also saw sweet moments between strangers that made my heart soar. March may be over but it was kind of lovely. 

What were your favourite things about or during March?

Joey X

Good Morning Lovelies, 

Good Morning Lovelies, 

Good Morning Lovelies, 

A few weeks ago, I went to the Toy Fair in London, to see what great fun will be making its way onto our shelves this year. From Christmas creations to summer solutions, there was something for everyone and I was once again turned into a big kid amongst all the delights. 

One toy that really caught my eye was from the brand Plus-Plus. Created in the 80s, the toys were made to help spark inspiration within adults and children, continuing to grow year on year. From basic designs to puzzle by number pieces, they have made products that all the family can enjoy. Kindly, the team behind the brand sent me a few to try and I got stuck in straight away. 

Sending me a basic tube, a dolphin tube and a butterfly puzzle by number creation, the constructions are easy to store, wash and build, as each pack comes with instructions that are super simple. Laying out all the pieces for the dolphin design, I made it within one afternoon. Instantly hooking me in to want to build more. 

After a few more practice runs, using designs from the company website and the basic tube, I put my new knowledge to the test. The butterfly design was a lot more detailed, but with the great instructions, I was able to begin straight away. 

Sitting down one evening, I was so focused that it helped my mental health and brain to become fully distracted, which was perfect for me. It also picked my mum’s interest and soon she wanted to join in. Both of us switching off from the world around us and screens for a few hours. 

When we had completed the butterfly, I wanted to share it with the world right away. It was a design that looked like it should be glued and displayed. However, due to the way that the product comes together there is no need for glue at all. It is that strong!

Having seen but never explored Plus-Plus before, I am now hooked. The instructions are great, the kits click together greatly and you can build an everlasting product in hardly any time at all. As a huge LEGO fan, this is definitely up my street. So much so that I have been looking at more kits daily since finishing the butterfly. 

Something that led me to find that the brand is super affordable too. A big box of basic pieces is priced at £23, which is great for hours of fun. 

Ultimately, I was hugely impressed with the designs, kits and the whole Plus-Plus brand. The ease and fun of it all is great for helping those like me with mental health issues to distract themselves. 

Whilst it is also perfect for simple hours of fun that the whole family can enjoy. Whether it be a seasonal present or a gift, this is one brand that I definitely think you should all explore more lovelies! You will love it! 

Joey X

Good Morning Lovelies,

Last year, I found myself falling in love with books more. All genres and all topics. The way that they helped me to escape my mind was brilliant. Especially when the books were creative ones.

This has continued this year, as I am looking to discover ways I can better my creative skills. And rediscover some I already have. Including origami. The skill that I hope to deepen with the brand new book, Fold It Calm by Li Kim Goh.

Kindly sent to me, the book includes origami paper and instructions on how to make simple designs that will stand out when shared with others. Perfect for when you need a quick distraction from the world around you. 

Taking to my bed, which is oddly where I find myself being my most creative, I laid the paper and book out to start making some pieces. From birds to diamonds, there is a design that everyone can take on board. As someone who has always loved origami birds, this was where I decided to start. 

Folding the pages over, I found that the book was actually the simplest set of instructions I have ever had my hands on. I’ve used YouTube and other books, but struggled to follow them at times. This one left me with no problems at all. I even kept thinking that if I gave the book to my mum or nephew, who both have never done origami before, would find it easy to follow too. 

I’ve now been making many pieces because of it and I can’t wait to transform my Instagram with my creations. I simply loved the ease and mind chilling effect it had. My anxiety disorder dulled a bit whilst making the pieces, an aspect I will always be thankful for. 

Now kept by my bed, I will be using the book whenever times get hard from now on. It’s inspired me to carry on being creative and I am currently looking to buy more origami papers to keep a good stock. 

Thank you so much to the Penguin team for sending me the book. It is honestly a life changer and I can’t wait to make and calm down even more with it! 

Joey X

Good Morning Lovelies, 

Writing this post feels very special to me! The day I am creating it is International Women’s Day, so I know I am writing it super early, but it was because of this big event that I wanted or felt inspired to share my love for my amazing super mum. Or mother as I like to call her!

My gorgeous mum Jane is a woman who honestly never stops. She is the breadwinner, caregiver, best cuddle provider, ultimate nanny, fantastic friend and above all else an amazing human being. I wouldn’t believe alive without her and the care she has given me my whole life. More so than ever as she helps me fight this illness. 

Throughout the past year, since last Mother’s Day, we have been through a lot. Bad holidays, funny Christmas traditions, sad anniversaries and new friendships. We have held each other up, her helping me more than I helping her. We have made sure that we keep our house going and leaned on each other in times of need. She does all of the work that she does, including getting another job to support us more, without moaning. Even though I know sometimes she wants to stay under the duvet. 

I feel completely and utterly supported by her. When I feel down, she is the first to pick me up. When I am happy, she joins me in the joy. She makes me feel normal when I need it. She moans and groans with me. She often thinks the same or finishes my sentences. There is no pressure to be better than I am. She tries to understand as much as she can and when she can’t she asks. We are completely and utterly honest with each other when doing so. Sometimes, she is a little bit too open. Especially when it comes down to Harry Styles’, “peachy bum.”

Today, I want to thank her for everything. For all the love and support. For her hard work. Her determination. For being there when I need her. For the endless cuddles and handholding. For everything. There is no woman and there never will be one quite like my mum. Mother, if you are reading this, I love you so much and I thank you to infinity and beyond. Enjoy your day, you utter superstar! 

And a very happy Mother’s Day to you all too! 

Joey X

Good Morning Lovelies, 

As many of you know, I am a big fan of a gadget. I love them! I don’t care what they are meant to be used for, I will test them. And I will tell everyone about them if I love them. All of which, has led me to tell you about a fantastic product I was sent recently. 

Magnitone are a company who are working to make products that can help us all feel our most confident and best. Whether it be items for your face or your feet, they are going in deep. From massagers to make up removal products, the company have put their experts to the test to make the best. Something I can ensure you all that they are doing well. 

Gifted the Scrub Up 3-In-1 Ultrasonic Pore Scrubber and Infuser, as well as some Bamboo Microfibre Makeup Removal Pads, I was ready to create a new face for myself. Oddly, I find cleaning out more pores super satisfying. Yes, I am one of those people that love spot removal shows and videos. 

So, when I read the instructions and started the pore machine I was excited. With three tones to pick from, you can clean, moisturise and lift your pores to help remove oil and dirt, whilst refreshing the skin once the process has been done. Starting with the clean stage, I was shocked at how much oil my face had. 

Especially around my nose area. Using it until my face seemed renewed, I then went onto the moisturiser stage, where I applied my favourite cream and massaged it into my face with the applicator. Before letting the lift setting pulsate to build a more tonal look. 

After trialling the product for the past three weeks, I am seriously impressed with how my skin now looks. I have combination skin, so I find that my skin changes a lot, due to the weather and other interior and exterior conditions. 

The product removed all the dirt from my face daily and I woke up feeling like I actually didn’t need to put on as much product because my skin looked so good. I’m actually excited now to see what it does during the summer months, when our faces go through a lot again. 

In the mornings, when I had less time to use the machine, I decided to put the pads to the test. Only needing warm water to work, I run the pads under my tap and saw a change instantly. Out went my old face wipes and in with these is how I am living from now on. 

Saving money in many ways, I can simply clean these in my washing machine. Meaning I don’t feel as bad about clogging up landfill sites with the wipes I was using. They really only did need warm water to work and I am so impressed that I can’t stop recommending them to everyone I speak to. Even random people in shops. 

Magnitone were a brand I wasn’t really aware of until I was gifted these items. However, I am now obsessed. I want to explore even more of their collection and am spending a lot of time on their website now looking at other products that could help my skin. If you are looking for a game changer lovelies, then Magnitone will have it! I promise you! 

Joey X

Good Morning Lovelies, 

Good Morning Lovelies, 

Good Morning Lovelies, 

A few months ago, I roped in my neighbours dogs and new puppies to help trial some new dog food. You lovelies responded amazingly and it allowed me to be given another opportunity to put HugMyDog’s new Venison filled ready meals to the test. 

Containing organic blackberries, seasonal vegetables and only the best prime Venison, their new meals are full to the brim with essential protein, vitamins and minerals and 100% British ingredients. Frozen to help maintain their ingredients and to keep them fresher for longer, each dish can be popped into the microwave for a few minutes before being cooled and served to your dog/dogs. 

Testing them out on her two spaniels again, my neighbour found that the meals went down a treat. After leaving the meals to defrost in the fridge for 24 hours, they simply popped them into their microwaveable bowls and after the set cooking time, allowed the animals to dig in. Something they truly did.   

Venison is an unusual food for dogs, but hers loved it and when we watched them tucking into the dishes, we were really impressed. My neighbours stated that they would probably keep or buy the meals as a treat for their animals, instead of having them as a main meal all the time, but they would definitely continue to feed their animals with them. Especially, with the great quality products they were getting and the good portion sizes too. They were really happy with the way that their dogs reacted to the meals overall. It left their pets full and happy, which is all you can really hope for when it comes to pet food!   

Definitely one to buy when treating your animals, the HugMyDog pet food company knows exactly how to make the whole family happy. Even more so with their latest Venison editions. From early puppy stages to adult dogs, there is literally food suitable for all types, which can be found on their website. It’s a barking good deal to be had!   

Joey X

Good Morning Lovelies, 

Many of you know that I am all about eating what you want, when you want. As someone who suffers from an eating disorder, I am learning how to bring foods back into my life that I enjoy and like. Along the way, I’ve discovered that my taste buds have changed and it’s been really interesting. Especially when it comes to sweet treats. Honey is my hero! 

However, something else I have rediscovered is biscuits and chocolate. When put together, they are even better. Yet, I know it can be hard to find the best on the market, with so many options about. There so, when I was asked to share this interesting article from Warrior Crunch Bars, I wanted to do so to help some of you find your next perfect bar! Enjoy…

Food cravings can be intense. You'll find all kinds of tips and tricks for avoiding what you crave—don't keep it in the house, go for a walk instead—but avoidance isn't always best. Fortunately, we have put together a list of the best chocolate alternatives that will satisfy your never-ending sweet tooth.

Fudge Brownie Warrior CRUNCH bar from Warrior: The latest addition to the renowned Warrior CRUNCH protein bar range is a deliciously decadent, melt-in-your mouth sensation, with a sprinkle-laden milk chocolate coating, frosted nougat core and irresistible caramel oozing through the centre. Containing just 2.3 grams of sugar and 20 grams of high-quality milk protein, this soft brownie-inspired bar is the perfect way to kickstart healthy eating in 2023 while still getting your chocolate fix. These bars are available to buy on the Warrior website in a box of 12, or individually from ASDA stores across the UK (RRP £19.95 for 12 bars or £1.50 for an individual bar)

Graze Cocoa Vanilla Protein Oat Boost: Graze have given their flapjacks a protein upgrade, combining rich cocoa with whole rolled oats and vanilla. The naturally sweet chicory root fibre in this recipe means it has at least 45% less sugar than the average cereal bar, for a perfect pocket-sized pick-me-up. (RRP £2.79 for a box of 4)

The Raw Halo Mylk and Pink Himalayan Salt Chocolate Bar: Glowing with good vibes, Raw Halo’s creamy and sweet mylk chocolate teamed with pink Himalayan salt and 52% cacao solids. Made with ethically sourced, single origin cacao, blended with coconut sugar and creamed coconut this 70g bar is perfect for sharing, but only if you want to. (RRP 2.99 for a single bar)

Fibre One Chocolate Doughnut: A chocolate-covered doughnut dipped in crunchy sprinkles. Dreams do come true! Say hello to a new delight with Fibre One Chocolate Doughnuts. Fluffy and high in fibre, they’re the ultimate sweet treat when you need it. (RRP £6 for 12 bars)

Livia’s Salted Caramel Million Squares: An irresistible natural twist on the classic millionaire shortbread. These delicious Salted Caramel Million Squares combine indulgent layers of gooey date caramel, oat biscuit and a dark chocolate topping. Made of all natural ingredients and free from gluten and dairy, these are the ultimate treat not to be missed! (RRP £3.50 for 4 x squares)

What is your favourite sweet delight lovelies? 

Joey X

Good Morning Lovelies, 

Good Morning Lovelies, 

Good Morning Lovelies,

Love is still all around us. In fact, it is so easy to feel the love, even with the most romantic month of the year now over. Thanks to Great! Romance, the epic channel celebrating all things love and romance, there are endless films to make your heart swell. 

Stars from all over the world are within them and luckily I got to speak to one of them! Marcus Rosner has featured in tons of features that the channel is celebrating, so I thought I would ask him what makes romance films so epic…

Thank you so much for speaking to us! What do you think makes a great romance movie? And why do we enjoy watching them so much?

I think all people are seeking companionship and nothing warms the heart more than spending some time with people who are discovering that for the first time. That’s what I think. It’s cliche at this point but these films are chicken soup for the soul. They’re for anyone willing to open themselves up to the whimsical possibility that one’s soulmate is a mysterious wine-maker or an old highschool sweetheart just waiting to be bumped into. They are the height of idealism in the best possible way…and we need that sometimes. I think what makes a GREAT version of one of these films is: Real, grounded, smart characters. These films lose themselves immediately if the audience can’t relate to the intelligence of the leading characters. Then you need genuine chemistry. The audience can tell when two people just don’t click and it’s agonising. If you’re not establishing that in some way then you don’t deserve to have them not change the channel. Then, among other things, one of the most important elements is a beautiful location. This helps the sense of idealism and escapism you’re trying to create. If you have all three of those things you’re off to a good start.

You’ve starred in some fantastic romance films such as A Vineyard Romance and Love Stories in Sunflower Valley which are airing on GREAT! romance. If you had a to pick a favourite, which would it be and why?

I’ve done so many of these at this point that it’s hard to choose but if I were to narrow it down and pick between these two I’d probably be compelled to say that A Vineyard Romance might take the slight edge. This film was just so much fun to make with friends old and new. I had the opportunity to work with a frequent collaborator in Lucie Guest who wrote and directed this one and I was also fortunate to meet Rebecca Olson for the first time, who starred alongside me. Both of these women are just fantastic talents and fantastic people. That, along with the incredible vineyard location we shot at, made this one feel like a little summer camp.

As well as romances, you’ve also been in action movies, thrillers, mysteries and more. How do you prepare for the dramatic genre shift?

Haha, I have indeed done an interesting array of projects during my tenure. Honestly, the preparation for all of these types of projects hardly differs. I prepare my character backstories and relationships during my prep in more or less the same ways. It’s just the circumstances that they find themselves in once the camera starts rolling that differs greatly.

Finally, what would your perfect Valentine’s Day look like?

My perfect Valentine’s Day? Wow. Well, off the top of my head…I’d be in Bali - one of my favourite places on earth. Deep in the jungle somewhere. I’d wake up late with my wife. We’d have waffles. Then we’d go for massages - ideally in some outdoor/waterfall type location. Something you’d see on one of those annoying influencer Instagram pages. Then we’d just chill for the afternoon. Maybe go for a swim. Then, in the evening we’d get pasta, cocktails, and spend the rest of the night sitting in the back of a moody lounge listening to a good DJ or live music.

Great! Romance is available on Freeview 52, Freesat 303, Sky 319 and Virgin 424 and is completely free to watch in the UK lovelies, so get stuck in! 

Joey X