I’ve always been a bit of a Christmas traditionalist. Not full-on Victorian, but I do like my festive season to follow a certain rhythm: twinkly lights going up the first weekend of December, dodgy school nativity performances, a panicked hunt for sellotape on Christmas Eve, and a solid stretch of lounging about in elasticated waistbands …
Moving house is often described as one of life’s most stressful events, but when you are moving your entire family, the pressure multiplies. It is not just about changing addresses; it’s about disruption to your children’s routines, the emotional strain on your partner, school transitions and often, financial pressure that builds with every delay or …
We had a family trip to Worthing on the South Coast a few weeks back. My other half’s family lives down there, so every now and again we pack up our lives and make the day long journey from the North West. I never look forward to it. That’s got nothing to do with my …
There are few moments in parenting that fill dads with dread quite like The Talk. Not the “where do babies come from?” talk—although that’s a solid contender—but the one where you sit your son down, try to explain what puberty is, and somehow survive the mutual awkwardness without either of you combusting into a cloud …
There’s something magical about the moment your feet hit warm sand or the air turns crisp as you climb higher into the hills. Each destination offers not just new views, but new emotions, lessons, and stories waiting to be captured. That’s where a travel journal becomes more than a notebook—it becomes a trusted companion, a …
I remember the moment we first downloaded YouTube Kids. It was one of those wet Sunday afternoons when everyone had had enough of each other, and the promise of safe, child-friendly video content sounded like a lifeline. And, to be fair, it has been helpful. But if you’re imagining a utopia of gentle storytelling and …
When I became a new dad, I quickly learned that a sleeping baby is a precious gift. Those blissful moments of quiet can feel like a rare oasis in the chaos of early parenthood. But what to do with this newfound freedom? While the temptation to simply collapse on the sofa is strong, I discovered …
The concept of “push presents” – gifts bestowed upon new mothers by their partners to commemorate childbirth – has sparked a spirited debate. It’s a new idea, and that makes many people including myself sceptical. Is this a real or necessary thing, or a ploy by a marketing company somewhere to increase sales of diamonds? …
Ah, the joys of fatherhood! One minute you’re changing nappies, and the next, you’re teaching your lad how to wield a razor without looking like he’s been in a fight with a lawnmower. It’s a rite of passage, really – the moment when you realise your little boy is growing up faster than you can …
You’re not alone if you’re living in Scotland and struggling with debt. Many people face overwhelming financial pressure at some point. The good news is there are ways to manage your debt and even write some off. One of the most effective tools available in Scotland is a Trust Deed. But how does it work, …