Category: Lifestyle

Lifestyle, Uncategorized

February Favourites

by At Home With The Johnsons1 Comment on February Favourites

Hello Lovely Readers! As part of my 2020 plans, to share more about me and the things I love with you all, I am excited to share with you a line up of things I am loving at the moment. This will range from my beloved Interior’s through to things I tend to blog less about like clothes, make up and family days out. I hope you enjoy!

Interiors

Hulu Soy Wax ~

This month I was kindly sent some candles and wax melts from Hulu Soy Wax to try and I am really impressed so wanted to share them with you all. Hulu pride themselves on being a natural, healthy and more sustainable way to fragrance your home. Every product is handmade using the best quality, 100% soy wax. For the sweet scented lovers, the Rhubarb and vanilla gives a beautifully sweet scent, without being sickly and artificial smelling. The burn on the candles is great, really even and long lasting, a single candle easily fills a room with beautiful scent. I received the Amber Noir scented wax melts, I absolutely love the re-sealable packaging, I found this so handy when it came to storing the melts and again love that all packaging is recyclable and environmentally friendly. The Amber Noir is a stunning fragrance, with a luxurious depth and notes of dark balsamic fruits and sensual exotic forests. The melts are long lasting and the cute heart shape reflects that all of the Hulu products are made with love. Lastly I sampled the Pink Grapefruit and Basil candle, the smell is a deliciously fresh and vibrant scent, I found this candle was very fast to fill the room with scent and I love an uplifting scent like this. From sleek design to a great range of gorgeous scents, Hulu soy wax have made it to my February Favourites list. Check out Hulu website to view the huge range available and keep your eye on their social media here.

George At ASDA Homeware~

If you follow my Instagram you will know that I have a serious obsession with Art Deco interiors, especially fan/shell print. I have recently ordered a couple of bits from Asda Home for our master bedroom and I love them, I ordered a runner and some new bedding and not only were these a total bargain at around £15 each but they are so on trend. My lust list for Asda home is still getting longer and I have asked for some deco fan print mugs for my birthday. Keep it coming ASDA!

Fashion

Print Dresses~

I will keep this section short for now as I am in NO way any kind of fashion expert. I am however and always have loved fashion and have a bit of a clothes obsession. We are trying to get on top of our finances this year after almost completing phase one of the house so I have been on a bit of a spending ban, but I went shopping in town the other day and could not resist this bargain dress from Zara, reduced from £30 down to £10. Anyone who knows me will vouch for the fact that I love a bit of leopard print and I love a floaty midi dress. I love buying pieces that I can dress up or down and that I can wear through the seasons. I dressed this up for an event the other day with tights and boots but am looking forward to wearing it in the spring with trainers for a more casual look.

Beauty

Pixi Glow Tonic~

Really bloody late to this party aren’t I? On the same little shopping trip as the bargain dress, I stumbled into the dregs of the Boots post Christmas sale and found a little Pixi miniature set that included glow tonic. I have wanted to try this for a long time but as someone with temperamental skin, I am always cautious to add new things into my skincare routine especially when they are quite expensive products. I am about a week into trying this out and WOW, I can see where the hype has come from. My skin feels plumper and softer since using it and after my miniature has finished I will be buying the larger bottle and continuing to keep this in my routine. I am surprised how far the product goes, I am only about a quarter of the way through the miniature after a week so although a larger bottle is a bit more pricy at £18, I think it will be value for money.

Primark Double Wear Dupe~

I am an Estee Lauder Double Wear girl through and through, I have tried just about every foundation on the market but I always come back to Double Wear. I have heard lots of good things about the Primark dupe so was eager to try it for myself. I have been using it for around two weeks now and for the money I am really impressed. Is it exactly the same as Double Wear?….. No. The selection of shades in comparison to DW was minimal, I was fortunate to find a pretty good match in the Nude to my usual 2W2 Rattan shade, although I would say the Primark is slightly lacking in yellow pigment, it still works well for me. Consistency wise the Primark is slightly thicker than Double Wear but gives great and perfecting coverage… maybe even more so that DW upon initial application. My only qualm is that it does not stay flawless all day like DW does, by around 4pm I look slightly cakey and need to have a bit of a blot, but all in all I am impressed. Despite it not quite having the same longevity as my favourite foundation I am going to continue to use the Primark dupe during the week and save the Double Wear for special occasions, it offers a huge cost saving at just £5 per bottle I could buy 6 bottles for the price of my usual foundation, so yes for cost saving purposes this is a good dupe and that is why it has made my February favourites…… but please do not expect miracles.

I hope you have enjoyed my first ever favourites list and look forward to sharing more next month.

Chynna x

*This post features products gifted by Hulu however all words, images and opinions are my own.

Events & Gift Guides, Lifestyle, Uncategorized

Valentine’s Gift Guide

by At Home With The JohnsonsLeave a Comment on Valentine’s Gift Guide

*This post contains gifted items however all words, images and opinions are my own.

Love it or hate it Valentine’s day is a great excuse to show someone how much they mean to you. For me, Valentine’s Day is the perfect opportunity to make sure we take time from our busy lives as Mum and Dad, to treat each other and force us to spend some quality time together- Something we often let slide down the priority scale. Valentine’s gifts can be a minefield, so I have done the thinking for you and have put together a selection of gifts that are guaranteed to be a hit this Valentine’s.

Home

Dartington Crystal Cushion Large Heather Vase

This stunning hand made vase by the iconic Dartington Crystal is guaranteed to put a smile on her face this Valentine’s day. The Heather coloured glass has been designed with a delicate optic effect and features an indented base that helps to retain or splay out floral displays. This beautifully simplistic and chic vase is one of a huge collection of stunning vases by Dartington. Check out their range and order yours here.

Sassy Shop Wax Melts

Sassy shop Wax offer a huge range of beautifully scented melts to suit everyone, meaning that they will make a fantastic gift for your loved one this Valentine’s day. Their brightly coloured and thoughtfully designed bars are offered in a vast range of scents, from scents to create a relaxing environment to scents made to lift and invigorate, these are a true crowd pleaser. The melts are long burning and release powerful scents around the home. Head to Sassy shop wax website or social media to discover their gorgeous fragrance range.

Handmade Perfect4u Candles

Always a crowd pleaser, candles always make for a great Valentine’s gift. Handmade Perfect4u offer a fabulous range of scented candles and diffusers at affordable prices. I was kindly sent the Cassis and Fig candle to try and I am really impressed with the scent and burn. The Cassis is rich and teams perfectly with the sweet scent of fig for a well balanced and lovely fragrance. Soy wax delivers a clean and toxin free burn that is environmentally friendly. Discover Handmade Perfect4u range here.

ProCook Crystal Champagne Glasses

Valentine’s is the perfect excuse to reach for the bubbles, so do it in style with these ProCook crystal champagne glasses. With their stylish, angled design and long elegant stems, the ProCook crystal champagne glasses are guaranteed to add a touch of modern sophistication to your date night. Made from quality crystal glass these stunning glasses really have the wow factor and make a great gift. These timeless classics will be used again and again, sold in a pack of 4 so that you can share the love, get yours here.

Tesalate Towel for Two

Winter can feel extremely long and dull, so it’s probably not a surprise to hear that February is the most popular month for brits to head on holiday for some winter sun! If you have plans to escape the cold or just want to gift someone the promise of summer, then this towel for two is the perfect gift. Tesalate offer a huge range of sand free, fast drying towels, in the most stylish designs. Photographed is the bohemian towel for two, the quality of these beach towels is amazing and it’s big enough for two, how romantic. Get yours here.

Her

Yardley English Dahlia Eau de Toilette

Forming part of their floral classics range, Yardley classic floral scents are always a fabulous gift for women. Inspired by a diverse variety of flowers and containing an impressive 90% naturally derived ingredients. The delicate fragrance of Dahlia is met with fresh citrus notes, a warming patchouli and musk base making this divine fragrance wearable every day. Yardley offer an extensive range of timeless florals to suit all, check out their full range here.

Dr. PAWPAW Ultimate Red Balm

Another beauty wonder from the makers of Dr Pawpaw Original Balm, this nourishing lip balm is all you need to make your lips kissable this Valentine’s day. This balm has a subtle pinkie red tint that gives your lips and cheeks the perfect pop of colour. This paw paw balm is made in the UK from a variety of natural ingredients including the ingredient fermented Pawpaw, the fruit of the plant Carica Papaya. The Pawpaw has been found to have natural healing qualities and that’s why this nourishing balm is a must have. This make up bag staple is available to buy at Sainsburys.

Pretty You London Sleepwear

Effortlessly sexy and plush, this Animal Spot Cami and shorts set makes the perfect Valentine’s gift. This cami short pyjama set really feels special, finished with a chiffon layer trim and subtle Pretty You London branding, it drapes perfectly over the body for a sophisticated yet sexy look. The elasticated waistband and loose fitting shape make this the perfect pyjama set for your loved one. Check out Pretty You London’s stunning range here.

Him

Bulldog Skincare

A firm favourite among men, Bulldog is skincare for men, made easy. From the classics to more advanced skin care, there is something guaranteed to please everyone. The Original Bamboo Razor has everything he needs for a great shave, if he is bearded, the fast absorbing and nourishing beard oil will make the perfect treat. Team with Bulldog’s classics such as shower gel and moisturiser and you will be on to a winner this Valentine’s. Shop the full range here.

Trendhim Anchor Clasp Bracelet

Not sure what to buy the man who has it all? Look no further than Trendhim for all of your stylish male gifting needs. From Bracelets and watches to bow ties, Trendhim has it all. This gorgeous black and gold clasp stacked bracelet features an on trend nautical steel closure that hooks on to the luxury leather straps. Explore Trendhim’s extensive and stylish range of bracelets here.

Dear Barber Style & Go Collection

When it comes to hair many men are set in their ways, Dear Barber are set to change that. The unique styling and grooming range allow men to experience luxury grooming at home, every day. With it’s stylish yet traditional vibe, the Dear Barber style and go boxes are sure to be a huge hit with your man this Valentine’s. Absolutely everything from the Dear Barber range is made in the UK, for a true and authentic traditional feel. The products ooze luxury and grandeur but at a surprisingly affordable price. Check out the range here.

Food and Drink

Mermaid Pink Gin

Generally speaking, you can’t for far wrong with a boozy gift, especially Gin! The gorgeous and striking bottle (plastic free may I add) in it’s pink design means that it looks perfect as a valentine’s gift. Inspired by it’s Isle of Wight setting, Mermaid pink gin is made from ethically sourced and totally natural ingredients. The gin itself is aromatic and refreshing with it’s infusion of fresh island strawberries, zesty lemon and a subtle hint of savoury rock samphire. I love the taste of this gin, it is far less sickly sweet than other pink gins that I have tried and a much cleaner flavour, you can tell there are no artificial sweeteners in it and every taste left me impressed. You can pick yours up at Marks and Spencer’s this Valentine’s or click here to find out more.

Myprotein Protein Truffles and Spread

Although Valentine’s makes most people reach for the flowers and chocolate, many of us (me included) are still keeping up our good intentions for the new year and trying to loose those pesky Christmas pounds! Myprotein have come up with the perfect solution so that you can indulge in chocolatey treats this Valentine’s, without the guilt. Packing a massive 2.6g of protein per truffle, these melt in your mouth sensations are the perfect Valentines treat for your health concious loved one. The truffles are velvety smooth and pack a real chocolate kick, they are almost brownie like in their richness. The chocolate spread is equally delicious, it has a silky texture and will be perfect as a guilt free solution for dipping fruit this Valentine’s. Don’t miss out on tasaty treats this Valentine’s, Get yours here.

Guylain Chocolates

Known and loved by many, this Valentine’s classic by Guylian is certain to make a great Valentine’s gift. Guylian creates all of it’s great tasting chocolates with only the finest Belgian chocolate. These Praline Hearts in their eye-catching red box, are marbled and filled with delicious roasted hazelnut praline. An elegant and timeless classic, get yours here.

Perky Blenders Coffee

Variety is the spice of life as they say and Perky Blenders have it in abundance. Their team is passionate about providing an extremely high quality product with excellent service. As well as providing an incredible selection of top quality coffee Perky Blenders also offer coffee subscriptions through their website, the perfect gift for a coffee lover this Valentine’s. Roasted daily, to make sure their coffee is at it’s freshest, convinient letterbox friendly and biodegradable packaging and a great variety of delicious blends, every coffee lovers dream! Get yours here.

Lifestyle, Uncategorized

2020 Goals

by At Home With The JohnsonsLeave a Comment on 2020 Goals

I am, and have always been that wanker who loves a new year! There is just something about the feeling of a new and fresh year ahead of me that I just love. I am not going to lie, every year I set resolutions that I NEVER keep, maybe they are unrealistic? maybe I don’t handle the pressure of resolutions well? or maybe I have just been doing it wrong? That is why this year I am ditching the word resolution in favour of goals. For me this year is going to be about small changes that give big results.

Write more

Staring this blog mid last year has opened up something inside of me that I did not know still existed. I spent most of my school years being distinctly average in every subject bar English and this was purely because it was the only thing I have ever been truly passionate about. Writing, reading and all things words feels good for my soul. As I have touched on before, being a stay at home mum for near on a decade has been incredible but has also left me feeling a bit lost now that I am no longer attached to a baby or toddler 24/7. Not only am I hoping that 2020 will bring more success with my blog and social media but I am also learning that writing anything seems to help me be the best version of myself. I treated myself and my sister to Goodbye 2019 Hello 2020 by the inspirational ladies at project love and I am hooked! Putting my dreams, goals and feelings on paper has been incredibly therapeutic and the questions really provoked me to dig deep in myself to answer what I truly want moving forward-seriously recommend.

Lose Weight

Ok so if I write this down I am more likely to stick to it…. I hope. I don’t deal well with stress, upheaval or change. I can tell you exactly when it all started going wrong and it was during the process of buying this house, then followed the move, the loneliness of leaving my friends, and of course the craziness that renovating brings. As a really rubbish result I have gained weight and it’s time to stop ignoring it and do something about it. I have always been a bit of a yoyo dieter and the older I get, the more I am realising my weight is greatly affected by my mental health and my mental health is greatly affected by my weight, it is a totally vicious cycle but I feel that recognising this and my pattern of behaviour has given me the determination to work on myself this year. Following on from my love of writing, I ordered a three month food planner from Fox and Moon which includes a daily food diary, meal planner and weight loss pages, I am finding writing all of these down really helps to keep me on track and visualise where I am and where I want to be.

Less Screen Time

Of course on first glance this goal does not exactly go hand in hand with my goal to Blog more, but the screen time I am talking about is not blogging, emails and working on content, it’s the mindless times when you realise you are looking down at a screen when you should be looking up. I am the only person in the family who takes photos…. seriously if you checked my husbands camera roll you would not know me and the kids existed, with that said I will still be taking my phone out with me but handing it over to my husbands pocket as much as possible so I can keep my mind focused on family time, especially at weekends. The children are growing too fast and I don’t want to miss a thing.

Whatever your 2020 goals are, I hope you all have a fantastic start to the year.

Chynna xxx