After the past couple of years, you could be forgiven for dreaming of a holiday, so while we are dreaming, have you thought where would go if you won the lottery? If suddenly, you had all the time and money to explore anywhere you could think of, where would you begin? We live in an amazing world! Annually, the world spends billions looking at the planets that make up our solar system to discover the unique and unusual formations that created their surfaces. In reality, many of us do not know about the unique anomalies that create the surface of our own planet. 

You do not have to wait for civilian space travel to see these sites. With modern technology, we can travel around the world. We can literally cross the world within hours, and there are wonderful otherworldly sites all over the world.

Hallerbos Forest, Belgium

In the tiny country of Belgium, you will find the Hallerbos Forest. Each year in April, the forest bed blooms with a carpet of bluebells. In full bloom, it looks more like a painting than a real forest, and people travel to see it because it is said to look and feel magical. Deer and other animals are often seen in the forest and seem to have little fear of people as long as they stay on the provided paths. It is as if they know they are safe at that time, even from humans.

Gough’s Cave, Cheddar Gorge

Here, you'll find lovely reflective pools. There are also unique formations of stalagmites and stalactites. The beauty of the rock formations and the sounds of the cave give it a mystical atmosphere. The cave is less than an hour's drive away from Bristol.

                                                                       

Faroe Islands                                                         

Halfway between the UK and Iceland are 18 volcanic islands known as the Faroe Islands. These islands have been settled at least since the Viking’s days. They look as though they would belong to Scotland, but the Faroe Islands are actually the property of Denmark. Canoeing and hiking are just two of the favorite things to do on these beautiful islands of mountains, valleys, and the sea.

List of other leading attractions to the “Weird but Wonderful”

18th- century Painshill Park Grotto in Surrey

Just a short train ride from London, this 18th-century gardens park is a fairy-tail grotto covered in hundreds of thousands of crystals! This is truly a unique site. Where else would it be seen anywhere in the world?

Fingal’s Cave, Island of Staffa, Scotland

Located on the uninhabited island of Staffa is Fingal’s Cave. It is made of hexagonal columns of basaltic rock. It is a strange but beautiful sight. The quiet of the empty island and the beauty of the cave is eerie. If the sea is mild you can pass it by boat but it is not impossible to reach the cave on foot.

The Brimham Rocks, North Yorkshire

Created several hundreds of years ago, these stacked rock formations seem to defy gravity. Each formation has its own name such as The Eagle and The Dancing Bear.

“Dinosaur Egg Beach”, Porth Naven

The landscape of this beach has become very popular due to the unusual deposits of boulder deposits there. The rocks look like smooth eggs that range from the size of a hen’s egg to three feet or more in length. They form a stunning scene that looks very much like you would expect a dinosaur nest to resemble. The area has become so popular that the stones are now legally protected by the National Trust.

The Isle of Lewis, Callanish prehistoric stone circle

This mysterious stone circle is said to be over 5,000 years old. There are many legends that surround them. Some folks believe they were used as an astronomical calendar. Others believe folklore that they were petrified giants that were turned to stone when they refused to turn to Christianity. They are a sight to behold.

 When you think about the vast UK, the differences in climate, customs, and histories of people, it is easy to understand why exploring the UK would be like exploring otherworldly places.  When you discover the treasures hidden in the earth, sun-baked soils, rain-soaked forests, and the sea, you can understand why one culture has nothing in common with its sister country. Yet, we are one planet. We are one world. We must fix all of the illnesses of the planet, or we all fail.

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Veganuary is a new concept that encourages people to try a vegan diet throughout the month of January but what happens as January ends?

With there being a lot more focus on sustainability one way you can do that is reducing or even stopping any meat and meat product consumption within your household. However, going completely vegan may seem like a bit of a challenge. So if you have enjoyed vegan choices during Veganuary or you are hoping to making more of a switch to vegan here are some of the tips to help you stick with it. 

Be organised

One of the best things you can do is to be organised with your food and drinks shopping lists. Make a note of products you use regularly and then do online shops so that you won’t be caught out buying something in a store that isn’t vegan. Some of the hardest things to spot are the items that are not obviously vegan, such as alcohol, for example. Shopping online gives you the chance to check the finer print to ensure the products you are buying are vegan. 

Meal plan and batch cook

Another temptation you might find is those days and evenings when you are unsure what to cook or you have prepared something in advance. Those are the times people are more likely to call for a takeout option or be more tempted to not make a vegan meal. Instead meal plan and batch cook where possible. Don’t give yourself an opportunity to fail. 

Cookbooks can be useful 

Often people find it difficult to stick with a vegan diet because they are unsure of what to cook or don’t feel as inspired in the kitchen. This is where cookbooks can be useful. One option would be to invest in a decent vegan cookbook but if you are wanting to just try things out then a great option is to check out your local library. You might be surprised what cookbooks are there and it will give you the incentive to try some out before the book needs to be returned. Plus if you like the book you could always buy it. 

Let people know what you are doing 

It is important to let your friends and family know that you are embarking on a vegan diet and lifestyle. If you can, try and get the whole family on board as this can make it easier when cooking meals and provides you less temptation. Your friends can also encourage you and help you to stay on track. 

Is this just about the food or the lifestyle?

Something to think about is whether Veganuary is just about the food and drink you consume or is it about the lifestyle? This means making further changes such as the things you wear or have in your home. Many people start with food and drink and progress on to other areas of their lives. You need to ensure that you think about whether the things you have are made from animals or animal products. 

Making more sustainable and vegan food choices doesn't have to be overwhelming, making small changes can make a huge difference to you and the planet.

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We have all been there I am sure. Mum guilt is something that can hit us all very hard at any stage of parenthood. It doesn’t matter if it is feeling guilty because you gave your child chicken nuggets or fish fingers for dinner again, or that you haven’t had a chance to spend time with them and you have relied heavily on the tablet. These are just a few examples but mum guilt can strike at any time for any reason and it can make us all feel pretty rubbish. However, you are not alone, and there are some positive solutions that you can try if you find yourself struggling with mum guilt at the moment.

With that in mind, here are some of the things to consider. 

Take some time out to breathe

One thing you must do if you are starting to feel overwhelmed and feeling all of the mum guilt is to take some time out to breathe. It might sound simple, but it can be very effective. Just vake yourself away from the situation, or find some time to be on your own for a few minutes, and just try some regualr breathign exercises. Take deep breaths and try and clear your mind in the process. This will help you to calm a busy mind and start to see a little more clearer. It might not necessarily banish the feelings entirely, but you will start to feel more logical and be more realistic when you have stepped away for a few minutes. 

Head out for a walk 

Another thing that can be super effective is to head out for a walk. There is something about the general activity, the fresh air and being closer to nature that can help you to think clearer. When you start to feel mum guilt you can feel like your mind is working over time as you start to try and justify the feelings. It can feel too much. But just heading out for a walk and being closer to nature can help you to feel more at ease. You mind becomes clearer and you can start to rationalise the situation, rather than feeling so negatiave about it. 

Text a friend or make a phone call 

If you want to feel better then one great way to do is to text a friend or call someone. Communication is so key when you are a mum and talking about your feelings honestly can help you feel better. A friend who understands your situation and how they feel can help you to see clearer and feel better about yourself. A friend who is also a parent will know exactly what to say to help you feel more positive. 

Address what is making you feel this way

Finally, if something specific has made you feel guilty address it. For example, if you ended up shouting at your children out of frustration in the morning then write them a little note apologising for when they get home from school. If you haven’t been happy with routines or behaviour then look at ways to make some changes. Sometimes addressing what is bothering us can help us to feel more in control and positive. 

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When it comes to your home one main focus you may have is to reduce the waste which in turn can save you some money. Waste is a big problem right now, and many households can struggle with the amount they throw away or get rid of. However, with a bit of focus and attention, you can reduce the waste in your home and save some extra money in the process. But what can you do? Here are some of the tips that could help you to reduce your waste and save more money. 

Focus on food waste

One of the big areas of waste in any household is food. It is a huge problem for many however with a few changes in habits you can start to reduce what you throw away and also in the process eat better and save money. For starters, meal planning can be a great way to reduce what you throw away. It means you have a list and only buy what you need. The next thing to consider is batch cooking. It will stop you from resorting to a takeaway if you are rushed one evening. Finally, make use of all your vegetables and best before items. Freeze what you can, cook up what is needed, and love your leftovers. 

Avoid single-use items like plastic bottles

Another thing that you could try is to avoid single-use plastic in your home. This means water bottles and other items that you might get in single-use plastics. Shop individually for the vegetables and fruit you need rather than having to buy pre-packed items that might go to waste. You could also try refill stores now for cereals, flours, and also other things like shampoo and washing up liquid. 

Collect rainwater 

Rainwater is one of those things that we have little control over the waste. But you can collect rainwater by putting a container in the garden. You can then use this for things such as watering your plants. 

Shop your home first 

Before buying anything why not shop your home first? This can work in so many different ways. For example, shopping your fridge can help you to create a meal out of leftovers and items that you might ordinarily throw away. It can also help you to avoid buying unnecessarily. Shopping your home can also work for things like clothes. Look at what you have rather than feeling the need to buy something new. 

Repair it instead of replacing it 

We can all be so quick to replace something if it is broken rather than repairing it. So why not try and repair it instead? This can work for furniture or any item in your home. If it isn’t fully repairable could the parts be used in another way? You could create a different piece of furniture simply by upcycling things or putting the furniture in a different room. Repairing things in your home can help you to avoid having to spend. 

Hopefully, these tips will help you to reduce waste and save more money. 

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