How Stress Is Making Me Bald At 31

Since having the toddler 3 years ago I’ve been shedding hair faster than a snake sheds its skin. Of course the doctor told me I was only losing the extra hair I’d gained during my pregnancy! He looked at me with a slight smile as I protested that actually my hair had began thinning during my pregnancy! Seriously, there were no luscious locks in need of shedding here! The look on his face said it all… He thought that I was overreacting… My panic, unjustified!

As a child, teenager and young woman in her early twenties, my hair was thick and healthy. During my later twenties and drawing closer to the big 30, my hair was struggling to keep up. Now as I write this, age 31, my hair is so thin you can just see my scalp. I have some noticeable patches to the front area of my head.

Another visit to the doctor almost 3 years following the first and my worse fears are confirmed… My hair is falling out! Why? I’m told its stress!

If I was going to lose eyebrows and lashes then it would have happened already… Well, I guess that’s something positive at least!

I’ve read about this happening to both children and adults, both men and women. Some people lose all their hair in a speedy fashion and sadly experience no regrowth. Others are more fortunate and the hair comes out at a much slower pace and new hair continues to grow, only at a far slower pace (looks thin but not noticeably bald). I kind of fall within the latter, only now I’m losing the hair faster than ever before and I suspect that the regrowth of my hair is much slower!

Annoyingly, I don’t over style my hair, I use heat defence spray when blow drying and despite owning GHDs straighteners I’m careful and don’t use them on a daily basis! Whenever I do straighten my hair I do well to protect it by opting for a good heat protector and intensive conditioning treatment. So… Why do I consider the above to be so annoying? Its simple… I’ve taken steps to avoid damaging my hair only to discover I’m literally forcing it from my scalp with the power of my mind alone. As I sit worrying about certain happenings in my life somehow its my hair (whats left of it) paying the price.

Yes… I’ve felt somewhat stressed, more so these past few months for sure. There are a lot of things happening in life right now, not only I, but my family as a whole have been dealing with a lot stuff of late. Its the type of stuff that makes you sick with worry and no matter what you do its one of those situations that are way beyond your control. Yes, this is stress at its worse, the type fuelled by worrisome thoughts that when combined with other everyday pressures, they become extremely explosive! The end result… A 31 year old women preparing to wig shop!

As some may expect, I went through the motions… Checked the mirror every 20 minutes as so to ensure their was still hair on my head, brushed my thinning hair ever so gently and lastly… I used all the “miracle” hair treatments, the ones promising hair like that of Cheryl Coles.

But no more! I’m now just getting on with things! After all worrying about something that is caused by stress isn’t going to get me anywhere now is it? I’ve decided that I’m going to have fun with what hair is left on my head, starting with colouring it pink… Yes pink! I’m using a less harmful colour treatment and may even throw in a little blue if I’m feeling adventurous. Why? You might ask? Well… Why not?

I’ve come to realise that in life there are much more pressing issues then that of my fading hairline. By adapting this attitude I could also be doing my hair some good. However do I expect to correct an issue caused by stress if I’m stressing even more as a result?

Its all about the inner issues and its them that I’m concentrating on banishing. We as parents, human beings even, will always be stressing about something! I’ve just got to learn to let it out and deal with things in a more productive way, rather then letting it go to my head… Literally!

Homemade Vintage Christmas Gifts

Christmas is a really expensive time. There are so many gifts to buy which adds up to a considerable amount of money.

However, Not everything has to cost the earth. We Can actually give really special gifts In a cost-effective way.

It’s all about being creative and using your resources. Plus homemade gifts can be much more special. Its shows that you put thought into your gift and that means more than the price tag.

Here we have a simple upcycle gift that’s perfect for the lady who loves everything vintage and shabby chic.

Vintage inspired Jewellery stand made with vintage Queen Ann Tea set

Tea set brought from Auction as part of a huge box full of china for £3

First choose a selection of vintage style saucers and side plates these must descend in size (around 3 is good) you will also need a tea cup and 2 Miniature Glasses for example… Sherry glasses.

Other items you will need is a glue brush and some good strong Adhesive (I’m using Mosaic adhesive).

Make sure all your saucers, glasses and tea cup are clean. Also be sure to check your chosen china isn’t some vintage Antique find that’s worth a small fortune.

Right now to assemble your jewellery stand.

Step one… Start with the largest of your 3 plates and chose a glass. Stand your glass upside down and glue around the the bottom of your glass. Now carefully place your saucer/plate decorated side down, on top of the base of the glass being sure to place the base in the centre.

Be patient and hold firmly for a few minutes.

Wipe of any excess glue that may have come out from the sides of your glass onto your saucer.

Step two… Once you feel the plate is now strong enough stand up the right way so it looks as though the glass is just stood in the centre of your side plate. Now very carefully glue around the glasses rim and place your second plate that is smaller than your first on top of the glass. This time you are gluing the glass to the centre base of the plate. Again hold firmly and wipe of any excess glue.

Step 3… Once your plate is strong enough take your second glass and add the glue to the rim of the glass. Now place onto the centre of your plate. This can only be stuck to the decorated side of your plate. Hold and wipe of excess glue.

Step 4… Now glue the rim of the same glass and place the base of your smallest saucer on top.

Step 5… Lastly glue the base of your chosen tea cup and place it on top of your plates decorated side.

To finish add a pretty vintage gift tag tired with twine and dangle from the teacups handle.

Finished!

This blog post is an entry into the Tots100/Experience Days Christmas Craft Competition”

Words Written By Me

Wow… What an incredible week its been.

First off I discover I’m one of 10 finalist for the Savoo “Smartest Shopper Competition” then I go on to be interviewed by four great judges in London.

The competition has a great prize attached. The prize money is generous but you are also given the opportunity to write a “Money Saving Blog” with support from Savoo.

Did I feel incredibly shocked yet incredibly excited about getting this far in the competition? God, Yes…

No matter how far I get in any sort of writing related awards or competitions I still always find that need to pinch myself and pinch myself hard.

Why? Well, there are a few reasons for this but there is one that stands out particularly!

I could say that blogging has opened many doors for me, given me something to tell the grand children (in the FAR away future) but I won’t… Instead I will say how Writing has opened such doors for me instead.

Yes, without the blog how could I do the things I’m doing? But its what goes on the blog that should be noted, after all… What’s a blog without its content.

I wrote a post a while back that spoke about my writing and the reasons why I’d never imagined myself doing what I’m doing today. You see, writing was never my thing (just read this), if anything expressing myself through written content was something I struggled with and therefore disliked immensely! I remember my English teacher telling my mother how I had this amazingly creative mind that I was just wasting by not using it to reach my full potential! Once she started that if I could just put down on paper that creative vocabulary of mine, then we could sell books. I knew even at 12 that this was sarcasm. I’d been a bit of a diva and spoken back to the teacher who was simply not impressed with what I had to say (I had detention for weeks to follow). However, she was always impressed by whatever writing I’d reluctantly produce and she did think that by continuing to write I’d open up a whole new inner passion that I never knew I had.

“Blah blah blah…” I’d think to myself as I impatiently tapped my finger nails on the desk while yawning in an exaggerated manner. Teachers were never right, not by this girls knowledge anyway! I actually remember being sat thinking “Oh stop banging on about it miss… Its Not gonna happen!”

I often sit wondering what she would say if she see me now?

I’m not claiming I’m the best writer! I never read the stuff I’ve written and think to myself wow girl… You sound amazing, go write for a living!… Though I did actually make myself cry once when reading a post id written some months after I’d first published it! My point being, I’m always immensely humbled when I receive an email from a reader complimenting my writing style. I am used to getting emails from readers claiming that I’m an inspiration for sharing my life as a parent to a child with Aspergers and sen. I’d also get those thanking me when I would help them access educational services or advise them on the education laws surrounding their child’s special educational needs. And although i’m just about getting to grips with such words, its those emails and comments that claim my writing to be anything other than bog standard that leave me shocked yet amazed.

If you had asked me as a small primary child or even a raging mad hormone infused teen, if I’d ever see myself writing in the future, and more to the point… actually enjoying it , you can be bet your house on it that I’d quickly respond with with a swift “NO” followed by a burst of giggles (the type that implies you must be insane to even ask).

What I’ve leant is… Miss Whitehead, you were right! Yes, I love to write, I do express my feelings so much better on paper, and if I could chose to do anything during my “Me Time” I’d do exactly what I’m doing now… I’d write!

Did I want to grow up and find myself writing a blog? No!

Did I ever think I’d see any of my writing published in print? No!

Did I ever dream I’d be nominated for any type of blogging awards? No!

Did I ever once think Id go on to collect a Mad blog award (inspirational) in the name of my blog “A boy with Aspergers” for not one but two consecutive years? Whatever… This one is followed by that Swift burst of giggles that again imply your craziness.

Did I ever imagine that people would read about my little self and that blog of mine in the papers? Ha-Ha-Ha… Joker!

I’ve learnt that by combining my passions with words and sharing them through written material in whatever format I choose, I’m able to gain something back that is incredibly rewarding! That something is the knowledge that by doing something I love I’m providing others with something they relate too, laugh at, learn from, take inspiration from or simply just enjoy!

That is something wonderful… And Its something I’m not planning on stopping… Not for a very long time.

So, whether I’m blogging about the ups and downs of parenting a child on the autism spectrum, what I’m wearing, how to make your own face mask, sharing tips on how to get the most out of eBay or simply where to get the best shoes for the littlest price, it doesn’t matter… Why?

Because each would mean nothing without the passion I hold for the things I believe in, the things I enjoy and finally the desire to translate them into words, words written by me.

Every time something amazing comes from something I’ve typed on my Mac… I go through these same motions!

Its these motions that have inspired me to blog today… Who knows what tomorrow may bring.

Save Your Pennies This Half Term

Can you believe it? The next school half term is already upon us!

Its my experience that half term can lead to expense, the type we parents just cannot afford. This post offers some inexpensive ideas designed to help you keep the kids happy this coming Half Term.

Firstly, be creative! Creativity cost nothing, yet it comes in endless supply. Think up some fun and engaging activities for inside the home. Get the children making Halloween decorations then together decorate the house in your spooky creations. You can bake cupcakes, even the none baking parent can pick up a packet of cheap cake mix at their local supermarket. There are endless things you can do to keep the kids happy without leaving the house. Board games and craft projects are just a handful.

If the thought of staying indoors drives you mad, head to your local park to collect acorns, pine cones and conkers. All can be found on the ground this time of the year and each will provide hours of crafty fun. Why not keep yourself and the kids active with a game of football or for those with dogs, take a nice stroll along the green chain walk. Bike & scooter rides in the woods have always been a favourite with my children.

Always check your local papers for events taking place in your local area. Most Local authorities lay on free or cheap family activities during school breaks.

Those living in the city can visit one of the many city farms. These are usually really inexpensive and in many cases completely free to visit. They also offer numerous activities specially programmed for the holidays.

Lastly, entertain the kids and have a good old sort out at the same time? Get the kids sorting out all the things they no longer need, clothes, toys etc… With the Incentive that they can sell the items at a local bootfair. My kids love doing bootfairs, especially when selling their own things as they get to earn some money. Most bootfairs run all year round and only charge a small fee to sell. So, not only are you entertaining the kids in an inexpensive way, but you may also earn a little cash too… Bonus!

Little Miss Fashion Designer

Well, it would seem that my daughter Alice-Sara fancies herself as a bit of a fashion designer.

When I was asked if any of the children would like to create their own T-shirt design Alice-Sara was first in line.

Yes, I had a vision of a somewhat messy home, what with fabric paint normally being the way forward. I couldn’t have been more wrong. All that was required was for Alice-Sara to draw her design on paper in which she coloured in felt tip pens as she normally would.

I couldn’t believe how very simple this whole design process was turning out to be! Having simply drawn her design on paper this was then scanned onto the computer and clothes2order done all the hard work so we didn’t have to!

Alice-Sara drew a really bold funky picture of what I’m told is a drawing of myself (seriously… I don’t wear that much lipstick in the flesh).

Clothes2order offer a huge choice of customisable products from great brands. We opted for a plain white T-Shirt in a size 9-10. This was from the well known brand fruit of the loom.

The company stock T-shirts in varying sizes from children’s tees to adults. Because Clothes2order have this huge range on site meaning nothing has to be ordered in and the fact all printing is done on site, makes the service an astoundingly quick one when it comes to dispatch & delivery times.

All customising can be done on line, this includes anything from uploading your design to entering text for added slogans or names. Whether ordering just one t-shirt or 100 (yes, there is no minimum order) this is done in minutes.

Certain product lines are available to order on express delivery but all products are dispatched in record time.

I absolutely love the finished t-shirt bearing my daughters creative drawing of her mummy caked in lipstick… In fact we all thought it was brilliant and now Little man has expressed an interest to possible try his hand at designing one too.

Designing you’re very own t-shirt Is a fab way of keeping the kids entertained and making their art
Into something that bit more special. I would recommend it to anyone.

This is a review post, though opinions are honest and that of my own. We received the t-shirt free of charge but was under no obligation to have to write about it.

Shabby chic with a modern twist

I love feature walls & when having a nose around on Pinterest I came across this beauty of a pin.

I instantly fell in love with the stunning feature wall featured in the pin and had visions of it stuck on my daughters bedroom wall.

Just a few days later I was on twitter when I came across a tweet from @toddlerlandeu, they were looking for parent bloggers to review some of there room decals. I volunteered my services and was delighted when Toddlerland invited me to check out their site and select a Decor to review.

Admittedly, I was still lusting after my Pinterest find and anything offered would be hard to match up to this. Well, can you just imagine my delight when discovering that very same Decor featured on their online store.

Alice-Sara like me loves the design as I knew she would, now I couldn’t wait to get my hands on it and get it up on her wall.

However, despite a fast and excellent delivery service it was some time before we could get this up. Firstly we were plastering which turned into a disaster (long story). Then we had a caved in ceiling to deal with. Everything just seemed to be happening one after the other and each problem felt like it took a life time to repair!

Eventually we had the green light and started the project while Alice-Sara was in school.

Roomates decals are removable, they can be repositioned and reused (this was handy as admittedly I made a few bum errors). Nonetheless, these are not in any way difficult to apply. Simply peel the decals from the backing paper then stick to any smooth surface. Seriously it is that simple!

Roomates have a special adhesive which is strong enough to hold and keep the decor stuck to the wall but also delicate enough to allow endless repositioning without damaging any of your paintwork (note, it is advised that newly painted surfaces are left for a period of at least two weeks before applying decals)!

Our chosen design came with instructions which were numbered making the process very visual and therefore easy to follow.

ToddlerLand.eu have a fantastic range of designs suitable for a vast spectrum of ages and design needs. They even have a glow-in-the-dark Decor range, how cool is that? Great for a sensory room!

I love Roomates Peel and Stick Mega Pack – Scroll Tree, which covered a whole wall in my daughters room with ease. This made it a sophisticated yet fun focal point to the room. Alice-Sara doesn’t have the largest bedroom out the three in the house but she certainly does have the coolest feature wall!

The scroll tree design is really very pretty, what with it’s curly brunches and pretty flowers, it really is quite stunning. The birds give it a funky edge and the owls really are quite cute!

We are still not 100% finished on the whole make over front, we’re aiming for pretty shabby chic with a modern twist.

The Scroll Tree Decor has definitely contributed to creating this, it’s beautiful!

Roomates Peel and Stick Mega Pack Scroll Tree Decor is priced at €44.99 which is totally reasonable for what you get.

You can check out the Scroll Tree and many more designs over on the Toddlerland.eu online store.

This is a review post. All opinions are honest and that of my own. I was not paid to write this review but was sent a sample of the product in order to share my opinions.

Win a bundle of ‘Natural and Clean’ goodies

As many may know, I love hosting a competition, its great to be able to give away a few prizes to my readers! Really it’s a great feeling being able to alert your reader and make their day! I almost love it as much as when I receive that special notification alerting me to a competition I’ve ran (yes, comping is getting a bit addictive but that’s another post altogether)!

So, as you may have guessed already, this is one of them awesome competition post, bringing you the chance to get your paws on some freebies.

Today’s competition is brought to you by “Natural and Clean” a fantastic brand selling ecological innovative household, travel and pet cleaning essentials. We did a review for the brand back in 2011 (Click Here to read) in-which we were bowled over by the magical Whoops a daisy! This stuff is amazing, a powder consisting of super absorbent crystals that when sprinkled directly onto spillage’s, the crystals expand & magically absorb the liquid converting it into a jelly like substance so it can then be easily removed along with any traces of odour with the use of a dust pan and brush. Not only does this save your carpets and upholstery’s from staining but is great for them difficult clean up jobs like urine caused by the little potty training tots or in my case a naughty little kitten. There were loads more great products in the range however, this is one I swear by.

Well, those lovely lot at Natural and Clean, have donated a great selection of there products, including my favourite “Whoops a daisy” as a competition prize.

This isn’t just one or two products we’re talking about… “Oh no”! Natural and Clean are giving you lovely lot, the chance to bag yourselves a huge bundle of goodies, consisting of 9 Natural and Clean products, worth the tidy sum of £45.99

Here’s what you can win, along with a few images of some of these earth friendly products.

Whoops-a-daisy (for every day spills) £4.99

The essential travel kit (handy to have in the car or under the buggy) £10.99

Nappy and standard bin deodoriser (for fresh smelling bins) £3.39

Spot remover spray £3.43

Spot remover wipes (useful for spills on carpets and soft furnishings) £3.43

Carpet and fabric deodoriser £3.43

Baby clean-up kit (a handy travel kit) £10.99

Dry Carpet Cleaner (500g) £5.19

Foaming Carpet Cleaner £3.58
For more information on all items Click Here to be directed to the Natural and Clean Website

One winner will bag themselves this huge bundle of essentials

Here’s how to enter

Compulsory action
This entry must be completed before any of the below extra entries will be accepted!

Leave a comment telling me a great cleaning tip (email address or twitter contact left with all comments please)

Extra Entries
You can do however many you like, though for each action taken a separate comment must be left (those that are not, sadly won’t be valid)!

+1: Follow Clean and Natural on Twitter

+1: Tweet, “I want to win a cleaning bundle from @naturalandclean via @clairelouise82 & ensuring you add the URL for this post!

+1: You, will receive one extra entry for using any of the share buttons within this post (separate comment for each please)!

+1 Subscribe via “Feedburner” to my blog

+2 visit and subscribe to my sister blog “Mummy of many talents” you may just love it (no obligation to remain once competition closed, though I hope you might) 🙂

+1 Follow me on twitter @clairelouise82

Myself and Natural and Clean would love you to pop over and check out the Natural and Clean Facebook page. You don’t have to and it is not an entry into the competition but it would be lovely of you guys to check them out! (Plus you will never miss a fab comp or great promotion) and we wouldn’t want that would we.

Competition will close on the 6th March 2012
Winner will be randomly drawn and announced soon after.

T&C

UK residents only please, competition will close on the 6th March at 5 pm, prize will be sent directly from prize provider “Natural and Clean” (Note: there is no cash alternative to this prize) All rules must be followed, those entries that have not abided by this rules will not be counted into the draw, regardless if the comment was approved or otherwise. Winners will be given 72 hours following the winning notification to contact me via the email located in the sidebar or that of the about page. Postal address will need to be forwarded to the brands PR and winners name will be published here on the blog. Those who do not leave an efficient contact (email, twitter , etc.. Please no Facebook contacts) may lose the prize which will be randomly redrawn.

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