• Laundry Cleaning Services - Work-Life Balance

    Simplify Your Life: How Laundry Cleaning Services Can Improve Work-Life Balance for Parents

    Balancing work, family, and personal time is no easy feat for busy parents. Between rushing to work meetings, attending school activities, and managing the never-ending demands of parenting, there never seems to be enough hours in the day. Add to this the daunting chore of laundry—sorting, washing, drying, folding—and it’s no surprise that stress levels can soar.

    Enter We Wash 24 laundry cleaning service, the ultimate time-saver for overwhelmed families. This professional service takes the burden of laundry off your plate, giving you back precious time to focus on what matters most. Curious about how this simple switch can transform your daily life? Keep reading—we’re here to break it all down.

    The Benefits of Laundry Cleaning Services

    If you’ve never considered outsourcing your laundry, here’s why it’s a game-changer for time-strapped parents trying to juggle it all.

    Laundry Cleaning Services Can Improve Work-Life Balance

    More Free Time

    Think about how many hours you spend on laundry each week. Experts estimate the average family spends 6-8 hours per week just washing, drying, folding, and organizing clothes. Imagine reclaiming those hours to spend more quality time with your kids, focus on self-care, or even relax for a moment with your favorite book.

    By handing over your laundry to professionals, you instantly free up your schedule for higher-priority or simply more enjoyable activities.

    Example

    Instead of spending your Saturday folding an Everest-sized pile of clothes, you could be at the park with your children, making memories they’ll cherish forever.

    Reduced Stress

    Here’s the thing about laundry—it’s relentless. No matter how often you tackle it, another load always seems to appear the moment you think you’re done. This constant cycle can be overwhelming, especially when paired with the already packed calendar of a working parent.

    Laundry cleaning services help eliminate this repetitive stressor. Having someone else take care of your laundry means fewer items on your mental to-do list, which means a calmer, more relaxed mindset.

    Data Point

    A study by Harvard Business Review found that people who outsource time-consuming tasks report greater happiness and lower stress levels compared to those who don’t.

    Consistent Cleanliness

    Tired of dealing with stubborn stains that just won’t budge, or laundry that doesn’t feel truly fresh? Laundry professionals are experts at what they do. With high-quality detergents, specialized stain removers, and industrial-grade machines, they ensure your clothes are spotless and smell amazing.

    Plus, their commitment to consistent care means you’ll never be stuck scrambling for clean clothes again. Whether it’s your toddler’s ketchup-stained shirt or your delicate office blouse, you can trust they’ll handle it with care.

    Laundry Cleaning Services Can Improve Work-Life Balance

    How Laundry Services Work

    Not sure how a laundry service operates? It’s simpler than you think! Most professional laundry services follow these straightforward steps, making the process hassle-free from start to finish.

    1. Pickup: Schedule a pickup via their website or app at a time that works best for you.
    2. Sorting & Cleaning: Your laundry is separated, treated for stains, and washed according to fabric type.
    3. Drying & Folding: Clothes are neatly dried, folded, and packaged to ensure they’re ready to wear when dropped off.
    4. Delivery: Your freshly cleaned clothes are delivered right back to your door, often within 24-48 hours!

    With some services, you can even specify preferences like detergent type or folding methods, ensuring everything is done exactly as you like it.

    Finding the Right Laundry Service

    Not all laundry services are created equal, so how do you choose the one that’s best for your family? Keep these factors in mind as you search:

    • Reputation: Look for reviews and testimonials from other customers—particularly busy parents like yourself.
    • Convenience: Consider services that offer flexible pickup and delivery times, as well as an intuitive app or website for scheduling.
    • Eco-Friendliness: Many providers now use environmentally friendly detergents and energy-efficient machines, which is a bonus if sustainability is important to your family.
    • Customizable Options: Need your clothes folded a specific way? Prefer hypoallergenic detergent? Choose a service that can accommodate special requests.
    Laundry Cleaning Services Can Improve Work-Life Balance

    Cost vs. Value

    One of the biggest questions parents have about laundry services is whether they’re worth the cost. While it does require a financial investment, keep in mind the immense value you’re getting in return.

    Here’s how it breaks down:

    • Time is Money: Consider the hours you’ll save by not doing laundry—hours you can spend working, relaxing, or connecting with loved ones.
    • Improved Quality: Professional cleaning often leads to garments lasting longer, saving you money on replacements.
    • Decreased Stress: How do you put a price on peace of mind?

    Many services also offer subscription plans or family bundles, which can help reduce the overall cost. At the end of the day, most parents agree the time and sanity saved are well worth the price.

    Reclaim Your Time and Sanity with Laundry Services

    Parenting is hard enough without the mountain of laundry constantly looming in the background. By enlisting the help of a laundry cleaning service, you can free up time, reduce daily stress, and enjoy consistently clean clothes—all without lifting a finger.

    It’s a small change that can have a big impact on your life and your family’s well-being. The question isn’t “Why should you try it?” but rather, “Why haven’t you tried it sooner?”

    Take back your time and focus on what truly matters—whether that’s enjoying dinner with your family, pursuing a passion project, or finally getting a full night’s sleep. Look into professional laundry services in your area today and experience the difference for yourself.

    Related – Work-Life Balance for Parents: How to Manage Career and Family Life

  • Family Law - Parenting Advice

    Parental Rights in the USA: A Complete Guide to Family Law for Parents

    Introduction

    Understanding parental rights in the USA is essential for ensuring the well-being of children and protecting family dynamics. Family law varies by state, but there are fundamental rights and responsibilities that apply nationwide. This guide will provide an overview of legal rights, custody arrangements, child support, and how to navigate legal challenges as a parent.

    Understanding Parental Rights in the USA

    Parental rights are legal provisions that allow parents to make decisions regarding their child’s upbringing, education, healthcare, and overall well-being. These rights are protected under federal and state laws but may be subject to court intervention in certain circumstances.

    1. Legal and Physical Custody

    Parental custody is divided into two main categories:

    • Legal Custody: The right to make major decisions about a child’s education, healthcare, and religious upbringing.
    • Physical Custody: Determines where the child lives and who is responsible for day-to-day care.

    Types of Custody Arrangements

    • Sole Custody: One parent has full legal and/or physical custody.
    • Joint Custody: Both parents share legal and/or physical custody.
    • Split Custody: Each parent has custody of one or more children.

    Courts consider the child’s best interests when determining custody arrangements, evaluating factors such as the parent’s stability, financial status, and the child’s emotional needs.

    Parental Responsibilities and Child Support

    Along with rights, parents also have legal responsibilities, including financial support and ensuring their child’s education and healthcare needs are met.

    2. Child Support Laws

    Child support is a financial obligation required by law to ensure a child’s well-being. Payments are determined based on factors like income, number of children, and the custody arrangement. Courts enforce child support to prevent financial neglect.

    Key Considerations in Child Support:

    • Non-custodial parents typically provide payments to custodial parents.
    • Courts may modify payments based on financial changes.
    • Failure to pay can result in legal penalties.

    Parental Rights in Education and Healthcare

    3. Educational Rights

    Parents have the right to make educational decisions for their children, including:

    • Choosing Public, Private, or Homeschooling Options
    • Accessing School Records
    • Participating in Special Education Programs (IDEA Act protects children with disabilities)

    4. Healthcare Decisions

    Parents also have the legal authority to make medical decisions, including:

    • Consent for surgeries or medical treatments
    • Access to medical records
    • Choosing health insurance plans

    However, in cases of medical neglect, courts may intervene to ensure a child’s well-being.

    Termination of Parental Rights

    Parental rights can be legally terminated in extreme cases, such as:

    • Child abuse or neglect
    • Long-term absence or abandonment
    • Failure to provide financial or emotional support

    Termination can occur voluntarily or through court action to protect the child’s safety.

    Parental Rights in the USA

    Navigating Family Law Challenges

    5. Parental Rights in Divorce Cases

    During a divorce, parental rights can become a major point of dispute. Courts prioritize the best interests of the child, considering factors such as stability, financial support, and emotional well-being. Mediation is often encouraged to create parenting plans that work for both parties.

    6. Fathers’ Rights and Mothers’ Rights

    Historically, mothers were more likely to receive primary custody, but modern family law aims for gender equality. Fathers’ rights movements have helped emphasize equal parenting roles, allowing fathers more involvement in their children’s lives post-divorce.

    7. Grandparents’ Rights

    In some states, grandparents can petition for visitation rights, especially if they play a significant role in the child’s life. However, parental rights generally take precedence unless the court finds it necessary to intervene.

    Importance of Nutrition for Growing Children

    While ensuring legal protection for children is vital, their physical and mental well-being is equally important. Providing balanced meals and proper nutrition is essential for growth and development. Read more about simple nutrition tips for growing children to help maintain your child’s health.

    Conclusion

    Understanding parental rights in the USA empowers parents to make informed decisions regarding their child’s well-being. Whether dealing with custody disputes, child support, or legal issues, knowing your rights and responsibilities ensures a secure future for your children. Staying informed about family law and parenting best practices will help create a stable and supportive environment for every child.

  • Child Health - Parenting Advice

    Healthy Eating for Kids: Simple Nutrition Tips for Growing Children

    Introduction

    Providing children with a nutritious diet is essential for their overall growth, development, and well-being. Establishing healthy eating habits early in life can help prevent nutritional deficiencies, obesity, and chronic diseases. This guide explores simple nutrition tips to help parents make informed choices about their child’s diet.

    The Importance of Nutrition for Growing Children

    A balanced diet provides the essential nutrients that children need for growth, brain development, and energy. Proper nutrition for kids supports strong bones, a robust immune system, and mental well-being.

    Key Nutrients Every Child Needs

    1. Proteins – Essential for muscle growth and repair (e.g., lean meats, eggs, beans, dairy products).
    2. Carbohydrates – Provide energy (e.g., whole grains, fruits, and vegetables).
    3. Fats – Support brain function and energy storage (e.g., avocados, nuts, and fish).
    4. Vitamins and Minerals – Help with various body functions (e.g., vitamin D for bone health, iron for blood production).
    5. Fiber – Aids digestion and promotes gut health (e.g., whole grains, fruits, vegetables).
    6. Water – Keeps the body hydrated and helps regulate temperature and digestion.
    Nutrition Tips for Growing Children

    Simple Nutrition Tips for Parents

    1. Serve a Variety of Foods

    Offering different types of foods ensures that children receive essential nutrients. A colorful plate with fruits, vegetables, proteins, and whole grains makes meals both nutritious and appealing.

    2. Limit Processed and Sugary Foods

    Highly processed foods and sugary snacks can lead to poor nutrition and health problems. Instead, opt for fresh, whole foods that provide essential vitamins and minerals.

    3. Encourage Healthy Snacking

    Nutritious snacks can keep children energized throughout the day. Some healthy snack ideas include:

    • Apple slices with peanut butter
    • Greek yogurt with berries
    • Whole-grain crackers with cheese
    • Carrot and cucumber sticks with hummus

    4. Make Mealtime Enjoyable

    Creating a positive eating environment helps children develop a healthy relationship with food. Avoid forcing them to eat and instead encourage them to try different foods at their own pace.

    5. Hydration is Key

    Water should be the primary beverage for children. Avoid sugary sodas and excessive fruit juices, as they can contribute to weight gain and tooth decay.

    6. Involve Kids in Meal Preparation

    Letting children participate in cooking can help them develop an interest in healthy eating habits. They are more likely to eat meals they helped prepare.

    7. Set a Good Example

    Children learn by observing their parents. Eating nutritious foods and maintaining a balanced diet yourself can encourage kids to do the same.

    Nutrition Tips for Growing Children

    Overcoming Common Nutrition Challenges

    Picky Eaters

    Many children go through phases of being picky eaters. To encourage a balanced diet:

    • Introduce new foods gradually
    • Pair unfamiliar foods with familiar favorites
    • Get creative with food presentation

    Food Allergies and Sensitivities

    For children with food allergies, it’s crucial to identify safe and nutritious alternatives. Consulting a pediatrician or nutritionist can help create a balanced diet plan.

    Busy Family Schedules

    Balancing work and family life can make healthy eating for kids challenging. Preparing quick and healthy meals ahead of time can make it easier. Parents struggling with work-life balance can find more tips in our article work-life balance for parents.

    The Role of Physical Activity

    A nutritious diet goes hand in hand with regular physical activity. Encourage children to:

    • Play outside
    • Participate in sports
    • Limit screen time and engage in active play

    Conclusion

    Ensuring healthy eating habits for kids is one of the most important things parents can do for their child’s well-being. By providing a balanced diet, encouraging healthy snacking, and setting a positive example, parents can foster lifelong healthy habits.

    Want to learn more about balancing parenting responsibilities? Check out our article on Work-Life Balance for Parents for additional tips.

  • Parenting Advice - Work-Life Balance

    Work-Life Balance for Parents: How to Manage Career and Family Life

    Balancing work and family life can be overwhelming for parents. With professional responsibilities and household duties, finding time for personal well-being often becomes challenging. However, achieving a healthy work-life balance is essential for maintaining strong family relationships and ensuring a fulfilling career. This guide provides actionable tips to help parents manage career and family life effectively.

    Understanding Work-Life Balance

    Work-life balance refers to the ability to distribute time and energy between work obligations and personal life without compromising either. A well-balanced lifestyle can improve mental health, enhance productivity, and strengthen family bonds.

    The Challenges Parents Face in Work-Life Balance

    1. Time Management Issues

    Parents often struggle to allocate enough time for work, children, and household chores. Long work hours and unexpected job demands can make it difficult to maintain a balanced routine.

    Work-Life Balance for Parents

    2. Parental Guilt

    Many parents experience guilt for not spending enough time with their children. This guilt can lead to stress and dissatisfaction, making it essential to create a realistic schedule that accommodates both work and family.

    3. Lack of Flexibility

    Traditional work environments may not provide the flexibility parents need to attend school events, doctor visits, or family emergencies. This lack of flexibility can create additional pressure.

    Practical Strategies to Achieve Work-Life Balance

    1. Set Clear Priorities

    Identify what matters most in both professional and personal life. Create a priority list that ensures essential family activities and critical work deadlines are managed efficiently.

    2. Establish a Realistic Schedule

    A structured daily routine can help balance responsibilities. Use planners or digital scheduling tools to allocate specific time slots for work, family, and self-care.

    3. Leverage Workplace Flexibility

    Many companies now offer remote work options, flexible schedules, or compressed workweeks. Parents should explore these options to create a work schedule that accommodates family needs.

    4. Set Boundaries Between Work and Family Time

    Avoid taking work home whenever possible. Designate a separate workspace at home and establish clear work hours. Once work hours end, focus entirely on family time without distractions.

    5. Prioritize Quality Family Time

    Engaging in meaningful family activities strengthens bonds and reduces stress. Plan regular family outings, game nights, or shared meals to maintain strong connections.

    Work-Life Balance for Parents

    6. Utilize Support Systems

    Seek help from family, friends, or childcare services. Delegating tasks like grocery shopping, cleaning, or babysitting can relieve some of the burdens parents face.

    7. Encourage Open Communication

    Discuss work commitments with family members and employers. A transparent conversation about work-life balance can lead to better understanding and support from both parties.

    8. Self-Care is Essential

    Parental responsibilities can be exhausting, making self-care crucial. Regular exercise, healthy eating, and adequate rest contribute to overall well-being, enabling parents to manage responsibilities more effectively.

    The Impact of Work-Life Balance on Child Custody Cases

    For parents dealing with child custody in the USA, demonstrating a stable work-life balance can be beneficial. Courts consider the parent’s ability to provide a nurturing environment for their children. Maintaining a structured routine and ensuring work obligations do not interfere with parental duties can improve custody outcomes. Learn more about child custody laws in the USA.

    The Role of Employers in Work-Life Balance

    Employers play a crucial role in promoting work-life balance. Companies that implement family-friendly policies, such as parental leave, childcare support, and mental health programs, create a more supportive environment for working parents.

    Conclusion

    Achieving work-life balance requires careful planning, commitment, and support from both employers and family members. Parents who prioritize their time effectively, set boundaries, and focus on self-care can successfully manage career and family responsibilities without overwhelming stress. By following these strategies, parents can create a healthier and more fulfilling life for themselves and their children.

    Related: How Laundry Cleaning Services Can Improve Work-Life Balance for Parents

  • Family Law - Parenting Advice

    Child Custody in the USA: What Every Parent Needs to Know

    Child custody is one of the most critical issues parents face during separation or divorce. Understanding child custody laws in the USA is essential for ensuring the well-being of children and protecting parental rights. Each state has specific custody laws, but all decisions prioritize the best interests of the child.

    This guide explores different types of child custody, factors influencing custody decisions, the legal process, and how to modify custody orders.

    Understanding Child Custody Laws in the USA

    Legal Definition of Child Custody

    In the United States, child custody refers to the legal and practical relationship between a parent and child, including decision-making authority and physical care. Custody arrangements can be determined through mutual agreement or by a family court judge.

    Child Custody in the USA

    Types of Child Custody

    There are two main categories of child custody in the USA:

    1. Legal Custody – The right to make major decisions about the child’s upbringing, including education, healthcare, and religious beliefs.
    2. Physical Custody – Determines where the child lives and which parent provides daily care.

    Custody can be awarded in different forms:

    Sole Custody vs. Joint Custody

    • Sole Custody – One parent has full legal and/or physical custody, while the other may have visitation rights.
    • Joint Custody – Both parents share decision-making responsibilities and/or physical custody.

    Joint custody is generally preferred by courts, as it allows children to maintain a relationship with both parents.

    How Child Custody Decisions Are Made

    The Best Interests of the Child Standard

    In all custody cases, the best interests of the child are the primary consideration. Family courts assess several factors, including:

    • The child’s age, emotional needs, and preferences (if mature enough)
    • Each parent’s ability to provide a stable and nurturing environment
    • The child’s current living arrangement and relationship with each parent
    • Any history of domestic violence, neglect, or substance abuse
    • Each parent’s willingness to support the child’s relationship with the other parent

    Courts may order joint custody unless there is evidence that one parent is unfit or poses a risk to the child’s well-being.

    Parental Rights in Custody Cases

    Parents have the right to seek custody, request modifications, and maintain a relationship with their child. In cases where parental rights are challenged, understanding parental rights in the USA is crucial to ensuring legal protection.

    The Child Custody Court Process

    Step 1: Filing for Custody

    Custody cases begin when one parent files a custody petition in the appropriate family court. This petition outlines the desired custody arrangement and any concerns regarding the child’s well-being.

    Step 2: Mediation and Negotiation

    Many states require parents to attempt mediation before proceeding to court. During mediation, a neutral third party helps parents reach a mutually beneficial agreement regarding custody and parenting time.

    Step 3: Court Hearings and Evaluations

    If parents cannot agree on custody terms, the case moves to court. A judge will consider evidence from both parents, social workers, and child psychologists before making a final decision.

    Step 4: Custody Order Issuance

    Once a custody decision is reached, the court issues a custody order, which legally defines each parent’s responsibilities and rights.

    Types of Custody Arrangements

    1. Joint Custody Arrangements

    When both parents share custody, several schedules may be implemented:

    • 50/50 Custody – The child spends equal time with both parents.
    • Alternating Weeks – The child lives with each parent on a weekly basis.
    • School-Year vs. Summer Custody – One parent has primary custody during the school year, while the other has extended summer custody.

    2. Sole Custody Arrangements

    If one parent is granted sole custody, the non-custodial parent may still receive visitation rights unless deemed unfit. Visitation may be:

    • Supervised Visitation – Required when concerns about child safety exist.
    • Unsupervised Visitation – Allowed if no safety concerns are present.
    Child Custody in the USA

    Child Custody Modifications

    Life circumstances change, and custody orders may need to be updated. Common reasons for modifying a custody order include:

    • Relocation of one parent to another city or state
    • Changes in work schedules affecting custody arrangements
    • Evidence of neglect, abuse, or significant changes in a parent’s lifestyle

    A formal request must be submitted to the court, and modifications will only be approved if they serve the child’s best interests.

    What Happens If a Parent Violates a Custody Order?

    Failing to follow a custody order can lead to legal consequences, including:

    • Contempt of court charges
    • Fines or jail time for repeated violations
    • Loss of custody or visitation rights

    If a parent refuses to comply, the other parent can request legal enforcement through the court system.

    How to Strengthen Your Child Custody Case

    1. Prioritize the Child’s Needs

    Demonstrating a willingness to prioritize your child’s emotional and physical well-being increases your chances of obtaining custody.

    2. Maintain a Strong Relationship with the Child

    Spending quality time, attending school events, and participating in daily activities show your commitment as a parent.

    3. Keep Detailed Records

    Maintaining a log of parenting schedules, communication, and child-related expenses can serve as valuable evidence in custody disputes.

    4. Cooperate with the Other Parent

    Courts favor parents who encourage a healthy co-parenting relationship. Avoid conflicts and demonstrate a willingness to work together.

    Legal Resources for Child Custody in the USA

    Parents seeking custody advice can consult:

    • Family law attorneys specializing in custody cases
    • State child custody guidelines available on government websites
    • Legal aid services for those who qualify for financial assistance

    Conclusion

    Navigating child custody in the USA can be challenging, but understanding the legal process is crucial. Courts focus on the best interests of the child, considering factors such as parental stability, emotional well-being, and living arrangements.

    Parents are encouraged to reach custody agreements through mediation when possible. However, in cases requiring court intervention, maintaining strong legal representation and prioritizing the child’s needs can lead to the best possible outcome.

    By staying informed, cooperating with the other parent, and following court orders, parents can create a supportive and loving environment for their children, even after separation or divorce.

  • General

    Share your Super Hero portrait with #KodakAvengers Linky

    Super Heroes always capture children’s imagination…and these days adults aren’t immune either. Join us for the #kodakavengers Linky Challenge – and you could win £500 or one of 3 Kodak Hero 7.1 All-in-One printers plus Marvel’s Avengers Assemble on DVD.

    The Linky celebrates the power of Super Heroes as well as the DVD and Blu-ray release of Marvel’s Avengers Assemble on 17th September, along with free printables for creating your own Super Hero adventure at home from Kodak.

    Taking part is easy

    Simply download and print some free Avengers Assemble templates from this link, and post a picture on your blog of your child or someone else in your family using these to strike their best Super Hero pose!

    Make sure you state that the post is an entry for the #kodakavengers Linky Challenge. You can also include the badge, shown here – grab the text from the box below it. Then post your link in the Linky below.

    Super Hero portrait

    Hurry! Entrants will receive a copy of Marvel’s Avengers Assemble on DVD while supplies last. The Linky closes at 5pm on 5 October 2012. All entrants are eligible to win £500, 1 of 3 printer packages including a Kodak Hero 7.1 printer and ink plus Marvel’s Avengers Assemble on DVD, worth more than £175!

    This Linky is sponsored by Kodak, which has created free Marvel’s Avengers Assemble printables you can print at home, including character masks, posters and party packs including invitations to create your own Avengers themed party! Plus with Kodak you can print as much as you like without worrying about the cost of ink. With the lowest total ink replacement costs in the UK you can replace all your inks for under £23*.

    Plus, we have three fabulous Avengers Ambassadors – Red Ted Art, Imagination Tree and The Alexander Residence – posting Super Hero printing craft ideas. Find out more about them.

  • General

    London Summit for Family Planning – Keep the conversation going!

    On Wednesday BritMums attended the London Summit for Family Planning, hosted by the UK Government and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.

    World leaders, activists, faith-based organisations, and the public and private sectors came together to support the right of women and girls to decide for themselves when and how many children to have. The goal? To give 120 million more girls and women in developing countries access to contraceptives.

    The Foundation reports that there are more than 220 million girls and women in developing countries who don’t want to get pregnant but do not have access to modern contraceptives. As a result, girls as young as 11 get pregnant. Their bodies are not mature enough to survive the pregnancy. Many die. Some are disfigured. Without contraceptives and the ability to control their lives, those that survive go on to have more children. Sometimes within months. We heard from one girl (she was 17) who said she was one of 10 children. More mouths to feed never rang more true.

    London Summit for Family Planning

    If we supply these girls and women with contraceptives (and surrounding education) it can lead to:

    • Fewer deaths in in women and newborn babies;
    • More girls completing their education, thus leading to more opportunities;
    • Healthier families and communities;
    • Reduced demand on social sector budgets.

    Sounds like a no-branier, right? It’s not.

    “Family planning” often gets mired in religious and cultural issues. My own mother in California, when I told her I was attending this summit, went silent on the phone. She told me family planning/contraceptives were not her favourite subject (she is a devout Catholic/Christian). I pointed out that girls in third world countries as young as her granddaughter were often forced into marriage, resulting in pregnancy, and that many died because their fragile bodies were not ready. Why should these young girls suffer? I asked. I could hear the church in her voice in return. They should practice natural methods. Erm, OK. What else can you say to your mother? *Head in hands*

    This is why I applaud Melinda Gates and the UK Government for taking the lead in this project. You can only imagine the long road they have traveled to get family planning on the world agenda. And what a result. In terms of financial commitments, The London Summit on Family Planning resulted in $2.6B more in funding.

    After a long, draining day , I asked the Gates Foundation what BritMums could do to help the cause. Keep the conversation going, they said. Don’t let it die.

    And so the last words from Melinda ring true (and women always get the last word).

    We have talked the talk. Now we need to walk the walk.

  • General

    BritMums dad blog round-up: cooking, coupons, C-sections and sex toys!

    There’s a foodie bent to this month’s selection of brilliant dad blogs, for which I offer no apologies.

    Three of my six are top bananas in the punny sense of the term, not just because their blogs are feasts for the eyes but because they are also inspirational.

    My top three not only share my passion for cooking (see my weekly Recipe Shed linky here) but they inspire me to raise my game.

    The other three are simply brilliant reads. Like all great bloggers, they vary the pace. I never know what’s going to drop into my subscription InBox – and I’m never disappointed.

    As I’ve said before, I could easily showcase a couple of dozen fantastic Dad Blogs each month, but I’m working on the principle of Less Is More.

    One Man and His Hob is relatively new on my radar – but, oh, what a discovery. The busy dad lives for food and showcases his efforts pretty much every day, whether it be a foodie find at a farm shop or a brilliant moreish meal with super-clear step-by-step pictures. I could pick out a load of his recipes for you, but I’ll direct you to his most recent and you can go off and explore yourself. Try Spinach and Ricotta Canneloni  or Homemade Mini-Scotch Eggs.

    Dan Toombs is not A curry guy, he is THE Curry Guy. His mission is to share as make as many homemade curries as possible – and then share the results with you. He writes his own recipes and I am here to testify that the results are quite sensational. I’ve picked out one that I cooked the other night: How to make British Indian Restaurant-style Lamb Methi.  The results were punchy, aromatic, authentic and delicious.

    dad blog

    Dad’s Cooking Tonight is a dad of five hungry kids and although he doesn’t always post about food, when he does, the results are inspiring and impressive. But this recent post – Cookbooks: Houston We Have a Problem  – tickled the chord it struck. He has 74 cookbooks and is wondering what to do with them. Perhaps build a playhouse for his kids? I have the same dilemma. I think I have around 100 cookbooks, but only ever seem to look at four or five.

    Bringing Up Charlie aka Tim Atkinson is one of the longest-serving and highest-ranking bloggers in the dad community – and a lovelier chap you couldn’t wish to find. As well as being a witty, super-informed, prolific and helpful dad of two girls, Tim is also an accomplished author, publishing both his own books and others’ for charity through his Dotterel Press. I was especially taken by this post – What’s Your Favourite Bedtime Story – this month, as we all have our opinions and favourites. What’s yours? (Mine’s Heston Blumenthal at Home, in case you’re interested – my kids don’t seem to be!)

    Dad-of-three DaddaCool writes a pretty cool blog, if he doesn’t mind me saying (I know he won’t – he told me so himself). And in this post he turns his analytical attentions to the obsession some people have of collecting discount coupons. He asks: ‘Is extreme couponing a manifestation of insanity?’ But the post that nearly took my eye out was ‘Warning: May contain references to sex toys.’ Clue: It DOES contain references to sex toys. You have been warned!

    I like a good yarn. I like a yarn that both entertains and informs. And Random Pearls of Wisdom ticks both those boxes. In this post – A Tale of Two C-Sections – he breathlessly describes how his two children arrived into the world, a story that is bound to chime with both dads and mums. A very wise and moving read indeed.

    More to read – Parental Rights in the USA: A Complete Guide to Family Law for Parents

  • General

    Wednesday: #McCainMums Twitter party!

    Join us Wednesday 21 March 13:00 to 14:00 for the #McCainMums Twitter party and tell us what you would do with £1,000! Wildest dreams to practical plans, and anything in between, we want to hear your ideas.

    Why £1,000? Because that’s what our sponsor McCain is giving away every day for 12 weeks in its new Lucky Spuds promotion, with one overall winner getting £100,000 at the end of the competition!

    To try the game buy a special pack of McCain chips with a ‘Lucky Spuds’ promotional flash on it. From the 19th, go online and play the Lucky Spuds game on Facebook using the code on the back of pack to enter – the highest score of the day wins the £1000, and each code allows 1 play a day, so you can enter over and over again!

    Join us for the Twitter party tomorrow and win some more cool prizes!

    1 x £250 All4One Gift Card, a multi-store voucher redeemable at 17,000 outlets nationwide

    5 x £50 All4One Gift Cards, a multi-store voucher redeemable at 17,000 outlets  nationwide

    To qualify for the drawing, tweet your inspiration or advice on the best way to spend £1,000, along with the #McCainMums hash tag.

    #McCainMums

    13:00 – 14:00

    Weds 21 March 2012

    Join us to share your wildest dreams.