NEW SUMMER DRINK OBSESSION & SUN THERAPY

There’s something truly special about a sunny weekend at home with the kids — no work, just laughter in the garden, and time to soak up the good weather. After weeks of being unwell with COVID and bronchitis (plus every antibiotic and steroid you can imagine), I finally feel like I’m getting back to myself — and this weekend couldn’t have come at a better time.

We recently picked up a large garden swimming pool for the girls, and wow — we definitely underestimated the size! It’s now a permanent summer feature in the garden, big enough for the whole family to enjoy. Between inflatable toys, water balls, and non-stop splashing, it’s been the highlight of our sunny days.

No weekend is complete without a little shopping — and if you know me, you know I love Lush. We popped into town and discovered some exciting new releases:

• Snow Fairy in their new Super Milk range, coming out in June

• The return of the beloved Yog Nog bath bomb for Lush’s 30th anniversary, hoping it stays around!. Fingers crossed as we all love the Yog Nog range.

• And best of all — a new Lush packaging recycling scheme! Starting 28th May for a week, you will get £1 off for every empty bottle returned (up from the usual 50p). A great incentive to stay eco-conscious while treating yourself, and I am so excited to get some of the new bits they have in.

Now that I’ve got my taste buds back (thanks, COVID), I have fallen in love with Starbucks’ new tiramisu iced latte. I was worried it might be too sweet, but it’s perfectly balanced and so creamy. I haven’t tried the cold brew or frappe versions yet, but the iced latte has quickly become my go-to summer drink.

We finished the weekend with an easy, delicious dinner, our version of a British summer salad, but with an epic twist. Homemade potato salad, which is a family recipe passed down from my dad, everyone loves my dad's potato salad, fresh veggies, salt and pepper chicken and the must-try mexican loaded dip from M&S, layer of quacamole, salasa, sour cream, then topped with cheese and jalapenos, SO good, especially with mini tortillas for dipping.

Summer-ready, running errands, soaking up the sunshine, and spending quality time with the girls — this weekend was exactly what we needed. Here’s to more slow, wholesome summer weekends like this.