SpookyMrsGreen

#Ad: Firewood and Eco Fuel from White Horse Energy

Posted on October 1, 2021 by SpookyMrsGreen

Happy October! We are moving into the cold season and my thoughts are turning to a cosy fire, a hot chocolate, and snuggling under my blanket on the sofa.

I recently received a shipment of eco fuel, kiln dried logs, kindling and natural firelighters for review. Read my article to see how it performed in my multi-fuel stove.

Image of a log fire with a cosy fire burning and a box of logs in front of the fire. #ProductReview White Horse Energy logs and kindling reviewed by Catherine Green at SpookyMrsGreen.com mindful parenting and modern pagan lifestyle blog. — #ProductReview White Horse Energy logs and kindling

#ProductReview: Firewood and Eco Fuel from White Horse Energy

Since having my multi-fuel stove installed in our living room a couple of years ago, I have struggled to find a regular supply of firewood. Living in a rural area I naively assumed I could collect logs and do it the old-fashioned way. Of course, it didn’t quite work like that. I don’t have time or strength to gather enough logs and offcuts of wood, to store them long enough to dry out, and to chop them down to size for my stove. I need to have them ready-prepared.

White Horse Energy is the UK’s largest supplier of firewood and briquettes, and they kindly sent me a selection of kiln dried logs, briquettes, Ruf fire blocks, kindling and natural firelighters. The firelighters are brilliant! I have used different ones previously and always had to add more because they often wouldn’t light the logs or coal in my stove. These natural firelighters are quite large, so you only need to use four-six in a standard stove, they are easy to light, and they burn well. I like that I can order a box of 200 Eco Blaze Natural Firelighters because the smaller packets that I previously bought from local shops didn’t last for long. We use our fire every night during cold weather, so you imagine how much fuel we use.

I love the aesthetic of a log fire

I love the aesthetic of a log fire. Kiln dried logs evoke a romantic feeling, they smell nice when they burn, and the crackling sound is soothing to hear. You can order kiln dried logs in bulk from White Horse Energy, so you don’t have to worry about carrying bags of them back from the local supermarket or hardware shop. Similarly, you can order kindling in the quantities that you prefer, and since we use a lot of kindling to start a decent fire, it is worth stocking up. The logs I received burned very well and I was happy with the way they were packed and delivered.

There are alternative fuel options available for log burning stoves and multi-fuel stoves. I was a bit dubious to try the Eco Blaze Pini Kay Briquettes that I received. They don’t look particularly attractive, and they are packaged in non-recyclable plastic. They do burn very well and they last for a few hours in my multi-fuel stove so some days I prefer using the briquettes to using the kiln dried logs. They are also much easier to set alight, so you don’t have to keep checking on the fire as it settles.

Eco Blaze Ruf Fire Blocks

Finally, I tried Eco Blaze Ruf Fire Blocks. These look like compacted sawdust, and I like the smell. They are easy to store in my fuel shed, and they are more cost-effective than kiln dried logs. As with the briquettes, you can use fewer Ruf Fire blocks in your stove and they will burn for a few hours, so they offer an easy, cheap method for heating your living room. They do come wrapped in non-recyclable plastic but that ensures that they arrive ready to burn without needing time to dry out in storage.

Get 5% off your first order! Use code: SpookyMrsGreen – Click here.

Image of a box of natural firelighters. #ProductReview White Horse Energy logs, kindling and firelighters at SpookyMrsGreen.com mindful parenting and modern pagan lifestyle blog. — #ProductReview White Horse Energy logs, kindling and firelighters

Did you enjoy this article? Browse the latest exclusive special offers and discount codes from my affiliate partners. Click here.

Note: This article may contain affiliate links, meaning that if you shop using the links I share, I receive a small income at no extra cost to yourself. Thank you for supporting SpookyMrsGreen!

Posted in #freeforallFriday, advertising, Business, pagan mother, working mom, working mother, working mum | Tagged #freeforallFriday, #lifestyleblog, #lifestylebloggeruk, briquettes for log burning stove, Catherine Green Author, cosy by the fire, eco fuel for log burning stove, firewood burning, LGBT Fantasy book series for adults, LGBT fantasy book writer Catherine Green, SpookyMrsGreen, vampire writer Catherine Green, White Horse Energy | 3 Comments

Supporting Loved Ones Through Mental Health Concerns

Posted on September 30, 2021 by SpookyMrsGreen

Around 1 in 4 people in the UK will experience mental health issues in their lifetime. While great strides have been made in regards to breaking down the stigma associated with mental health problems and concerns, there is still a long way to go until mental health is on the same level as physical health.

However, the more work is done to break down the barriers and get people to open up about their feelings, the better for everyone. But how do you broach this subject with your loved ones if you think they are suffering in silence?

Woman and man sitting on brown wooden bench and turning away from each other.

Image credit

Have A Plan in Place

Before you bring up the topic of how someone is feeling and whether or not they need help, you must have a plan in place. Take into consideration how you can support them to get the right assistance they need in a way that works for them. Write down a list of resources they can refer to, such as helplines, a psychologist, therapist or even close family and friends who have lived through this also. Be prepared for them to be potentially hostile and angry at you bringing it up or for them to completely shut down if they aren’t ready to discuss this yet.

Avoid making decisions about what should happen for them without their consent. At this stage, you are sharing concerns, not taking control over their medical needs.

Know Your Commitment Abilities

It is only natural to want to help them throughout every step of their recovery. But be realistic about what time and support you can offer beforehand. Everyone has lives they need to lead, jobs, families etc. and overcommitting yourself can lead to feelings of disappointment and resentment if you don’t set clear boundaries upfront.

Ensure they know how you can help and what you expect of them to commit to getting help and following it through if they are serious about overcoming their mental health concerns.

Be Careful of the Language You Use

The words you use and the tone of voice play a massive part in how your offer of help is received. People in mental health crises are already struggling with low self-esteem. Any perceived slight or irritation formed from their interactions with you can put a barrier up and close down the lines of communication.

Try not to blame them or personalise their behaviour. How they talk, think, or act is a product of their condition, not them and categorising it as such won’t help anyone. Try to remain calm and use comforting but absolute language when discussing help and assistance to reinforce the fact that things will be happening and action will be taken.

Step Back When You Need To

Knowing when you need to remove yourself, even temporarily, from what is going on is vital to support your wellbeing. After all, you can not help someone else if you aren’t feeling your best both physically and mentally. Take time to pay attention to your wants and needs and support yourself so you can offer the level of support and guidance you want to without draining yourself by taking on too much.

Image of a woman standing between two men who are partly in shadow. All are dressed in black clothes and look mysterious. 3D book cover image for "Love Hurts (A Redcliffe Novel)" from the vampire and werewolf fantasy book series by LGBT fantasy book writer Catherine Green including phone and iPad download images for tablet, iPhone, and android book readers. — LGBT fantasy book series set in Cornwall. “Love Hurts (The Redcliffe Novels)” #1 by Catherine Green.

Did you enjoy this article? Download your FREE copy of LGBT fantasy short story It’s Complicated (The Redcliffe Novels) and meet the werewolves of Cornwall, England. Click here.

Note: This is a collaborative article.

Posted in #freeforallFriday, advertising, Business, health, holistic health, working mom, working mother, working mum | Tagged #freeforallFriday, #healthblogger, #lifestylebloggeruk, Catherine Green Author, how to support your spouse with mental health, LGBT Fantasy book series for adults, LGBT fantasy book writer Catherine Green, mental health awareness, mental health concerns, SpookyMrsGreen, support for mental illness, vampire writer Catherine Green | 1 Comment

Outfit Ideas for a Funeral

Posted on September 29, 2021 by SpookyMrsGreen

Unfortunately, we are all likely to attend a swathe of funerals and wakes in our lifetimes. Although it is not something to look forward to by any means, it is best to be prepared for the eventuality that you will be required to dress appropriately for the occasion.

Today, we’re exploring some different options for funeral-appropriate outfit ideas.

Dresses

The little black dress or LBD may be an essential piece of every woman’s wardrobe, but that does not by any means make them the black dress you want to have at hand for a funeral service. Instead, opt for a dress that goes to the knee as a minimum. Floor-length dresses can be suitable for funerals, but you want to ensure that your dress doesn’t lean too far into ‘gown’ territory, as this is a bit too over-the-top for such a sombre occasion. Another must is that your shoulders are covered. Aside from any religious beliefs, it is simply respectful to wear a dress that isn’t strapless or too low cut.

Tailored, well-fitting dresses are a smart choice that will leave you appropriately dressed without raising any eyebrows. Add accessories like vintage jewellery and perhaps a pair of dark gloves to your attire if you feel your outfit looks a little bare. Pearl jewellery seems especially well-suited to formal events like funerals, bringing some much-needed brightness and lustre to an otherwise solemn day. Using vintage jewellery is particularly appealing for such an event because it somewhat transcends time, connecting the various generations present at the service. Even more compelling as an accessory is vintage jewellery that has been inherited from a family member, since funerals are usually a time for feeling close to one’s family members, both living and deceased.

Suits

If you aren’t the type of person who feels comfortable in a dress, you shouldn’t wear one to a funeral just because you think it is the done thing. Representing your true self is important, even at a funeral, and so if you would be happier in trousers, a suit is the choice for you. Many women’s suits are marketed as being more colourful and often more playful than their male counterparts, but it is possible to find smart, black suits that are fitting for the occasion. The main choices to make if you decide to wear a suit are deciding what shoes to wear and what type of shirt to wear.

A blouse is usually a better choice than a button-down shirt when attending a funeral, as the button-down is closer to workwear, and may read as more ‘professional’ than personal, which the occasion may require. The colour of the blouse is up to you and how well you know the deceased, as many people specifically request that attendees of their funerals wear some colour in their outfit. If the service you attend has this requirement, your blouse is the perfect way of incorporating said colour. You can also add a brooch to further the pop of colour, and even use your shoes to co-ordinate. The decision to wear heels or flats is largely down to your personal preference. If you know other attendees will be dressed in a more subdued way, consider formal flat shoes. Wingtip style shoes or women’s oxfords are perfect for looking smart in flats without looking frumpy or drab.

Nobody is excited to attend a funeral, but the reality of the situation is that you get the opportunity to catch up with family and friends who have perhaps drifted over the years, and you all come together to remember someone who was likely very special to most of the people attending. Make sure you look your best to show you respect and love for all those present the next time you are called upon to attend a funeral.

Did you enjoy this article? Browse the latest exclusive special offers and discount codes from my affiliate partners. Click here.

Note: This is a collaborative article. .

Posted in #freeforallFriday, advertising, Business, pagan mother, working mom, working mother, working mum | Tagged #freeforallFriday, #lifestyleblog, #lifestylebloggeruk, antique jewellery for a funeral, Catherine Green Author, funeral planning, LGBT Fantasy book series for adults, LGBT fantasy book writer Catherine Green, outfit ideas for a funeral, SpookyMrsGreen, what to wear for a funeral | Leave a comment

Ways To Maintain Your Health and Fitness Regime

Posted on September 29, 2021 by SpookyMrsGreen

It can be challenging to maintain a fitness regime. There are so many factors that go into it, and it is hard to stay on top of things like eating well and exercising regularly. However, the best way to avoid problems with your health is by maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

Here are tips for staying fit in the long term, so keep reading.

Image of a woman in a yoga pose holding one leg straight behind her. Shared at SpookyMrsGreen.com mindful parenting and modern pagan lifestyle blog.

Image credit

Be Focused on Your Goals

Be honest with yourself and have predator nutrition. If you like to do something, but it doesn’t help you achieve your goal, then don’t feel bad about not doing that thing. You can find an alternative way of achieving those same goals if necessary. Keep a journal or a planner to track what time and day is the best for workouts so you won’t get confused.

Have a Sound Support System

Make sure that you have people in your life who support what it is that you’re trying to do. Having good friends and family members who encourage you, cheer for you, and give words of encouragement can make all the difference when times get tough or challenging. If there isn’t anyone around like this, though, don’t worry. There are plenty of groups online that you can ask for support from.

Mind What You Eat, and the Products You Choose To Use

It is essential to know what you are putting into your body, consider organizations that they even offer purity certificates. This will help maintain a healthy lifestyle and avoid problems with your health. When choosing food products, look for natural ingredients and avoid processed items or others that contain chemicals.

For example, many foods in supermarkets are filled with additives to give them more flavor, but these can result in digestive problems, so it is better to eat whole rather than processed foods. If possible, try and buy organic foods as these do not contain pesticides and other chemicals.

Schedule Rest Days

Sometimes, it’s best to take a break from working out. You can burn yourself out if you don’t allow for sufficient rest days throughout the week. If you’re feeling worn down and tired on your workout days, consider cutting back on how often you work out or give one of your workouts a more manageable difficulty level.

Research New Ways of Boosting Your Results

This will ensure you stay on top of your health and fitness goals while avoiding harmful chemicals. For many people, the hardest part is maintaining the motivation to continue, but this is where research can help.

Being up to date with new health and fitness information will keep you motivated, as it gives you fresh ideas for your regime and keeps things interesting. However, it is vital that the information you are looking at is reliable, so check out the source’s credentials before deciding what to do next.

Conclusion

As mentioned, there are many ways to maintain your health and fitness regime. The best way is to ensure you get an adequate amount of sleep each night so that you can function at optimum levels during the day.

You must also eat properly to provide fuel for your body to run along its daily course without any problems or glitches. And, of course, exercise is a must to ensure your body stays at its best.

Text reads, "Free e-book download. LGBT werewolf fantasy story. Download Now." Image of a sexy man showing a tattoo on his chest staring at the viewer with a sultry gaze. Vampire and werewolf fantasy books for adults. 3D book cover image for "It's Complicated (The Redcliffe Novels)" from the vampire and werewolf fantasy book series by LGBT fantasy book writer Catherine Green. — LGBT werewolf fantasy story “It’s Complicated (The Redcliffe Novels)” by Catherine Green

Did you enjoy this article? Download your FREE copy of LGBT fantasy short story It’s Complicated (The Redcliffe Novels) and meet the werewolves of Cornwall, England. Click here.

Note: This is a collaborative article.

Posted in #freeforallFriday, advertising, Business, working mom, working mother, working mum | Tagged #freeforallFriday, #lifestylebloggeruk, Catherine Green Author, health and fitness regime, health and wellbeing, health and wellness, how to be healthy, LGBT Fantasy book series for adults, LGBT fantasy book writer Catherine Green, SpookyMrsGreen, vampire writer Catherine Green, ways to stay healthy | Leave a comment

Why Hobbies Matter For Those Who Want To Model Or Be Social Media Stars

Posted on September 24, 2021 by SpookyMrsGreen

Social media influencer, model, Instagram star… they are the careers of the modern age! However, if you want to delve into this world, make sure you have some hobbies too.

Pixabay License

Free for commercial use

No attribution required

Various hobbies can help you to deal with stress

Unfortunately, there is no getting away from the fact that you are likely to feel under pressure a lot in this industry. It is the nature of the modelling world. If you don’t find methods of coping with stress it can easily take over. Therefore, varied activities are essential to ensure you have the right frame of mind. Hobbies allow you to take a break from your career. By focusing on something else, you recharge your batteries and allow your mind to relax.

Listening to music and playing music can be great for this, as can playing games, such as drifting games. Going for a run or reading a book is much more effective than merely sitting at home and getting worked up over something. Modelling should not consume your thoughts every second of the day. This is unhealthy. In fact, you can actually turn this on the flip side, and view activities as being beneficial for those moments when you are feeling uninspired and uninterested with your career. This is because hobbies also provide an excellent source of eustress – they help you to remain feeling excited and positive.

Therefore, you have the perfect balance – a break from stress when you are feeling the strains of the industry, yet also a source of positivity when you are feeling unmotivated.

Active hobbies make sure your body is in excellent condition

There is no denying that the condition of your body is of paramount importance when it comes to the world of modelling. After all, you are your product. Therefore, you need to stick to a stringent fitness regime. By finding physical activities you enjoy, you will find your exercise routine more enjoyable and easier to follow. Not everybody has the motivation to go to the gym every day of the week. Nonetheless, you don’t have to. You simply need to find two key exercises you enjoy.

The first exercise needs to be a high intensity cardiovascular one. The second exercise needs to be one that tones the body. When it comes to cardio, you have so many different options to choose from. You can opt to go running. You can head to your nearest swimming centre. You can take up kick boxing, which is also an excellent source of stress relief.

On the other hand, when it comes to toning you need to look for exercises that are related to stretching. Yoga and Pilates have become increasingly popular over the past few years. These exercises are also beneficial for relaxing the mind. In addition to this, why not give dancing a go? Dancing can fit into both categories. High intensity work outs can be carried out, whilst ballet is an excellent option for those looking for an enjoyable toning activity.

Did you enjoy this article? Download your FREE copy of LGBT fantasy short story It’s Complicated (The Redcliffe Novels) and meet the werewolves of Cornwall, England. Click here.

Note: This is a collaborative article.

Posted in #freeforallFriday, advertising, Business, working mom, working mother, working mum | Tagged #freeforallFriday, #lifestylebloggeruk, being a social media influencer, Catherine Green Author, choose a hobby, choose a sport, hobbies are important, LGBT Fantasy book series for adults, LGBT fantasy book writer Catherine Green, social media star, SpookyMrsGreen, vampire writer Catherine Green, why hobbies matter | Leave a comment

You’re Bored. Now What?

Posted on September 22, 2021 by SpookyMrsGreen

Being bored – it’s part of our daily life. People say that they are bored all the time, whether they’re at work, with friends or just muttering to themselves.

But what actually is boredom?

Unsplash – CC0 License

You’re Bored. Now What?

Well, that’s a tougher question. On a simple level, it’s simply the fact of having nothing to do. But that’s not the whole story. It’s not just a statement of fact – it’s also an emotion. When we feel “bored,” we don’t feel good.

Boredom is actually a warning sign that you need to act and do something. When people feel bored for a long period of time, they can begin to feel depressed, anxious and sad. They need to be working towards something to ease the pain.

If you’re feeling bored, don’t panic. In this post, we present some fun ideas to keep you entertained and drive your life forward.

Find An Activity That Gives You Flow

The concept of “flow” is gaining traction. It’s the idea that you can be so utterly absorbed in a task that you forget about everything else, including the passage of time. Naturally, this state of being instantly eradicates boredom. You’re so absorbed in whatever you’re doing that negative sentiments simply do not arise.

Which activities give you flow depends very much on you as a person. For some, it’s writing a beautiful screenplay, for others, it’s playing music on the piano. Find what works for you.

Do Something That Requires You To Use Your Brain

The average person has a lot of mental horsepower knocking around in their skulls. So when they don’t put it to use, they feel restless.

If you find yourself in this state, try doing something that requires you to engage your brain. It could be anything from video game development to learning about a new subject.

Video games are actually a great solution for boredom because they activate multiple brain regions. The best are fast-twitch games that force you to focus on the action.

Seek Novelty

People who love novelty are much more prone to boredom than the average person. That’s because they are continually looking for ways to stimulate new brain regions. They love the reward that comes with experiencing or learning something novel.

If that sounds like you, then there’s good news – all you need to do is find something new to occupy your mind. In many cases, it doesn’t actually matter what it is. So long as you find it absorbing, it will have the desired effect.

Do Something Less Repetitive

When you follow the same routine every day, life can begin to feel a little stale. If you find that happening to you, then try to find ways to make it less repetitive. Otherwise, you risk a lack of stimulation.

For instance, instead of driving your car to work down the same road every day, take your bicycle. Or instead of addressing the same issue in the office, try applying yourself to a new one.

So, there you have it: some of the things that you can do to stop yourself from feeling bored.

Did you enjoy this article? Download your FREE copy of LGBT fantasy short story It’s Complicated (The Redcliffe Novels) and meet the werewolves of Cornwall, England. Click here.

Note: This is a collaborative article.

Posted in #freeforallFriday, advertising, Business, working mom, working mother, working mum | Tagged #freeforallFriday, #healthblogger, #lifestylebloggeruk, Catherine Green Author, feeling bored of life, how to cure boredom, LGBT Fantasy book series for adults, LGBT fantasy book writer Catherine Green, managing boredom, SpookyMrsGreen, vampire writer Catherine Green | Leave a comment

Try Your Hand At These Fishing Practices, And You Might Just Enjoy!

Posted on September 22, 2021 by SpookyMrsGreen

Anyone looking for a hobby in which they can recover and relax from the stress and hectic pace of everyday life should perhaps try fishing. Fishing requires patience, calm and self-control, but it is also a wonderful balance for anyone who enjoys being in the great outdoors. There are different ways to fish and it is always a good idea to try your hand at the different varieties to see what works.

Let’s take a little peek.

Photo: Unsplash

Bottom fishing – ideal for beginners

In ponds and rivers there are many fish that live on the bottom. These fish can also be caught by those who are new to sport fishing. When bottom fishing, it is important to place the bait on the bottom of a pond or river so that it floats. So that the bait cannot be torn away by the current, a base lead must be attached to the fishing line. The lead holds the bait and also the fishing line to the bottom of the water. All the angler has to do is be patient, be calm, and wait for a fish to take a bite. However, there are also very suspicious fish such as the shy carp or the pikeperch, which cannot be outwitted so quickly, but other fish such as bream, barbell, eel and catfish are not so suspicious and like to snap at the bait.

Fish for trout with the right bait

The tasty trout is a popular fish, but the angler needs a little patience to catch a trout. The advantage of fishing for trout, however, is that these predatory fish are not particularly picky when it comes to bait, because they like to snap at natural as well as artificial bait. The best times to fish for trout are spring and autumn, and those who want to be successful should try what is known as trolling. The bait is always kept in motion and this awakens the trout’s hunting instinct.

You can also fish for trout in winter, but in the cold season the fish are a little sluggish and usually stay at the bottom of a body of water. Trout simply cannot resist delicacies such as mildew, roach or bee maggots that are placed in a feeder close to the ground.

Fishing in the surf

Passionate anglers like to spend a holiday by the sea to fish in the surf. Basically, surf fishing is not that different from deep sea fishing, only that the angler does not stand on a cutter, but with high rubber boots in the roaring surf. In order for fishing in the surf to be crowned with success, the angler should look around for areas rich in fish. Depressions are particularly good, but also rocks, because many species of fish like to stay there. In order to fish in the surf, the equipment has to be right. Here a surf rod that is between 3.90 and 4.35 long promises a good catch. Of course you also need good bait. In this case you must look at the best carp bait.

Did you enjoy this article? Download your FREE copy of LGBT fantasy short story It’s Complicated (The Redcliffe Novels) and meet the werewolves of Cornwall, England. Click here.

Note: This is a collaborative article.

Posted in #freeforallFriday, advertising, Business, working mom, working mother, working mum | Tagged #freeforallFriday, #lifestylebloggeruk, best fishing practices, Catherine Green Author, deep sea fishing, fishing for a hobby, how to fish properly, lake fishing, LGBT Fantasy book series for adults, LGBT fantasy book writer Catherine Green, pond fishing, SpookyMrsGreen, vampire writer Catherine Green | Leave a comment

I Saw a Ghost! Heart of the Vampire (A Redcliffe Novel) #TheRedcliffeNovels

Posted on September 22, 2021 by SpookyMrsGreen

Happy Hump Day! Today I share an excerpt from Heart of the Vampire (A Redcliffe Novel) as we prepare to enter the spookiest season of the year.

Samhain is fast approaching in Redcliffe, Cornwall, and Jessica Stone must learn about control, power, and the love that she truly feels for her vampire boyfriend and his brother.

Image of a sexy dark-haired man wearing a black leather jacket, staring at the viewer, and looking mysterious. 3D book cover image for "Heart of the Vampire (A Redcliffe Novel)" from the vampire and werewolf fantasy book series by LGBT fantasy book writer Catherine Green including phone and iPad download images for tablet, iPhone, and android book readers. — LGBT fantasy book series set in Cornwall. “Heart of the Vampire (The Redcliffe Novels)” #5 by Catherine Green.

Excerpt from Heart of the Vampire (A Redcliffe Novel)

“Jessica,” Simon said in a low voice, “What is wrong?”

He glanced to his left, following my gaze, and Danny did the same. Both men clearly saw nothing and returned their attention to me. I watched as Sally stood straight and looked at me with a small smile. She was clearly not solid, but I could recognise her features, the same long blonde hair that she wore in a high ponytail, her pale skin that she would accentuate with fake tanning lotion, and her bright blue eyes that had been both gentle and dangerous when she was alive. And she knew that I could see her.

I staggered back, almost falling onto the sofa, and Simon leaped forward to steady me. I held out my hand to stop him, not wanting to be weak, and I managed to keep my composure, but in the split second that I turned my attention to Simon, the vision of Sally disappeared. She never spoke. She simply vanished.

“Jessica?” Simon said again, hovering uncertainly nearby, “What did you see?”

I swallowed and looked from him to Danny, and then back to the empty space behind the desk. Danny was frowning and looking to his left, rubbing his arm as though he had an itch.

“Didn’t you see her?” I asked.

Both men shook their heads, but Danny’s expression turned from puzzled to knowing as he realised what I must have seen.

“Sally,” he said in a flat voice.

Simon’s head jerked round as he stared at his master in surprise.

I nodded.

“Yes,” I whispered, “I think I just saw a ghost.”

#TheRedcliffeNovels Series

The Redcliffe novels series follow the adventures of bookshop owner Jessica Stone as she meets a man and falls in love, only to discover the hidden werewolf secrets of her close friends. That includes Simon Bunce, manager of the Ship Inn, who turns out to be lieutenant to the Redcliffe werewolf pack, and lover to the wolf alpha Danny Mason. He fights to protect his master from the ethereal animal familiar who threatens to claim their pack. Who knew the Cornish coast could be so deadly?

Click here for more details about the Redcliffe Novels series.

Download your FREE copy of LGBT fantasy short story It’s Complicated (The Redcliffe Novels) and meet the werewolves of Cornwall, England. Click here.

Posted in a redcliffe novel, advertising, Spooky Stuff, Vampire, vampire books, witches | Tagged #bookblogger, #TheRedcliffeNovels, #witchywednesday, British paranormal romance, British urban fantasy series, British vampires and werewolves, Catherine Green Author, Heart of the Vampire a Redcliffe Novel, SpookyMrsGreen, talking to ghosts, vampires and werewolves, witches and vampires | Leave a comment

What Have I Learned About Myself During the Pandemic?

Posted on September 20, 2021 by SpookyMrsGreen

What have I learned about myself during the pandemic? We are still living in a pandemic but here in the UK we are trying to pick up something of our old lives and get used to new habits because of living with Covid-19.

Heart Health is Important Health Advice shared at SpookyMrsGreen.com mindful parenting and modern pagan lifestyle blog. — Heart Health is Important

What Have I Learned About Myself During the Pandemic?

I learned that I could survive months of lockdown alone with my children, but I needed external support. When I reached out for help, I learned which people I could truly rely on for that help. It was a hard lesson, but I feel it was necessary because since then I have been able to release my ties to the people that previously I gave a lot of time and attention to. Now I can focus on myself without feeling guilty. No more energy vampires for me!

I learned that my children are resilient and mature, and that they can adapt to change very quickly. They were naturally devastated when their lives came to an abrupt halt and our daily routine was cancelled. Then we learned a new routine during lockdown, and by the time we reached our third lockdown at the start of 2021 we felt more confident about how to handle it. We muddled through, we kept ourselves busy, and we came out of it feeling much more cheerful.

I need to devote time to myself

I learned that I need to devote time to myself, and that I can still do that even with my busy lifestyle. Even if it means sitting on the sofa for an hour at night playing a game on my Kindle (I’m addicted to Matchington Mansion!), it is my time to do as I please. Gaming makes me happy and forms a sort of meditation space for me. My alone time needn’t always involve spiritual pursuits or working on my laptop.

I learned to reassess my priorities and choose my battles. My bedtime routine with the children has relaxed a lot since the first lockdown, mainly because I accept that my children are growing older now and I don’t need to worry so much. They get what they need when they need it. Our lives are naturally chaotic but that’s what keeps us going. We like to be spontaneous, and there is nothing wrong with that.

I am happy with my life

I learned that I am happy with my life as it is. Throughout my twenties and thirties, I seemed to be chasing a “perfect lifestyle,” whatever that meant. I cannot control the people around me, least of all my husband, so I had to adjust my expectations or succumb to physical illness through stress. I had to search deep inside myself to decide whether I need to make big life changes or not. For now, I am going with the flow and following my instincts. Time will tell whether I made the right decisions.

What have you learned about yourself during the pandemic?

Did you enjoy this article? Download your FREE copy of LGBT fantasy short story It’s Complicated (The Redcliffe Novels) and meet the werewolves of Cornwall, England. Click here.

Posted in Children, family, health, pagan mother | Tagged #freeforallFriday, #lifestylebloggeruk, #mummymonday, Catherine Green Author, LGBT Fantasy book series for adults, LGBT fantasy book writer Catherine Green, life after lockdown, life lessons in your thirties, life lessons in your twenties, marriage and motherhood, marriage is hard work, marriage problems, SpookyMrsGreen, vampire writer Catherine Green, what have I learned about myself during the pandemic, working mother or housewife | 6 Comments

9 Effective Ways to Manage Chronic Pain

Posted on September 17, 2021 by SpookyMrsGreen

More than three out of ten people experience some form of chronic pain. This statistic alone is an indication of an underlying problem that most people face. While there are short-term remedies, chronic pain can last more than three months and beyond if not treated.

Chronic pain often develops due to underlying medical conditions or after an injury. According to health experts, pain becomes chronic if it goes for more than three months. Additionally, chronic pain can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or social status. Below are some of the most effective ways of managing chronic pain.

Pixabay – CC0 License

Stretch and posture exercises

Full body stretches and other physical exercises aimed at relieving muscle tension can help manage chronic pain. For instance, tai chi is proven to help with underlying chronic pain. Between 10 and 20 minutes of stretching and exercising, posture activities can help you relieve muscle and joint pains categorized as chronic.

Stay active

You may develop chronic pain due to a busy schedule that deprives you of movements. Do not spend all eight working hours on your desk. Move around to strengthen your muscles and reduce tensions in your body, especially the back.

Drug therapy

There are proven medications for managing chronic pain. Every drug may have a different effect, depending on the kind of pain you experience. However, there are also general medications that work for all sorts of pains. You can also use pain-relieving supplements like CBD Gummies to help you manage chronic pain.

Manage your stress

Stress may be another cause of chronic pain. In this case, you should practice relaxing your body and muscles to avoid situations that trigger your pain. Focus on mindfulness and relaxation techniques that help you calm down.

Hot and cold therapy

You can use heat to manage chronic pain by relaxing your muscles. Consider applying ice on painful areas and give it some minutes for the pain to subside. This is called cold therapy, and it helps by reducing inflammation. Heat also relaxes the muscles by dilating your blood vessels.

Massage

Similar to cold and hot therapy, massage is useful in relaxing muscles around the affected areas. Massage manipulates your soft tissues, causing relaxation.

Yoga

Yoga is an effective pain management technique. This practice is aimed at relaxing, strengthening, and keeping the body flexible through different poses. Yoga helps you cope with chronic pain by giving you more control over the painful parts of the body.

Get quality sleep

Sleep has many benefits, including pain management. A good night’s sleep will help you rest and reset, which is beneficial for people living with chronic pain. Set and stick to a bedtime routine that helps you get at least eight hours of uninterrupted quality sleep.

Address underlying conditions

Another way to manage chronic pain is by addressing conditions that trigger such pains. If your pain comes from an underlying injury, ensure you get immediate treatment. Accordingly, if stress is the cause, find ways to manage stress and cope.

Final thoughts

These pain management techniques will help you cope and reduce the negative impact of chronic pain on your life. Pick one or two of these and see if it helps. Remember to see your physician when the pain persists.

Did you enjoy this article? Download your FREE copy of LGBT fantasy short story It’s Complicated (The Redcliffe Novels) and meet the werewolves of Cornwall, England. Click here.

Note: This is a collaborative article.