2013 Travel Series: How To Pack Stage 3: Last Minute

The final and often most important stage of packing is not actually the packing itself but the 'last minute' stuff. It's likely that you will be using the vital things you need for your trip up until the last hour or so before you leave (i.e. toothbrush, hairbrush, phone), and you might therefore forget to bring the extras that aren't packed securely in your suitcase. To avoid this why not try these tips to avoid stress:

1) Make a 'do not forget' list on a Post-It, index card or journal to tick off before you leave

2) Keep a pile to one side of the clothes that you want to wear on the day that you leave to travel. Plan your 'travel outfit' at the same time as you plan your holiday outfits and pack your clothes

3) Make sure you keep everything that you might need accessible when travelling (medication, travel itineries, passport, etc.) readily available, for example in an outer pocket of your suitcase or in your hand luggage. I keep my important documents in a clear Rapesco folder

Carpe Diem xx

Handmade Cards and Crochet: An Alternative Fathers Day Gift Guide

Instead of shelling out a fortune this Father's Day, why not get creative and try a handmade card. You could get the children to try their hand at drawing basic cards. For a more indulgent card why not recycle old materials, such as ribbons or cut-off patterns from old cards or gift wrapping paper. To create a multi-media collage effect, incorporate unwanted or duplicate family photos for a more personal touch.

Craft gifts such as mug cosies made by crochet can be a perfect present for those teapot dads out there. A perfect way of looking after dad and keeping the tea from getting cold! Alternatively, create an ornamental gift that will add years of sentimental value on father's days to come.

Crocheted and knitted gifts can be extended to technology such as cameras and personalised in dads favourite colour. For the tech-savvy or the clumsy, this simultaneously sentimental and practical gift will keep technology safe for years and will be more cost effective than most mass-produced presents.

For the dad with more technology than he can handle, why not personalised crafty cases and covers with patterns or stripes? The possibilities really are endless and can be fun for the crafty son or daughter too. It might be a little too late to crochet a blanket or knit a jumper now though!

Carpe Diem xx