
Justin is a London based dad of three. As well as being a content creator, he's also interested in all things tech, law, software engineering, and photography related, and likes to cycle in his free time.

Through his content, Justin aims to show the true reality of personal parenting alongside fun activity recommendations to do as a family. He focuses a lot on sustainability as his family tries to live in an environmentally conscious way.

Follow him [on Instagram](https://instagram.com/alldadstalk).


Justin


I hear “smart” so very often, especially in the context of technology so when I saw it being brought up in the context of baby care I must admit I was a little bit intrigued.

My other half and I have been in the market for a baby monitor since our little one joined us on the journey. We have recently moved into our new home, a green, sustainable take on the concept of modern living with a few smart features, especially in respect of air ventilation and heating. And when one lives in a house which is “aware” of its environment, it makes sense to make smarter choices in relation to everything else 🙂

---

## SEARCHING FOR A SMART BABY MONITOR

Higher up in the list of features I wanted in a baby monitor were:

-   iPhone app so that we can use our phones as monitoring screens, and
-   A high resolution camera to give us high-def imagery of the kid / cot area.

We found the Cubo Ai Plus. Some say it’s the World’s Smartest Baby Monitor and, I must admit, they were right! We were truly captivated by the story behind how Cubo Ai came into being. Joanna (co-founder) had met her first baby after 6 IVF attempts. One day she found his face accidentally covered. What ensued was a loss of sleep which carried on for months, with her waking up constantly in the middle of the night, worried about missing the moment when her baby needed her the most.

![cubo-ai-001.jpg](https://res.cloudinary.com/dpgowkqsr/image/upload/v1611353516/A21_F96_E4_A276_4_ADB_863_D_9_C58981911_B5_scaled_81530870d6_6759ea85ae.jpg)

Joanna decided to do something about it. So she recruited a paediatrician, A.I. experts and a few parents in tech and sought to create the first baby monitor ever to apply A.I. to baby care. Cubo Ai launched in July 2019 on Indiegogo, the place where early adopters and innovation seekers find lively, imaginative tech before it hits the mainstream. It raised more than 1,000% of their funding goal from almost 3,000 backers. They have since won several industry and marketplace recognition awards like CES Innovation Award 2020, JPMA’s Best in Safety 2020, Mom’s Choice Awards 2020, and NAPPA Awards 2020.

We were sold. I mean the timing was great as we were looking to get a baby monitor and found so much more than that: a smart device which can send you real-time notifications on your device when something seems off (baby has his / her face covered, baby turned on his / her belly, baby is missing from crib), a two-way baby monitor which allows you to play a lullaby remotely, an Ai powered baby monitor that analyses sleep patterns and captures precious moments (like that first time he / she stands up). All in one.

![cubo-ai-002.jpg](https://res.cloudinary.com/dpgowkqsr/image/upload/v1611353455/FFB_67075_75_CA_46_B6_A8_EC_5_CF_5_D6_DF_1_F2_D_scaled_fd06e68b0f_8655ba4aa8.jpg)

---

## MY CUBO AI PLUS REVIEW

We opted for Cubo Ai Plus because it comes packed with everything you need out of the box. We unboxed and installed it the same day and spent a good few hours getting used to all of the wonderful features it brings.

Features we love the most:

-   Full HD 1080p quality imagery with a wide-angle lens giving you an enhanced perspective of the area you’re monitoring. To top it off, you also get amazing infrared light for night vision and a moving, rotatable lens. Plus, you get Temperature and Humidity information on your device too.
-   Microphone is very sensitive so you can hear any noise coming from the area you’re watching, including alerts when the baby cries. There’s also a speaker for those moments when the little one needs to hear your voice for comfort. Say goodbye to uni-directional feed.
-   Internet connectivity and cloud. You can access the feed from any device anywhere you are. I’m so happy being able to interact with my little one whilst at work or travelling.
-   Versatile support system – amazing stand so you can move it freely from place to place and room to room, ability to mount it onto the crib itself and including a mobile stand.
-   Ability to designate a certain ‘Danger Zone” in the room (for example, the kitchen) and Cubo Ai will alert you when the kid enters that Area 51 🙂 – this is handy with our 3 year-old now and will be awesome once the little one begins crawling.

![cubo-ai-008.jpg](https://res.cloudinary.com/dpgowkqsr/image/upload/v1611353460/17_EC_54_AF_4261_4767_A508_F1_FDC_0639_BCA_scaled_438eee3bf8_e191fd79ee.jpg)

---

## CUBO AI APP

I can also say our sleep coach was very happy as it is so much easier to relay information to her – the Cubo Ai Sleep Analytics provides a 1-day comprehensive sleep report every morning that can help understand the baby’s sleep patterns and habits from the night before. A Cubo Ai Premium subscription is also available for free with every purchase of Cubo Ai Plus if you’d like to see thirty days of sleep patterns instead of just one.

![cubo-ai-003.png](https://res.cloudinary.com/dpgowkqsr/image/upload/v1611353455/IMG_7277_72c53611c7_d39ad8e1ac.png)

My favourite feature is the Automatic Photo Capture & Moments Wall. I know I will never miss a FIRST moment when it occurs, wherever I am. Cubo Ai can detect if the baby is smiling, crying or making “big moves” and snaps a photo to immortalise the moment. It then adds it to a scrapbook on the Cubo Ai app, organised neatly by date. You can add the entire family to the album so they can enjoy every moment with you.

![cubo-ai-004.png](https://res.cloudinary.com/dpgowkqsr/image/upload/v1611353457/F41_AE_46_C_FF_81_4193_AC_7_C_AA_2_B0_CDD_375_E_8667cd3454_0e9eefd68c.png)

![cubo-ai-005.png](https://res.cloudinary.com/dpgowkqsr/image/upload/v1611353457/2_C49493_C_F8_D0_4_CDF_A075_F9_EAE_53973_AE_5590b1e58d_834289a301.png)

We have been using Cubo Ai for over a month now and can say it is a smart investment into our peace of mind. We also sleep much better than we used to knowing there’s a trustworthy tiny owl guardian watching over the crib when we’re not in the room. It fits well and unobtrusively in the scenery like it belongs there.

![cubo-ai-006.jpg](https://res.cloudinary.com/dpgowkqsr/image/upload/v1611353455/BC_7_A2_C5_A_8390_457_F_A24_E_BE_271555_CCF_2_scaled_658e4ef59a_e13c1f3e55.jpg)

---

## CUBO AI BABY MONITOR SECURITY

Speaking of trust, the data is processed through the cloud to allow us to receive alerts and notifications via the mobile app. There is also a 2-Factor Authentication available to secure your account. And because Cubo Ai is all about baby safety, they’re using enterprise-level security to encrypt all Cubo videos/photos which are stored in the Cloud with unique AES-256 bit symmetric key encryption that is only accessible via your authenticated device. Cubo always pushes the encrypted video stream directly to your authenticated device. I can rest assured that only our family can watch our little ones growing up.

> You can get yours today on the Cubo Ai [website](https://www.getcubo.com) – use code **CUBOTALK** for an extra added discount on top of their sales price!\*

\*Code only redeemable on the **<https://www.getcubo.com>** website. Cubo Ai Plus is also available on Amazon UK.

![cubo-ai-007.jpg](https://res.cloudinary.com/dpgowkqsr/image/upload/v1611353455/EDA_089_D2_F087_4_A40_A609_BCB_6_D5_B4_EE_27_scaled_bd4c0ab300_a548a25a47.jpg)


I hear “smart” so very often, especially in the context of technology...

Cubo Ai Plus smart baby monitor - protect them at every step


> Towbar bike rack dream right here!

![thule-bike-rack-005.jpg](https://res.cloudinary.com/dpgowkqsr/image/upload/v1611949416/thule_bike_rack_cover_9572156d95.jpg)

If you follow me on Instagram, you know what a huge fan of anything Thule I am. Last year I have been kindly given a [Thule EasyFold XT 3](https://www.thule.com/en-gb/bike-rack/towbar-bike-racks/thule-easyfold-xt-3-_-934300) for a review and I’ve been using it ever since. I had an old bike rack on my previous car which can only be described in two words: not Thule!

![thule-bike-rack](https://res.cloudinary.com/dpgowkqsr/image/upload/v1611944772/B8_B847_D2_71_A8_49_DD_9458_11_DDA_654_ABA_1_1825273b71.jpg)

![thule-bike-rack](https://res.cloudinary.com/dpgowkqsr/image/upload/v1611944778/BD_3969_DE_E3_AF_4802_810_F_8_F9728764_C13_6f6a9450be.jpg)

This fully foldable, compact, and easy-to-use [towbar-mounted bike rack](https://www.thule.com/en-gb/bike-rack) for all types of bikes is absolutely brilliant! When I say all types of bikes, I really mean it! Check the photos below, find the 50 year old chopper and you’d know that’s mine 🙂 Bulky, heavy and a bit rusty (shhh) but it fits like a dream in the bike rack. So does Aly’s gigantic bike which comes with a huge basket – apparently her ‘I can’t live without’ insta prop!

![thule-bike-rack-010.jpeg](https://res.cloudinary.com/dpgowkqsr/image/upload/v1611944550/18_DD_199_C_A172_4638_B54_A_AFC_345773317_5bdd61ae7d.jpg)

Here are some of my features of the Thule bike rack:

-   Fully foldable for convenient mounting, handling and storage – the way in which it folds is a big plus for when it’s off the car and into STORAGE!

![thule-bike-rack](https://res.cloudinary.com/dpgowkqsr/image/upload/v1611944935/E844_E80_B_00_D4_4_EBB_B28_B_DA_418_B71_BB_4_D_16db290e55.jpg)

-   High load capacity enabling transport of e-bikes and heavy mountain bikes – Yes!!! Just check our bikes 😀

![thule-bike-rack](https://res.cloudinary.com/dpgowkqsr/image/upload/v1611944791/D9_FED_79_A_C565_45_A9_B5_DB_8_ACD_61_B0_E11_E_edf07b1c77.jpg)

-   Easy mounting of bikes through detachable bike arms with lockable Thule AcuTight torque limiter knobs that click when optimal torque is reached – another feature which I love!!

![thule-bike-rack](https://res.cloudinary.com/dpgowkqsr/image/upload/v1611944646/57_FDF_1_F6_F8_E7_42_FE_872_C_9_E9023_AE_11_EC_a267efff62.jpg)

-   Smooth mounting and adjustment of the bike rack before closing the tightening handle, thanks to the towbar coupling’s initial stability

![thule-bike-rack](https://res.cloudinary.com/dpgowkqsr/image/upload/v1611944530/6_C59_FC_88_4646_417_D_85_BA_7_D884_ECDA_79_D_6de234fb93.jpg)

-   Ergonomic transport of the bike rack thanks to the integrated transport wheels and carrying handle – Aly can carry it by herself with absolutely no problem!

![thule-bike-rack](https://res.cloudinary.com/dpgowkqsr/image/upload/v1611944662/808_AF_19_C_B011_4891_A91_A_82_BE_2_ED_5488_F_b1cb546269.jpg)

-   Pre-assembled, no tools required – the GENIUS part!!!

![thule-bike-rack-007.jpeg](https://res.cloudinary.com/dpgowkqsr/image/upload/v1611944517/0_AA_71_EF_6_B9_F3_4726_A5_A6_8_AB_40_C8_CF_1_EC_06838feee4.jpg)

-   Lock your bikes to the bike rack and your bike rack to the towbar (locks included) – yes, they are included and it gives me more piece of mind.

![thule-bike-rack](https://res.cloudinary.com/dpgowkqsr/image/upload/v1611944662/808_AF_19_C_B011_4891_A91_A_82_BE_2_ED_5488_F_b1cb546269.jpg)

![thule-bike-rack-014.jpeg](https://res.cloudinary.com/dpgowkqsr/image/upload/v1611944667/3737_D8_D9_AA_0_A_4367_AB_3_A_67442_D39_B512_98a3c815ba.jpg)

![thule-bike-rack-016.jpeg](https://res.cloudinary.com/dpgowkqsr/image/upload/v1611944521/3_BF_5218_E_CFEE_4_B8_B_864_A_89694_E66_DF_0_D_31f6f62283.jpg)

You can find below a few photos from my first experience with the bike rack on our Tesla Model X.

You can find all tech behind the product on Thule website, but here are a few more details below that may interest you.


If you follow me on Instagram, you know what a huge fan of anything Thule I am...

Thule did it again - THE dream bike rack for families


> Every once in a while a revolutionary product comes along that changes everything. (Steve Jobs)

One such product was the iPhone. It put the “smart” back into SmartPhone and created an ecosystem which was undreamed-of at the time. And, it’s only been a little more than 10 years since.

I am lucky to ride such a revolutionary product to work – a [**Micro Merlin**](https://www.micro-scooters.co.uk/micro-merlin-adult-electric-scooter.html) adult electric scooter – and have been on electric scooters for over 4 years now. Like thousands of other dads, I work in the City. I’ve commuted using the tube or bus for years until I said to myself - insert Joey’s voice from the milk carton ad in Friends here 😀 - “there’s gotta be a better way”.

![Scooting into the future photo 001](https://res.cloudinary.com/dpgowkqsr/image/upload/v1611944538/8_A9_C2_DAF_E77_D_4143_9638_5870_C56_CAC_12_87db6ada01.jpg)

Riding a bike is and has always been an option and for good reasons thousands of Londoners are and have been doing it for years. However, getting sweaty into work or showering and changing clothing as I arrived (not an option in most of my jobs) put me off biking for my work commute. I do ride my bike(s) regularly outside of my work commute and I stand behind all efforts to make biking safer and more accessible to everyone within London and elsewhere.

![Scooting into the future photo 002](https://res.cloudinary.com/dpgowkqsr/image/upload/v1611944670/7315_DE_3_F_4_C15_414_F_865_D_7_AD_13917008_D_1acc450d59.jpg)

Driving springs to mind immediately. Cars have been around for 133 years so all generations since have been born into a culture constructed more or less around car transportation. Yet, cars get stuck in traffic and pollute our breathing air and have recently been into scandals for faking their emissions. I’ve read recently that a great deal of people in London are living with illegal air pollution – about 2 million – according to the most recent data. Posters all over my kid’s school are asking parents to step in and petition the Mayor to take action.

![Scooting into the future photo 003](https://res.cloudinary.com/dpgowkqsr/image/upload/v1611944640/39_A80_CB_9_4_A1_F_4423_B3_DB_9081_DC_40_A812_d50045e2a2.jpg)

We’ve seen ULEZ (Ultra Low Emission Zone) @transportforlondon coming into play on 8 April and that’s slowly solving part of the problem. It seems that recorded nitrogen dioxide levels are falling and could reach legal levels within six years. That’s still 6 YEARS of our kids’ CHILDHOOD under pollution, never mind your daily commute to work, school runs or the occasional trip to the farmers’ market, it’s their little lungs we need to think more about and we can only do it if we collectively try and change our mind framework. It’s not only reducing plastic or saving water that should be high up on our agenda, but what we chose for our daily travel and including driving, too.

![Scooting into the future photo 004](https://res.cloudinary.com/dpgowkqsr/image/upload/v1611944930/DEC_6_F1_B8_A571_4058_B28_E_14_DE_168_A2071_0ad758e3f8.jpg)

So back to electric scooters then. I believe I was one of the first Londoners on an electric scooter which I imported from the US when I began using it for the daily commute (almost 5y ago) so my research is pretty solid when it comes to this path I’ve chosen. They used to be noisy, heavy and bulky, nothing like the slim, silent & light options we have today.

![Scooting into the future photo 005](https://res.cloudinary.com/dpgowkqsr/image/upload/v1611944655/609_F63_D3_3_CCB_495_B_AB_28_5_B5_CED_27_AF_02_d7e7399359.jpg)

I am now riding a Merlin scooter awesomely put together by @microscooter_official – that’s their insta handle – they have an amazing team of dedicated people to make the world a better, greener place. They are makers of fine scooters for both the kids and us dads – you should watch Lucas in action. I’ve included below a few photos of Lucas who is now 5 and he has been on a scooter since before he turned 2. He is now rocking a [**Microscooter Maxi**](https://www.micro-scooters.co.uk/browse-maxi-micro-scooters?gclid=Cj0KCQjw0brtBRDOARIsANMDykaJ3QNyxc2d-O8jeIRKC_Bmjv111yKwXdcMJjArdqQy7Jcki_MbRyMaAvLbEALw_wcB).

![Scooting into the future photo 006](https://res.cloudinary.com/dpgowkqsr/image/upload/v1611944542/8_F671_CB_3_7_C96_4075_ABD_6_97_FA_8_FC_4_DA_97_538ee398ee.jpg)

We, as a family are trying to be more and more conscious about the choices we make and it all started before I chose to drive electric. It was at a time when research was revealing the utter dominance of the “single-occupant automobile” (Alan Pisarski) in our daily commuting. To you and me that’s “most of us drive alone in a 4/5/6/7/8 seater to work”. That’s not efficiently using resources and sad ☹️.

![Scooting into the future photo 007](https://res.cloudinary.com/dpgowkqsr/image/upload/v1611944783/C7_D2956_F_1643_450_F_BCA_7_2_F74652_E2_E58_e7ab719fce.jpg)

Long story short, even if you’re driving electric, parking is scarce and prohibitively expensive in the City – unless you happen to work in the Westminster City Council area – kudos to WCC for being so ahead of their time with their parking policy which encourages commuters to go electric (in case you didn’t know: you pay £0.81 per first 10 minutes and stay for the max duration of that bay). To compare, parking outside my office in Moorgate cost £4.80/hr and I have to move the car every 2 hours – that’s expensive even for high earners and affects my work productivity also.

![Scooting into the future photo 008](https://res.cloudinary.com/dpgowkqsr/image/upload/v1611944521/3_AC_00_DF_9_68_F6_483_D_9979_A98_E3_AAD_46_B3_e0ee7b27fd.jpg)

## In the pipeline

Last but never least, they are now working on a brilliant electric car and my other half is determined to get hers in 2020 when it arrives in London. It comes with a scooter 😉.

More about it [**here**](https://microlino-car.com/en/microlino).


Like thousands of other dads, I work in the City. I’ve commuted using the tube...

Scooting into the future - with the Micro Merlin


Almost every Sunday I’m taking my little ones to the farmers’ market. It’s not much for the fresh veggies, occasional live music or for hoping to run again into my celebrity neighbours (see you on Sunday, Thandie!;) but for best pizza served here in this tiny corner of London, made by two true Napolitano guys and their tiny fire oven on wheels.

![ooni-pro-pizza-oven-pic-oven-and-box](https://res.cloudinary.com/juicecultus/image/upload/v1602874240/6_E1_DFE_03_4_E36_4_C51_9535_437_D29_ADF_5_F9_7d8f09da8c.jpg)

![ooni-pro-pizza-oven-pic-protective-gloves](https://res.cloudinary.com/juicecultus/image/upload/v1602874097/1_C451_FC_4_803_A_4748_BF_3_B_59525_B1_DCC_4_A_40b0aa48bb.jpg)

Because I do love my pizza. Occasionally I enjoy making my own in the kitchen oven, but until now I didn’t realise playing with dough and fire can be easily achievable in my very own garden.

While it is determining all of us to spend more time in the outdoors and less on the sofa waiting for the alarm sound of the kitchen oven! I must add that my neighbours were a tad jealous in the beginning – but don’t worry, they have already tried my pizza and some of them are now making their own arrangements for getting their own pizza maker 😉

![ooni-pro-pizza-oven-pic-toddler-little-tikes-car](https://res.cloudinary.com/juicecultus/image/upload/v1602874239/0_ED_817_E7_DBF_2_4239_AC_54_81_C87_F75660_F_d52d5dd0ce.jpg)

After careful research and weighing up what was truly important for me (especially in terms of #sustainability), I decided to go for the [Ooni Pro Pizza Oven](https://ooni.com/) because it had most of those key features which ticked my boxes and keep me happy in the most cooking/baking circumstances:

-   HOT – this oven gets to the required temperature and is ready to cook in 20 minutes counting from lighting it up

![ooni-pro-pizza-oven-pic-get-those-matches-ready](https://res.cloudinary.com/juicecultus/image/upload/v1602874240/01_B8_B35_F_6514_440_E_80_F7_1389_DE_97_B822_125b38bfe1.jpg)

-   FLEXIBLE – I like choices and so I enjoy the flexibility of fuels I can use with it; this is a portable oven so no matter where I take it in our city escapes, I can fire it up with wood, charcoal, wood pellets or gas (2 extensions bought separately for gas or pellets). By default it comes ready for firing it up with wood/charcoal which is my usual choice of fuel anyways as it gives the pizza that special taste.

![ooni-pro-pizza-oven-pic-set-fire](https://res.cloudinary.com/juicecultus/image/upload/v1602874239/3_D6_ECA_29_3_C2_D_4457_86_CB_8_FCC_173_FA_41_C_a7930b608d.jpg)

-   VERSATILE – I can cook smaller or larger (up-to 16-inch) pizzas & a range of our family’s favourite dishes or bake bread – I’m a bread maker enthusiast 🙂

![ooni-pro-pizza-oven-pic-no-smoke-without-fire](https://res.cloudinary.com/juicecultus/image/upload/v1602874097/0_E10_C430_1_AAE_4_A78_9_B5_B_5_F464811_D892_96ecac9d7c.jpg)

In the box you’ll find the [Ooni Pro Pizza Oven](https://uk.ooni.com/) with Stone baking board (4 parts easy to assemble), an oven door with built-in thermometer (for when you’ve had enough of those delish pizzas and want to go for cooking other dishes – please ensure you’re using special cookware inside the oven – or bake bread), a pizza door with postbox-style entry (this is the one I recommend to use for pizzas), a wood & charcoal burner tray, Essentials Guide & Manual, Allen key and Ooni Pizza Oven Gloves.

I also got a Ooni 14 “ Classic Pizza Peel and a Ooni Infrared Thermometer which I would add to the essential pizza-enthusiast’s list of handy tools.

Dads are all about technical details though so here goes:

-   Dimensions: 29.13 x 19.29 x 31.1″ (740 x 490 x 790mm)

![ooni-pro-pizza-oven-pic-freshly-made-pizza-dough](https://res.cloudinary.com/juicecultus/image/upload/v1602874097/0_E6_CD_8_AE_5_BA_9_4_F17_AA_42_9_A34_B060738_C_b9d01469fa.jpg)

-   Unboxed weight: 48.5lbs (22kg)

![ooni-pro-pizza-oven-pic-smile-to-the-camera](https://res.cloudinary.com/juicecultus/image/upload/v1602874101/50_A1_FCBD_C922_4_E32_9_EF_5_EF_3_C10_BC_2105_a573ca5889.jpg)

-   Cooking surface: 17.7 x 17.7″ (450 x 450mm)

![ooni-pro-pizza-oven-pic-help-always-welcome](https://res.cloudinary.com/juicecultus/image/upload/v1602874101/B183_BDA_1_F435_4_C8_F_B2_C2_BF_47983_FCC_06_bbc8e410b9.jpg)

-   Brushed stainless steel with ceramic fibre insulation

![ooni-pro-pizza-oven-pic-adding-tomato-sauce-to-dough](https://res.cloudinary.com/juicecultus/image/upload/v1602874236/5119_A376_CA_74_4_BD_3_BEBF_455_F4_C237054_ba471e9ff0.jpg)

-   15mm cordierite stone baking board

![ooni-pro-pizza-oven-pic-make-sure-the-temperature-is-right](https://res.cloudinary.com/juicecultus/image/upload/v1602874236/1_DF_75_D94_E53_E_4915_858_F_4_B264373840_C_524b663478.jpg)

-   Ooni Pro Gas Burner - which is compatible with large propane tanks (normally used with barbecues), as well as 1-Lb propane tanks along with a suitable adaptor. Maximum power: 7kWh (20472 BTU)

![ooni-pro-pizza-oven-pic-master-chef](https://res.cloudinary.com/juicecultus/image/upload/v1602874101/F6361_C8_B_BA_39_4469_AF_61_536_AD_288479_B_0412bd7105.jpg)

There is a fine Father’s Day giveaway on my [AllDadsTalk](https://www.instagram.com/alldadstalk/) insta grid, one lucky winner will win a Ooni Pro prize pack which includes the Ooni Pro, Ooni 14” Classic Pizza Peel, and Ooni Infrared Thermometer. Enter [here](https://www.instagram.com/p/ByR2yzlnduW/) or [here](https://www.instagram.com/p/ByQru2nlXvs/).

![ooni-pro-pizza-oven-pic-ingredients-ready](https://res.cloudinary.com/juicecultus/image/upload/v1602874097/76_AA_5_C94_36_FA_42_CF_91_C9_97_CAF_53563_B0_4d74124fb7.jpg)

Being able to prepare dishes I enjoy outside our kitchen is rather cool.

![ooni-pro-pizza-oven-pic-pizza-in-the-oven](https://res.cloudinary.com/juicecultus/image/upload/v1602874236/77_FD_2_B00_76_C0_4_EF_8_8474_5_DE_71_BAFE_4_F6_0d4b4c3176.jpg)

It encourages the kids to spend more time running around in the garden, help us prep fresh ingredients and eventually making the kind of great memories I want them to have when it comes to spending time with their dad.

![ooni-pro-pizza-oven-pic-presentation-pizza-on-peeler](https://res.cloudinary.com/juicecultus/image/upload/v1602874236/ED_303_D65_D6_A0_4296_9_ABA_B59461_CC_6_A9_C_b280c5dab7.jpg)

![ooni-pro-pizza-oven-pic-handle-peeler-with-care](https://res.cloudinary.com/juicecultus/image/upload/v1602874236/924_B2_C7_E_C29_A_4_EC_6_A139_75_EB_41_E8_B979_52c0b787be.jpg)

This article has been written in partnership with Ooni, the Ooni Pro has been gifted and all thoughts are mine. So is the pizza I just made 😉

![ooni-pro-pizza-oven-pic-pizza-ready-on-plate](https://res.cloudinary.com/juicecultus/image/upload/v1602874236/4693_AD_11_DBB_5_42_A6_95_EA_AB_7182_E777_D7_bc80557908.jpg)

![ooni-pro-pizza-oven-pic-peeler-ready-hot](https://res.cloudinary.com/juicecultus/image/upload/v1602874239/A397_C1_F5_2_F8_E_4915_B578_4710_F39_BACF_9_aaee7aae03.jpg)

Gotta leave you now, daddy's gotta chop some wood! Happy baking


Almost every Sunday I’m taking my little ones to the farmers’ market...

In crust we trust... And in the Ooni outdoor oven


I remember the first time someone asked me (casually) in a job interview: so ... what is your hobby? I answered quickly: I collect coins. The conversation that ensued is still pretty vivid in my head. I mean ... what were the odds (I was thinking at the time) that both the interviewer and I have the same hobby. It just happened that we got to spend the next 10 minutes discussing the topic. It quickly built a bridge in the most touching way I could think of. Two people from different cultures and unique backgrounds converging by means of a hobby. It had the desired effect: braking the ice of what is otherwise a very formal job interview and allowed us to discover more of what we are on the inside.

![change-checker-004.jpeg](https://res.cloudinary.com/dpgowkqsr/image/upload/v1611944789/D4_A67406_A6_BD_49_F3_A9_A5_AE_4_C26_B879_C0_e91d711236.jpg)

Later on I learned that coin collection is a hobby embraced by tens or hundreds of thousands of people of all background, culture, sex, political orientation and so on al over the world.

![change-checker-014.jpeg](https://res.cloudinary.com/dpgowkqsr/image/upload/v1611944530/6_C245_B69_1529_4179_B8_D8_AD_53150_D819_D_b4b29a1c7a.jpg)

I was 5 when my dad gave me a little wooden box with a few coins in it. He’d received it from someone in one of his daily visits to the church congregation (dad was a priest). That someone had a little boy my age named John and the coins in the box were duplicates. And so, I became friends with John and both of us hooked. We’d swap duplicates between us and soon enough dragged others into the hobby and spend our weekends, half terms and summer holiday mostly outdoors looking for coins to add to our collections.

![change-checker-012.jpeg](https://res.cloudinary.com/dpgowkqsr/image/upload/v1611944641/48_CCDA_82_A243_4808_A053_654724_B3_CAD_8_7a5981c2ee.jpg)

We grew up in an area where there had been much trade historically and the best parts to look for coins was after a rainy day and around the walls of an ancient Roman city which flourished more than 17 hundred years ago.

![change-checker-009.jpeg](https://res.cloudinary.com/dpgowkqsr/image/upload/v1611944675/76436_C87_ACA_3_4_E33_9_CB_1_E43752325192_ba9f6b198d.jpg)

Of course, we never stopped bothering our often travelling relatives for foreign coins. And mom and dad and soon all my siblings were very soon instructed to enquire about coins wherever they went.

![change-checker-001.jpeg](https://res.cloudinary.com/dpgowkqsr/image/upload/v1611944786/CB_130614_FF_66_4_C84_A36_A_898_A042_F0051_f40744ee15.jpg)

As time went by, the collection grew in size and always moved into a bigger and bigger wooden box. Our knowledge of history, coins and materials grew with it. Yet, identifying our coins was always a struggle, especially in a time without Google or access to specialised databases.

![change-checker-019.jpeg](https://res.cloudinary.com/dpgowkqsr/image/upload/v1611944766/A2528_DF_5_C86_A_4_A5_A_B035_9_B01256_D45_F8_5f2d88409c.jpg)

A little while ago I came across [Change Checker](https://changechecker.org/). It offers a seamless way to find, identify, collect and even swap circulating coins. And, the best part, no more wooden little boxes. Change Checker provides a cool organiser instead. It’s a great to get kids like my 5-yo into coin collection.

![change-checker-013.jpeg](https://res.cloudinary.com/dpgowkqsr/image/upload/v1611944546/9_A8081_B2_4549_4_FA_6_958_B_9_B9_E7_D269713_fb3b3f1290.jpg)

Like any working in the city dad, I put a great deal of value on the time I spend with my little ones. And, with Change Checker, coin collection becomes more than a hobby: it helps me creating quality time with my kids, fuels their curiosity and inclination for organisation and builds up their self esteem. I see Lucas being really proud while discussing his collection with everyone he meets and it brings back warm memories from my childhood.

![change-checker-005.jpeg](https://res.cloudinary.com/dpgowkqsr/image/upload/v1611944771/B4_D36318_EA_86_439_D_998_F_BD_48804_B6_E45_1_486a273525.jpg)

Last week, we received the Sherlock Holmes 50p coin. He sat quietly listening to me reading him that the coin has been issued to celebrate the 160th anniversary of Conan Doyle’s birth (the writer of Sherlock Holmes). By the way, the Sherlock Holmes 50p coin will be available to purchase from Change Checker at £4.50 (+p&p) and can be bought as a special keepsake. There’s other coins (such as the Beatrix Potter 50ps) that can also be found within your change, so take a look!

![change-checker-015.jpeg](https://res.cloudinary.com/dpgowkqsr/image/upload/v1611944533/6_DF_709_C3_11_C3_4357_8_BF_1_97_EF_6826_FAF_9_affcbe6475.jpg)

We’ve now become curious about other coins that might be lurking within our change after getting this coin. Lucas has a money bank (in the shape of an owl) and he’s filling it up throughout the week. And on a weekend usually, we’d sit down and empty it and go through all of the coins. We’d check them against the collectible ones in the Change Checker file. I cannot express enough the joy on his face and in his eyes when he finds one and puts it in the organiser.

I enjoy reading him a few lines about the history of each of the coins we find so we learn more and more each time.

![change-checker-016.jpeg](https://res.cloudinary.com/dpgowkqsr/image/upload/v1611944531/6_D5_F6598_A092_4_C98_9948_9769449078_BA_1_1cb3c18b11.jpg)

All in all, it’s been a really fun and interesting hobby for me and the kids to get involved with. More than that, those previous minutes or hours we spend engaged in it gives Aly a breather to catch up with her activities.

If you feel coin collection may well be a hobby for you and your little one(s) then go to the Change Checker [website](https://changechecker.org/) to get started. You may start with the purchase of your own [Sherlock Holmes 50p coin](https://www.westminstercollection.com/p-460V/2019-UK-Sherlock-Holmes-CERTIFIED-BU-50p.aspx?utm_source=chch%20blog&utm_medium=blog&utm_content=first%20look%20new%20royal%20mint%20coin%20designs%20for%202019&sn=3&brand=changechecker#) and, while at that, try and find out more about the other unique 10p, 50p and £2s available! And - with a Sherlock’s voice - 😀 do give me a shout if you’ve got duplicates that you want to swap.


I remember the first time someone asked me (casually) in a job interview: so...

Change Checker – Let The Coin Hunt Begin


Not long ago 😀 (exactly one year ago!) my other half packed up a light suitcase (not light enough according to my packing up male standards) and we hit the road towards Cornwall.

![eden-project-cornwall](https://res.cloudinary.com/dpgowkqsr/image/upload/v1611944521/3_B2_E122_E_0_CA_4_484_C_8201_67_B87_F212_A77_38180f1112.jpg)

![eden-project-cornwall](https://res.cloudinary.com/dpgowkqsr/image/upload/v1611947712/B3216_D16_1_A2_E_4_E6_E_81_C5_2_EEA_5_E24_C932_b46c390157.jpg)

I only found this draft a few moments ago and I thought I should just go ahead and publish it because I don’t believe there are too many parents who know about this place. It really is a brilliant day out for any family which wants to explore a bit of nature while having learning about the this educational charity and social enterprise.

![eden-project-cornwall](https://res.cloudinary.com/dpgowkqsr/image/upload/v1611944931/DB_84366_D_CEA_2_4168_B778_C57377_D4140_D_bf18488b7e.jpg)

![eden-project-cornwall](https://res.cloudinary.com/dpgowkqsr/image/upload/v1611944547/10_E71_C54_400_A_4460_AD_45_D6_AB_139_B7848_5f4afb5ff9.jpg)

![eden-project-cornwall](https://res.cloudinary.com/dpgowkqsr/image/upload/v1611944538/7_DBA_7_F65_E19_A_45_B8_8_B00_18_E6_BF_1_D88_C5_f711fdb362.jpg)

![eden-project-cornwall](https://res.cloudinary.com/dpgowkqsr/image/upload/v1611944540/8_D947_A1_C_4_A62_411_D_BA_50_D76_FFA_0976_B4_63e351076c.jpg)

The visitor destination in Cornwall is nestled in a huge crater. Here, massive Biomes housing the largest rainforest in captivity, stunning plants, exhibitions and stories serve as a backdrop to some striking contemporary gardens, summer concerts and exciting year-round family events.

![eden-project-cornwall](https://res.cloudinary.com/dpgowkqsr/image/upload/v1611944649/70_FF_1627_9_ACC_486_F_82_EF_80_E81_B598274_15fb9bf91e.jpg)

![eden-project-cornwall](https://res.cloudinary.com/dpgowkqsr/image/upload/v1611944662/949_E1_DD_9_26_A7_47_E7_B7_FA_94_ED_80_CDC_099_b5d0cee05f.jpg)

Here it is, the Eden Project! You’ll find here lots of great topics like sustainability and supporting local communities. I am really curious to see what has changed/ been added so we may pay Eden another visit!

![eden-project-cornwall](https://res.cloudinary.com/dpgowkqsr/image/upload/v1611944649/83_C0_F453_3932_47_DB_B136_6820021_D3790_1a601c341c.jpg)

![eden-project-cornwall](https://res.cloudinary.com/dpgowkqsr/image/upload/v1611944679/569590_EF_6_BF_2_4_AD_9_9_FAE_A24_FAA_075370_69f60c9820.jpg)

That was then…Now it’s time to go on and explore a wilder and more exotic landscape! That’s why I am entering the Yellow Zebra Safaris competition which includes some of my dream ever locations! My other half Aly @allmumstalk has been talking forever about going on a safari honeymoon as we got married two years ago (on our 1oth anniversary) but never made it to our honeymoon! Winning this may make me the best insta husband ever ;))

![eden-project-cornwall](https://res.cloudinary.com/dpgowkqsr/image/upload/v1611944756/7583752_C_1_CD_2_498_A_9251_0_C707_D5945_A3_fd30a5ded8.jpg)

![eden-project-cornwall](https://res.cloudinary.com/dpgowkqsr/image/upload/v1611944766/AA_03_E003_DEE_5_4890_84_C3_48130_E00_D8_BE_a97d4bdb44.jpg)

![eden-project-cornwall](https://res.cloudinary.com/dpgowkqsr/image/upload/v1611944940/F80_C5_FA_4_F9_E0_4_C2_D_B64_E_BB_657_C0_EE_996_ada878eeb7.jpg)

P.S. I like to believe that my photography skills have improved since and capturing a lion in the wilderness with my new Zeiss lens could only add some great memories to the photo album.

![eden-project-cornwall](https://res.cloudinary.com/dpgowkqsr/image/upload/v1611944766/A2594_C23_FD_13_4_E5_C_85_BC_F88_E56_CBB_657_d2fd657bdf.jpg)

Let me know what you think if you have already visited it! Or if you’ve been on a safari!


Not long ago 😀 (exactly one year ago!) my other half packed up a light suitcase...

Cornwall travels. Eden Project


A SOUTHBANK INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL review. (written in partnership with Southbank International School)

I recently read a very interesting article about state funded schools adapting too slowly to the realities of the world, the conclusion being that the curriculum has had too little-a-change from the initial design which, as its main aim, was supposed to get students ready for, and coping with, a factory environment. With no factories in sight for quite some time now, that education system is rendered mostly inapt. “Web 3.0” is in the works, social media is encompassing every aspect of work and home life, there is continuing progress in gender equalities at board levels and more and more people are demanding flex-work. We have never felt more the need of a better suited education model to get today’s students ready for today’s realities.

![south-bank-international](https://res.cloudinary.com/dpgowkqsr/image/upload/v1611946281/Picture4_81e9df1f8b.jpg)

Since we started looking at schools for our son who is now four, I set out to identify one to reassure me that it’s implementing a system that works around the child’s individualism inasmuch as it attempts to prepare him to adapt to an ever-evolving society. We’re pretty lucky to be in London, and this is by all means a city of choice. After a long research on schools, I’m thrilled to be able to share my review on possibly the finest school program we’ve seen: Southbank International School(link).

It’s been a while since we started looking into schooling options for Lucas. Last week we’ve visited Southbank Kensington which ticked most of our boxes. I have also managed to get an insightful interview with Siobhan McGrath who is working at the Southbank International School as Executive Principal.

WHICH ARE THE TOP 3 SCHOOL VALUES?

Southbank International School is committed to academic excellence, a liberal ethos and the values of the International Baccalaureate.

WHAT IS THE SCHOOL’S PRIMARY FOCUS IN RESPECT OF ACADEMIC DELIVERY?

Our primary focus is for our students to enjoy learning. They are exposed to a very broad curriculum that offers challenge, fosters critical thinking, encourages questioning and allows them to pursue their own areas of interest. Our students are encouraged from the beginning to develop independent learning habits and to be able to self-regulate. As they graduate on to university and then work, the skillset they have developed makes it much easier for them to do well than students who have been spoon fed.

![south-bank-international](https://res.cloudinary.com/dpgowkqsr/image/upload/v1611946280/Picture1_7e04f7a0f2.jpg)

PARENTS LOOK FORWARD TO THEIR CHILDREN’S SCHOOL BUILDING MORAL VALUES IN ADDITION TO SIMPLY PROVIDING EDUCATION. HOW INVOLVED CAN PARENTS BE AND HOW IS THE SCHOOL SUPPORTING THEIR BUSY LIFESTYLE?

All three schools have a very active PTA who organize events for children, staff and other parents. As we have a multi-national parent/student body, parents can often also feel unsettled when they move to London. New families are put in touch with buddies – other parents with the same nationality if possible – before they actually join the school to help them settle. There are many social events/clubs for parents such as coffee mornings, and there is also a London exploration Society led by one of our teachers where they are able to explore places of interest in London.Close links are established between home and school in relation to student learning, especially in the primary schools.

HOW ARE PUPILS ASSESSED?

The most important thing we do in the classroom is to conduct ongoing assessment. We find out where are students are in their learning and move them on from that point. All good teachers do this, but it is especially relevant in an international school where children arrive from all different types of schools and in different stages of their learning. In Primary Years, students’ progress is assessed by their teachers as they go alongand by the use of pre-assessments to find out what they already know. The curriculum is then adapted based on their prior knowledge. Parents are informed of progress regularly via parent/teacher conferences, student conferences and termly reports. There are also summative assessments to evaluate student learnings at the end of each unit of inquiry.

In Middle Years, students have end of year exams.

In the Diploma Programme pupils have full school reports, parent teacher conferences, interim grades and mock exam results in Grade 12.

HOW IS TECHNOLOGY USED TO ENHANCING THE LEARNING PROCESS?

In Primary Years all students are given iPads or laptops depending on age and in Middle and Diploma Years all students are given laptops. We use Google Apps for education and Google drive for collaborative working. We use aprogramme called SeeSaw in Early Childhood to keep parents informed on their child’progress. We also have 3D printers andlasercut printers which are used for design.

ARE NON-ACADEMIC ENGAGEMENTS AND ACHIEVEMENTS ENCOURAGED AND SUPPORTED?

Yes, we very much encourage and support non-academic engagements. Extra-Curricular activities are very much part of the IB programme and especially encouraged in the Diploma Years where pupils have to take CAS (CommunityAction, Service)in order to complete the programme.

WHAT MAKES SOUTHBANK INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL’S SYSTEM THE BETTER CHOICE FOR LONDON PARENTS WHO ARE CONSIDERING PRIVATE EDUCATION?

We offer the IB curriculum at Southbank, a system for those who want to give their children the best possible start in life, both academically and personally. It is a curriculum that encourages its students to do more than blindly accept what is put in front of them. It nurtures within its students their natural capacity to question, to inquire, to be inquisitive and to think independently, critically and creatively.

At Southbank, we teach children more than how to simply pass an exam. We give students the skills to answer life’s questions, not just those written on an examination paper for them to forget about upon leaving the examination hall. We are focused on high academic attainment while also having a truly holistic approach to learning.

The IB is also the perfect solution to many difficulties faced by the many International families in London. Having been originally established as a direct response to what is often a severe lack of flexibility in varying school systems around the world, the IB is now recognised in more than 100 countries around the world.

Unlike a lot of UK based systems, the IB does not focus on one single world view or history within its subjects, but is instead much more globally minded, thus creating more globally rounded and internationally minded students.

![south-bank-international](https://res.cloudinary.com/dpgowkqsr/image/upload/v1611946280/Picture3_9f0007ffe3.jpg)

I should have also mentioned that I’ve pretty much been in school my entire life, including when we had Lucas four years ago as I was about to finalize my Legal Practice Course. This educational process was longer for me not because I was undecided about which path to take, but because I began my educational journey within a rather strict system which didn’t offer much guidance as to options I could consider at key points in time.

I remember vividly the day I arrived at my boarding school, the smile on my parents’ faces in that contrasting sheer discipline air that emanated from every brick in the surrounding fence. Designed to instill leadership qualities into every pupil and reward high-achievers alone, it was very much different from my earlier experience of education into a state funded school. At that point in my life I knew the importance of finding for my children a school to deliver the best of both my pre-and-post boarding experiences.

On the other hand, Southbank International seems to be a different type of school which nurtures children’s early interests and curiosity by making London its classroom. Children are exposed to a healthy variety of city events and historical places, from galleries, museums and landmarks. The school itself is very different, no uniform, and children are able to move freely inside their classrooms.

There are three campuses in the heart of London attended by more than 700 students aged from 3 to 19. Southbank Kensington, the one we’ve seen, is aimed for 3–11-year-olds, within walking distance to Notting Hill Gate tube station and the very first school in the UK authorised to offer all three International Baccalaureate program. At one point during our site visit at Southbank Kensington, we entered one of the classrooms where there was written: ‘Learning another language is like becoming another person’, Haruki Murakami. Rather appropriate considering there’s also 70 nationalities attending and staff members who have already lived and worked overseas.

[Here](https://southbank.org)’s more on what the school program has to offer.


I recently read a very interesting article about state funded schools adapting...

Today’s education, tomorrow’s fine generation


What I have learnt from my first born experience is that you don’t need thousands of baby products to survive a trip to the playground, but if you don’t tick everything on the very essentials list, well, you’re in trouble. A clever changing bag is one of those mandatory essentials organiser which could make parents’ life much easier.

A while ago someone from the lovely Pacapod team wrote to me asking if I was willing to review a changing bag for dads. I was intrigued as it has been marketed as the only baby bag that brings together three bags which function as one – ‘a changer bag, cool bag and a beautiful handbag’.

![paca-pod-changing-bag](https://res.cloudinary.com/dpgowkqsr/image/upload/v1611946222/IMG_6177_dcbc9c0060.jpg)

But let’s see if that’s the case.

I’ve chosen the sleek Gladstone bag which you can easily see in photos below (a rather rainy winter day well spent running around the maze gardens of the Ham House in Richmond).

![paca-pod-changing-bag](https://res.cloudinary.com/dpgowkqsr/image/upload/v1611946226/IMG_6761_81da1e9e56.jpg)

The bag comes with a Feeder Pod meant to keep food and bottles insulated, which we don’t make much use of, not because it’s not a great feature, but because we’re not using any bottles for the baby. Yet. Then, here comes the Changer Pod which is so cleverly designed to help you out in those change-the-nappy-NOW emergencies. The changer pod is also great for changing rooms when dining out for example, as you have everything in one place without having to check five pockets for the nappy cream.

Keeping the two hygienically apart is one of the best features I find great about the PacaPod.

![paca-pod-changing-bag](https://res.cloudinary.com/dpgowkqsr/image/upload/v1611946221/IMG_6163_b4031e4418.jpg)

As soon as the pods are removed you would be amazed to see how much space you’re left with so you can use the bag on its own. When Aly @allmumstalk doesn’t borrow it (or forgets to return it for days), I am taking it to the office as my laptop fits in perfectly. However, despite being a brilliant changing bag, I must add that this bag of mine had already been on at least 10 flights in the three months and it makes THE BEST TRAVEL BAG for a dad.

I’ve noticed that being more organised while having all essentials in place means I’m faster at executing the emergency baby jobs (any new parent knows changing and feeding are just a few tasks among the many others so one must be prepared).

![paca-pod-changing-bag](https://res.cloudinary.com/dpgowkqsr/image/upload/v1611946222/IMG_6760_bdc3e99609.jpg)

In a nutshell, this is the bag all dads would appreciate for its cleverness and versatility.

![paca-pod-changing-bag](https://res.cloudinary.com/dpgowkqsr/image/upload/v1611944525/3_C895_DB_7_55_C9_43_E9_8_BC_6_A73_D1_B3_EA_690_5a83961b3c.jpg)

The Pacapod bag has been gifted, all opinions are mine. After extended research in the bags for dads area and comparing it to a couple I have previously owned, I must say this one is a keeper.


What I have learnt from my first born experience is that you don’t need thousands of...

Dads with bags - PacaPod


It’s been 11 years since Aly and I were both dreamy students with lots of plans and no clue about how far we’d get together. We didn’t even think about co-sleeping dramas, teething, grumpy babies, mushy pea stains, witty poo talks or nursing pads. Neddless to say I never thought I’d become the man spending weeks researching on baby carriers and changing bags (now I’ve got two baby changing bags!). But here I am now talking buggy life and eco diapers…

![jord-wooden-watch](https://res.cloudinary.com/dpgowkqsr/image/upload/v1611944940/EA_3645_A2_62_C1_4_D29_A84_F_B2_A6937321_CB_461ef588fd.jpg)

Nonetheless, I’ve learnt that making time for ourselves to take it all in is so important. Celebrating your other half aka tribe co-sleeper survivor with a bit of shopping for a Valentine’s Day gift feels nice. It’s true, the no anniversary, out of the blue gifts are always winners, but when it comes to festive seasons I’ve been learning from my mistakes: Do. Not. Show. Up. Empty. Handed! Ever! Despite her saying ‘darling, you shouldn’t have!’

![jord-wooden-watch](https://res.cloudinary.com/dpgowkqsr/image/upload/v1611947905/375340_C3_D9_E3_4778_8995_EEE_1_CB_9253_E2_2f2c224a9d.jpg)

This year I went for a more unique gift which would surely tick more boxes on her wish list: great accessory (when I actually understand women’s fashion), smart, sustainable, green because it’s actually made of wood, therefore the choice was rather easy: this pink [watch](https://www.woodwatches.com/series/frankie/purpleheart-and-plum/#alldadstalk). She’s already wearing it which is a good sign I might have nailed another great present (yet it’s only fair as not long ago she surprised me with a wooden watch from the Jord men’s [shop](https://www.woodwatches.com/shop/men/#alldadstalk), so I can’t honestly say the inspiration wasn’t there).

For more browsing inspiration, here’s the women’s [shop](https://www.woodwatches.com/shop/women/#alldadstalk).

![jord-wooden-watch](https://res.cloudinary.com/dpgowkqsr/image/upload/v1611944546/9_BD_9725_B_6537_49_D8_9_EFB_49_A338_D8_C7_AC_5094c5a426.jpg)

Nonetheless the wooden watch was still very much a surprise from the moment she opened the beautiful presentation wooden box to the moment I put the watch onto her wrist. The only downsize is that Amelie doesn’t seem to understand that this watch doesn’t fall into any teething jewellery categories!

![jord-wooden-watch](https://res.cloudinary.com/dpgowkqsr/image/upload/v1611944516/2_BAB_4717_D609_4348_A4_AB_18_CC_22056_DD_5_5a8c2a2071.jpg)

COMPETITION

Today you can enter to win a $100 credit to use towards a Jord wooden watch of choice by entering this [GIVEAWAY](https://www.woodwatches.com/g/alldadstalk). Regardless of the outcome, every participant who doesn’t win still goes home with a special 10% off discount code by entering.

The contest will close February 11th at 11:59pm. Both the $100 and the 10% off codes will expire on 2/25.

Good luck!

![jord-wooden-watch](https://res.cloudinary.com/dpgowkqsr/image/upload/v1611947804/B8_EA_67_B8_79_A0_4_AD_6_A549_5_FB_63638_DD_3_A_e30f7841e8.jpg)

Photography credit [Anna Pawleta Photography](https://www.annapawleta.com/)

Wooden Wrist Watch


It’s been 11 years since Aly and I were both dreamy students with lots of plans and no...

Our time is NOW


If you’re still shopping for your kid’s Christmas gift, here’s a review that might help you decide easier, without having to undergo endless trips to the overcrowded Disney shops and way too busy malls.

It was rather easy for us to decide on a gift for our toddler as he had continuously been asking for a pair of pedals to attach to his little balance bike. As if that’s the right solution to start peddling! But transitioning a toddler to a pedal bike can be a bit challenging, therefore for the past couple of months I went through an entire process of researching and testing the best available options. We went to a few bike shops and tried on several bikes, but I’ve also spent a few good hours each week in the online shopping world reading thousands of reviews and hoping to find the one that clicks. And then I found it: one bike they said it grows with your child.

![littlebig bikes](https://res.cloudinary.com/dpgowkqsr/image/upload/v1611944526/5_C3_C19_CF_6273_452_D_AA_33_4_F9_E8_B493_F64_baa2efba65.jpg)

As intrigued as I was, I started checking out feedback from people who already purchased one. But despite of being a young company, lots of happy parents’ praising words pushed me to make contact.

![littlebig bikes](https://res.cloudinary.com/dpgowkqsr/image/upload/v1611944645/55_ACCCA_8_1_EC_0_4_DD_9_807_B_10_CEE_584_F954_165ad05aa1.jpg)

Simon Evans of Irish company LittleBig Bikes is an engineer and cycling enthusiast who developed a great concept of a balance bike designed to grow with your child after spending time working in a bike shop. Here he observed how parents always came back getting a new bike each time for different ages.

![littlebig bikes](https://res.cloudinary.com/dpgowkqsr/image/upload/v1611944654/451_BE_870_D534_4_EFF_ACDE_094943_AEFFFA_c2ead81eb6.jpg)

My other half Aly [@allmumstalk](http://allmumstalk.com/product-reviews/ride-with-them/) already wrote a reviewing piece on the same bike (we are that thrilled about it!) and mentioned that our toddler’s first balance bike was a good start, yet the lack of inflatable wheels made the ride uncomfortable once he was really confident in gaining speed. The LittleBig new bike came with proper air tyres and that’s only one of the main reasons I wish I knew about from the beginning. It also took me less than 20 minutes to put it together while I have to say it’s rather easy to change it from balance mode to pedals.

![littlebig bikes](https://res.cloudinary.com/dpgowkqsr/image/upload/v1611944645/55_ACCCA_8_1_EC_0_4_DD_9_807_B_10_CEE_584_F954_165ad05aa1.jpg)

The bikes are designed & hand assembled in Ireland and they come with a sleek design and a great price attached if you consider the approximate 5 years investment. Therefore, that’s my number one choice for a Christmas present if you haven’t covered the bike chapter yet. It’s one way to make the tiny humans’ confidence grow while they become more independent and eventually, in my case, better riders than their own dad…

![littlebig bikes](https://res.cloudinary.com/dpgowkqsr/image/upload/v1611944516/0_AE_19_A70_D246_49_FE_B0_A1_11229011513_D_11d3225074.jpg)

Next pit stop: Christmas tree shopping!

![littlebig bikes](https://res.cloudinary.com/dpgowkqsr/image/upload/v1611944645/52_D42_C00_6059_42_D4_955_E_1_FC_10_C65_F783_d29e1116bf.jpg)


If you’re still shopping for your kid’s Christmas gift, here’s a review...

It’s beginning to look a lot like... LittleBig Bikes


I’m not sure I’ve shared much about my busy lifestyle and (according to my wife boring) work as a Finance lawyer, unless you’ve been following my journey as a working dad on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/alldadstalk/). You’d know then that as soon as I escape the intense board meetings or way-too-long conference calls and my need-more-colour office walls (no matter how cool my view there on the 21st floor is) I rush back home to a fireball 3 year toddler, a third trimester bun in the oven and my cravings fighter wife. I often wonder if they really miss spending their evenings with me or if they miss my exceptional cooking skills more.

![hello-fresh](https://res.cloudinary.com/dpgowkqsr/image/upload/v1611944968/IMG_4787_79113d8e58.jpg)

My better half and I have a verbal agreement in place (binding under the laws of England & Wales) I’m proud to say I haven’t broken (yet): twice a week dinner is on me – and the very strict contract conditions are: it must NOT be take away as that’s considered cheating, but a genuine fresh home cooked treat which must start at a decent hour so the toddler could also get involved in the cooking process.

As I’m rather proud of my Latin origin, I tend to embrace Mediterranean cuisine quite often. No matter how relaxing and fun cooking usually is for me after a long day at the office, I’m constantly on the lookout for inspiration: I’ve been told king prawn linguine (my signature dish) is not the ideal dinner serving twice a week, hence I should work harder on my recipe variety.

![hello-fresh](https://res.cloudinary.com/dpgowkqsr/image/upload/v1611946217/IMG_4789_6d0d0b8c09.jpg)

That’s why I got excited when I was asked to try the newest tool [HelloFresh](https://www.hellofresh.co.uk/tasty/) has recently created, the [Flavour Generator](http://blog.hellofresh.co.uk/flavour-generator/). Lucky me, this week I’ve had the chance to have a little play with it. It’s meant to help anyone discover new and exciting recipes based on favourite cuisines and tastes.

I know we are all busy individuals with long working hours and tiny humans waiting for us at home, but this takes pretty much 10 seconds and you could then be on your way home, stopping by corner shop getting all the ingredients you need, so that’s your shopping list simplified!

![hello-fresh](https://res.cloudinary.com/dpgowkqsr/image/upload/v1611946217/IMG_4788_27736f2f62.jpg)

That’s exactly what I did this week, I aimed for Italian food with a spicy touch, HelloFresh generated my flavour and I got a brilliant recipe. I went with the [pan fried sea bass with golden saffron mash, piquant chorizo salsa and sugar snap peas](https://www.hellofresh.co.uk/recipes/pan-fried-sea-bass-wk20-premium-58fa2005171c586db0457983?utm_campaign=flavourgen). It was the very first option I was offered and the one that I eventually chose (it’s like they’re reading your mind!), but you can play around with flavours depending on your cravings and choose from various recipes.

![hello-fresh](https://res.cloudinary.com/dpgowkqsr/image/upload/v1611944967/IMG_4785_7c67339b3e.jpg)

We tried Hello Fresh recipe boxes several times before, however that was to some extent a convenience exercise. This time round, HelloFresh’s mission is to make meal planning simple, dinners exciting, varied and foremost delicious and I think they’ve done a pretty good job once more.

Happy the toddler joined in and helped us with this 30 minute straightforward recipe. It was fun following 6 easy steps and the result was even better than my clumsy plate presentation. the following gallery speaks for itself…

Follow HelloFresh on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/hellofreshuk/) for more cooking ideas. Surprise your better half with a creative freshly cooked meal 😉


I’m not sure I’ve shared much about my busy lifestyle and - according to my wife...

Dads in the Kitchen - the Hello Fresh Flavour Generator


> WE HAVE SO MUCH TIME AND SO LITTLE TO DO. STRIKE THAT, REVERSE IT!

Trying to remember who said that, yet, gosh, don’t you feel this way when you watch a child turning into a completely different one with the passing years? As owner of a three year old toddler, it feels we had been having several different children in one every time we go down the memory lane and dare to touch the photo albums and phone folders. From sweet babyhood to the terrible two (which were terrible indeed, we’re both still trying to recover!) and now going through the threenager’s stage, I can honestly confess I’ve personally had to make huge efforts to embrace the harsh tantrums and white nights. But it’s all worth it when you remind yourself to freeze time and watch them go…

![daniel-wellington](https://res.cloudinary.com/dpgowkqsr/image/upload/v1611947551/img_1648_b3b80f778d.jpg)

Here’s a timeless Daniel Wellington piece, my daily reminder to slow down, enjoy the ride and spend more time with the ones that count. I’ve partnered up with this cool brand to offer our readers a brilliant discount of 15% off everything on the website by using the code ALLDADSTALK15 (valid until the 15th of July 2017). In my 20s I’ve been a watch collector and constant researcher because let’s be honest, there’s very little accessorising men can play with. Except for my wedding band I got in my early 30s, there’s nothing much I could use to compliment an outfit (not a huge fan of bracelets or rings) so a good watch will always do the trick.

![daniel-wellington](https://res.cloudinary.com/dpgowkqsr/image/upload/v1611944955/img_1645_d3b35f6b4a.jpg)

I chose to feature a Daniel Wellington watch because legend says they aren’t released until they are completely perfect (in true Scandinavian style). The brand prides itself on being fashion forward and innovative, yet simplicity seems to be the focus and this is where they got me engaged. From colourful to leather straps, there’s plenty of options for you to choose from (founded in and operating from Sweden, within three years Daniel Wellington managed to get selling watches across 144 countries and all continents). I have partnered with Daniel Wellington in order for our readers to get a cheeky 15% discount on their timeless timepieces. It’s so simple, just enter the code ALLDADSTALK15 when you buy your chosen watch to receive 15% off the price.

![daniel-wellington](https://res.cloudinary.com/dpgowkqsr/image/upload/v1611944955/img_1646_f52a853978.jpg)

The harder part of the whole process will be deciding which one to get. So which one is yours?

![daniel-wellington](https://res.cloudinary.com/dpgowkqsr/image/upload/v1611944951/img_1638_61dd260b13.jpg)

Follow Daniel Wellington on Instagram for more styles.


We have so much time and so little to do ... wait, strike that, reverse it...

Timing Childhood - a Daniel Wellington watch review


> LET’S BE HONEST – FOR ALL THE INNOVATION OF THE INTERNET AGE, PARENTING IS STILL ONE OF THE TOUGHEST GIGS AROUND - says [Bubble](http://joinbubble.com/we-are-bubble/) and I can’t agree more.

As a new and first time dad, I’ve learnt the hard way that the life of a parent is mainly organised chaos (if you’re lucky enough to learn how to organise it!). I’ve also learnt that one should not miss the spontaneity of the right moment to unwind and take it all in: the noise, the sore muscle, the eye circle, the tantrum, the cuddle, the first tooth. The white nights...

![babysitting-bubble-004.jpg](https://res.cloudinary.com/dpgowkqsr/image/upload/v1611946284/toys_1903273_1280_51da1e8cc7.jpg)

But as a young couple sharing a tiny human, we have been both struggling to find out how to make time for each other and most importantly, how to make the most of each other, because truth being told, we have also been discovering the heavy weight of ‘now’ in parenthood and the dangers of procrastinating the ‘us only time’! Of course, the child is now part of a heavily altered routine and more steam, focussed attention and even (here goes the cheesiness!) our full hearts and souls are now much needed to be shared. Our bodies too – because rocking a baby to sleep for over two hours numbs your arms (and will power), and those ribs that suffer massively during cosleeping with a drunk octopus called A TODDLER, are getting tired (stole the comparison from AllMumsTalk, shhh).

![babysitting-bubble](https://res.cloudinary.com/dpgowkqsr/image/upload/v1611944788/characters_1853286_1280_b868403794.jpg)

Nevertheless dating was never easy for us, even before parenthood took over, we both had a tendency of over working and starting several projects on our own, so adding a baby to the equation was indeed ... rather brave. I started on the wrong foot by missing all her doctor’s appointments and scans during pregnancy, forget about scary antenatal appointments talking dad’s role and birth support – I didn’t even know I had to have an opinion on how a baby should be, well, delivered into the world! I was instead coming home late and she was sleeping, mornings were hectic, arguments and frustrations were at their peak. We had blamed it on our lack of parenthood knowledge and different, higher expectations; the new arrival was becoming increasingly overwhelming, and still it was a wakeup call – THE wake up call, one that we clearly heard after his first birthday when we understood life is more than sharing parental duties, more than work, commuting, or scheduling weekend trips well in advance and pretty much everything else we knew before. It was high time we started dating like all parents should: more often, less planning, more action.

![babysitting-bubble](https://res.cloudinary.com/dpgowkqsr/image/upload/v1611944785/cat_woman_1115933_960_720_dd7df7518f.jpg)

Do or do not, there is no try – keeping Yoda’s wisdom in mind is rather a clever way to remind ourselves we need to disconnect, recharge batteries and keep the couple’s sparkle on. Aiming for a good night out and long uninterrupted adult conversations may not be enough, but it’s now pretty much on our weekly list. We sometimes fail at catching up with each other because of glorious nursery bugs that the toddler is generously sharing with all of us (grand perks of parenthood), but most often we make it happen. Living in London, far away from both our families means we are constantly finding ourselves stuck to a tricky routine ruled by our worries around a child, while we tend to make excuses not to make dating any easier. But that’s not what Yoda would do ... So date or date not, there is no try; when excuses start building up, pick up the phone looking for help – nothing wrong in sourcing a friend or a trusted professional sitter to come and save the day ... or date!

![babysitting-bubble](https://res.cloudinary.com/dpgowkqsr/image/upload/v1611946282/star_wars_1176168_1280_2c7b073e7d.jpg)

This article has been published in partnership with Bubble, you can download the brilliant app [here](http://joinbubble.com/). The app connects parents and sitters to each other via mutual friends and contacts. This allows parents to tap into the trusted sitters their friends already know and use. Bubble is mainly London-centric at the moment, but it will be rolling out to the rest of the UK soon, so watch this space!

![justin-and-lucas-in-the-air](/images/justin-and-lucas-in-the-air.webp)

Both I, here at AllDadsTalk, and [Bubble](http://joinbubble.com/) team would love to hear how you manage to find time with your other half. Share your stories on Twitter and Instagram using the hashtag #datelikeaparent. Read more reviews and engage with other users on Bubble’s [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/bubble.babysitting/?hc_ref=SEARCH&fref=nf) page. We’ll share all of your posts!


As a new and first time dad, I’ve learnt the hard way that the life of a parent is mainly...