In this episode, we have the pleasure of speaking with Keisha Ehigie, the visionary behind Imagine Me Stories, an award-winning monthly subscription box dedicated to bringing high-quality Black children's literature and empowering Black history activities to young readers. Keisha launched Imagine Me Stories in 2019 during her maternity leave, inspired by her desire to create a world where every child can see themselves in the stories they read. Her dream is clear and compelling: that all children have access to diverse stories that reflect their realities and open windows into other experiences.

The Power of Representation in Literature
Keisha shares how reading The Concubine by Elechi Amadi was a transformative experience that allowed her to see her reality reflected in a book. She talks about the joy and empowerment that comes from finding relatable characters and narratives, and how this inspired her to ensure more children can experience this joy.

Barriers in the Publishing Industry
We dive into the challenges Black writers face in today’s publishing landscape and explore why diverse voices and stories are still often underrepresented. Keisha provides insights into the systemic barriers in publishing and how initiatives like Imagine Me Stories are helping to bridge that gap by providing platforms for Black authors and stories.

The Importance of Diverse Books for All Children in schools
Keisha’s mission goes beyond serving Black children alone; she is working with schools to emphasizes the importance of all children having access to a range of experiences and perspectives.

Research with Manchester University: Representation and Self-Esteem in Children
We dive into the research partnership between Imagine Me Stories and Manchester University, exploring the critical link between representation in books and children’s self-esteem.

https://imaginemestories.com/

Insta: @imaginemestories

Twitter: @imaginemebox
Love and hugs
Alice and Margaret

In this episode, we puzzle over more than just life’s mysteries – we’re getting into literal puzzles! We’re celebrating Black History Month with a very special guest, Patrick Adom, co-founder of Very Puzzled. He talks about his business partner... who just happens to be his daughter (how’s that for keeping it in the family?). Patrick gives us the inside scoop on turning a bright idea into a thriving business that’s now proudly sold in Hamleys, John Lewis, Waterstones and other independent stores. Not bad for someone who admits he didn’t always apply himself in school! Patrick shares stories of growing up in Ghana, moving to the UK, and the wild ride of launching his company. Spoiler: the first sale was as satisfying as the final piece of a jigsaw! He talks about the importance of leaving a legacy and showing the world the beauty of African culture in a fun and engaging way—one puzzle piece at a time. If you’ve ever wondered whether it’s possible to combine education and fun without your kids realizing they’re learning, Patrick has the answer. Very Puzzled’s vibrant, detailed jigsaw puzzles are designed to teach children (and adults, let’s be honest) about African landmarks and culture, sparking curiosity and making family bonding time an educational adventure. Perfect for parents, teachers, or anyone who loves a challenge! We also dive into some important questions, like: What’s harder, - Starting a business or pulling an all-nighter? - Ghanaian or Nigerian Jollof—which one reigns supreme? - And, how can a jigsaw puzzle change the way people view Africa? Tune in to hear Patrick's thoughts on entrepreneurship, legacy, and the next big steps for Very Puzzled. Spoiler alert: he's just getting started! P.S. Don't forget to grab your puzzle and make family game night a little more "very puzzled"! Also, use the discount code: PAAN20 at https://verypuzzled.com/pages/about-us for 20% off these amazing products!! Follow Patrick @veryverypuzzled on Instagram https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pulling-an-all-nighter/id1762059348 Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/pulling-an-all-nighter

It's that magical time of year again when parents swap suncream for sewing name tags and gear up for the ultimate endurance challenge – back to school! In this episode, we're diving into the chaos that is drop-off and pick-up during the never-ending roadworks saga. Seriously, who knew getting to school could double as an obstacle course?
We'll chat about the "joy" of dropping off multiple kids at different schools, with timing so tight you'd think we're training for the Olympics. Then there’s the bank-breaking cost of school uniforms – because apparently, a polyester blazer is now worth more than gold. For those who love a bargain, we've got tales from the second-hand uniform hustle, where finding the right size feels like winning the lottery. And of course, the frustration of kids immediately losing said uniform once it's finally in their possession. Can we just attach GPS trackers to everything?
We'll also cover the exhaustingly slow three-week reception transition that feels longer than a presidential term. Who knew starting school could be stretched out longer than the Hobbit trilogy?
By now, we just hope all the kids are finally settled, the parents have survived, and that everyone is clutching onto their sanity by a thread. But fear not – October half-term is only three and a half weeks away, so start your countdown now!
Grab your coffee (or something stronger), sit back, and join us as we laugh, cry, and navigate the madness of back-to-school season!
Check out @melb_lifeandhome for after school routine
Department for Education: Working together to improve school
attendance:
https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/66bf300da44f1c4c23e5bd1b/Working_together_to_improve_school_attendance_-_August_2024.pdf
Watch or listen to our full review on Apple Podcast or Spotify AFTER the main show finishes on BBC
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pulling-an-all-nighter/id1762059348
Spotify:
https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/pulling-an-all-nighter
Love and hugs
Alice and Margaret
#backtoschool #endofsummerholidays #newterm #schooltraffic #schoolroadworks #survivingnewterm

This week, we're diving into two of the most chaotic TV shows around – Celebrity Race Across the World and Love is Blind UK. Will the celebs survive the adventure? Will love conquer all?
In Celebrity Race Across the World, we’ve got some seriously competitive duos battling it out:
Jeff Brazier and his son Freddy – We’re predicting either a winning duo or a classic father-son fallout over map-reading!
Kola Bokinni and his cousin Mary Ellen – Will they have the stamina or end up regretting every minute?
Kelly Brook and her husband Jeremy – Are they here for the journey or just fancying an extended holiday
Scott Mills and his husband Sam (fiancé at the time!) – Will they race to the finish or to the nearest spa?
Who do we think will win? Listen to our wild predictions on who will come out on top and who might need a plane ticket home....
Meanwhile, in Love is Blind, the real question is: Is love actually blind? Find out if Alice would actually date someone she’s never seen, and why Margaret has very strong opinions on why she’d never, ever do the social experiment (seriously, you don’t want to miss this rant!).
Catch Celebrity Race Across the World on BBC iPlayer and Love is Blind on Netflix. Then join us for the laughs, the drama, and who’s winning, losing, and just trying to survive!
Love Alice & Margaret x

What a night! We snagged last-minute tickets (literally 24 hours before the show!), got the dads to look after the kids (love you both!), and headed to BBC Elstree Studios for the glitziest evening of our lives. ✨💃🕺
We had a magical moment meeting Johannes, who is not only an absolute legend but also smells like a dream – honestly, someone bottle that scent! 🪩💐 And Motsi? STUNNING! She waved at us. 👑
Tess and Claudia? Absolutely fabulous. Tess sparkled, and Claudia had us in stitches all night. They were both so professional and didn't need 100 takes. 😄🎤
We still have the pack of Haribo that was thrown into the audience. Never eating them!!!!
Things wrapped up after 11pm, and we missed the last train (because of course we did!) so, naturally, we Ubered from Elstree to South London (ouch! 💸) and rolled into bed at 2am and breastfed our babies. Was it worth it? ABSOLUTELY.
We can’t spill all the tea, but tune in to find out our top 4 and bottom 4 (👀 you won’t believe our picks!). Catch all the glitter and drama when the show airs. 💫
Good luck to the celebrities and dancers – you’ve got this! 💪
P.S. BBC, Strictly team, thank you for the night of a lifetime! You all work so hard and kept us smiling Love Alice & Margaret

We managed to bag some last-minute tickets (we’re still buzzing!!) through the BBC's Shows and Tours https://www.bbc.co.uk/showsandtours/ and were right there in the audience for the glamorous, sparkly, and occasionally spray-tanned chaos that is Strictly! 😍💃🕺
🔍 Look out for us – we’re the ones dressed like glitter balls and looking hot, loud clapping, eyes glued to the glitterball and trying not to get kicked out for being super fans. 🍫✨
And guess what? We totally know who's paired with who...but our lips are sealed. 🤐
Tune in on Saturday 17th September at 7:20 PM on BBC One to see it all unfold! You won’t want to miss the sequins, sass, and a few unexpected surprises! 🌟🪩
Watch or listen to our full review on Apple Podcast or Spotify AFTER the main show finishes on BBC
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pulling-an-all-nighter/id1762059348
Spotify:
https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/pulling-an-all-nighter
#BBC #strictlycomedancing2024 #strictly

Wondering how to get tickets to the Oasis reunion show, well today we give you our thoughts on the ticket sales issues.

We ask each other who we would want to see in concert and we bet you cant guess who we chose…..

🎤 Best Bands – The Pop Parade You Didn't Know You Needed!
We’re talking top-tier bands, from those with questionable harmonies to today’s bangers. Ultimate reunions. Whether you're a Backstreet Boys fan, One Directioner, A1, 3T, Cleopatra, Big Brovaz, Five, Another Level, Steps or still holding a candle for *NSYNC's reunion tour, we break down the band blueprint

🎶 Take That Concert – Still Got It, Lads!
Take That returned, and boy, were they amazing! We review their concert in May 2024 where Gary Barlow hit those high notes, Mark Owen danced like it’s 1995, and Howard added some flavour. Find out why this Take That gig had us dancing, reminiscing, and catching vibes.

🗣 Concert Chat – The Good, The Bad & The Loud
Got concert FOMO? Never fear! Our concert chat covers it all….

P.S. It’s the last few days of the summer holidays and the kids were determined to join the convo……

Tune in, Turn up the Volume, and Join the Ultimate Concert Chatterfest!

Love Ezreal, Xavian, Exyn, Alice & Margaret xxxx

Today’s episode: the hilariously chaotic first day of arrival, registration, and dinner with kids at Center Parcs.
Get ready for a journey of unexpected twists, kiddie meltdowns, and parental survival tips.
The pre-departure chaos: Alice's car broke down while trying to leave home.
The car ride: The epic battle over naps and snacks
The classic "Are we there yet?" marathon.
Arrival at Center Parcs:
Trying to find the correct parking spot (closes to the Lodge or exit - its never where you think it is....)
The family’s dramatic entrance, with kids scattering in all directions
Phone battery dying and sitting in the car for two hours to charge
The check-in:
Babbies screaming in the car
Children trying to pee in a cup in the car
Navigating Center parcs with a map that feels more like a treasure hunt.
Reaching the cabin and unpacking chaos:
Finding the essentials (where are the toothbrushes?!).
Kids’ instant need to explore every inch of the cabin.
Dinner Time - A Comedy of Errors
The debate over walking or taking two children on bikes, one scooter and two buggies!
We also share our top tips!
Ellas kitchen
Don't forget to share your own funny family vacation stories.
Join us for day two: Tackling the first full day of activities
Thanks for joining our day one journey through Center Parcs.
Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share with fellow parents needing a laugh.
You can now listen to us on Apple Podcast Connect
Follow us on Spotify for Podcast and YouTube for more behind-the-scenes antics and updates.
Love Alice, Zariah, Exyn & Margaret xx