Just a quick post to say that our Become a Mumpreneur Course that we launched in Jan 2011 is having one more intake of members before it closes forever.

This course offers the most training for the least investment of all our courses and has been really well received. If you want to join be very quick as it closes at 9pm Friday 3rd Feb.

Watch the video about what’s included here >> Become a Mumpreneur

This post is for you if you want to find out how an eBook can make a real difference to your business, because I’m going to tell you how one started my business career.

In 2007, I was a stay at home mum. Due to illness I was keen to find ways to make money from home, so I tried out an eBay business. I spotted an information product about how to make money online, which was all about the value of information and how if you had the right knowledge you could package this and sell it via the internet. This was big news for me and I decided to give it a try.

I set about writing an eBook on pregnancy and the newborn phase. I’d just had my own daughter and felt I had knowledge to share! I included everything I’d learned including; what to pack for hospital, the best place to find maternity clothes, what you did/didn’t need for a newborn. The finished product was just a Word document. I created my own cover and sold my ‘eBook’ via eBay. As the orders came in I would manually email the book to the buyer. I was smart enough to include links to my parenting blog in both the book and the listings so I had the added bonus of driving traffic to my blog. That first eBook didn’t generate a huge amount of money but it taught me a lot about eBooks and the potential they had to become an income for me.

When I look back, there is so much I would do differently, but this little eBook was the start of something much bigger. Since then selling my specialist knowledge has been the crux of my business success.

For two years I focused on my blog before I was ready to launch my next eBook. I’d got much smarter about choosing a niche topic. This time I created on how to start and maintain a successful parenting blog, called ‘The Mum Blogger eBook’. The document was a PDF, it had a professional cover design, there was no competition for the niche and I sold it for a much higher price. I had far more followers I could tell about the book, and it’s been a passive income for me for the past three years. It still sells now in its new form, A Guide to Successful Blogging.

Beyond money my blogging eBook has given me credibility in my niche and demonstrated my expertise. It has been the foundation that has allowed me to go on and create eCourses, speak at events and do consulting. I’ve also just co-authored two further print books which will be published this year, by two different publishing houses.

So, that’s how eBooks were a critical part of my journey to a successful business. eBooks remain a valuable part of our business. They are available all the time and that evens out our cashflow. They are an affordable way to offer help to clients who want to taste our advice for the first time or who are on a limited budget.

If you think that you’d like to make eBooks a valuable part of your business success, join From Knowledge to Profit. You have just two days left to discover just how much this course could help you build your profile and boost your business, just like it did for me.

Last week I was invited to the annual Toy Fair in London to check out what was new at Playmobil.

There were loads of toy buyers and exhibitors and a great buzz about the place. Playmobil had a large enslosure upstairs with all the upcoming products for 2012 on display.

Here are my highlights;

Future Planet

Designed for older kids – 7-12yrs – I could quite happily sit and play future planet myself. It’s based on a war of sorts between the ‘E-Rangers’ and the ‘Darksters’ set in the year 2113. They’re fighting for control of red energy crystals which basically power all the lights, vehicles etc.. It’s all very futuristic and ‘mad scientist’! I love the concept and the way everything works of the energy crystals, the headquarters even has a generator that works off solar panel – shine a torch to get the generator going! Very clever, a sure hit when it’s released in July this year


Summer Sports Playmobil

There was a definite Olympic flavour at the Toy Fair this year and Playmobil had their own range on display. The Summer Sports series features a number of Olympic eventers including gymnasts, weightlifters and swimmer.

Harbour Playmobil

For Erin’s age this is my favourite of the ‘New for 2012′ stuff. The harbour range includes a ferry, a catamaran, a cafe and more… I particular like how they double as bath toys. This range is out in February and aimed at 4-10yrs age range – I’m predicting that it will be very popular!

Football Frenzy!

Out in June football frenzy is a complete football stadium that folds neatly into a case. Complete with footballers with moving legs, goalies and footballs this little game is going to be really popular and I can see the kids being pushed aside by their over competitive dads!

So that’s what’s coming from Playmobil in 2012 – I can’t wait!

What’s your business ambition right now? Do you want to raise your business profile? Do you want to attract more customers? Put your prices up? Or make more profit? Or have you simply always wanted to write a book?

If any of those goals are ringing true for you join the From Knowledge to Profit course.

In this new course we’re giving a small group of people the chance to work with us to write and publish an eBook over the course of 3 months.

It is an amazing opportunity as we’re bringing together our experience in creating books and eBooks, plus we’ve bought a couple of our favourite experts on board to ensure that the book you create is outstanding.

What’s more, we know that writing is a competitive field. This course doesn’t just help you complete your book, we also tell you how to write a book that SELLS.

If this sounds interesting, follow the link to discover more about the From Knowledge to Profit course. But act fast: you can only sign up in the next 7 days, and we start work at the end of next week!

Last time I did things to do with kids in Wales, this time I’m back up the other end with things to do with kids in Scotland.

If you need accommodation in Scotland take a look at cottages in Scotland.

1. Glasgow Science Centre

A great day out especially if you have children of different ages as there’s something for everyone.

2. National Museum of Scotland, Edinburgh

Newly refurbished, the National Museum is well worth a visit. It’s situated just off the Royal Mile close to Edinburgh Castle. Make a day of it, there’s plenty to see and do over the five levels – and it’s free.

3. Royal Yacht Brittania

If you’re a bit of a Royalist then the Royal Yacht is fascinating. Even if you’re not the kids will love seeing where the Queen and staff slept while aboard.

4. Museum of Childhood, Royal Mile

Another free museum, the Museum of Childhood is on the Royal Mile so combine with the National Museum for a fully free day out. The kids will love seeing all the toys from olden days through to the current gadgets they love today.

5. Ski-ing/Snowboarding

Visit the dry slope at Hillend, just outside Edinburgh. Or if you’re feeling brave go and find the real stuff in Aviemore or Glenshee

6. Ratho Climbing Centre

Fancy trying rock climbing? Try out your skills at Ratho climbing centre where you can climb real and artificial rock faces.

7. Scotland’s Museum of Transport

We haven’t visited yet but they’ve spent £85m refurbishing it so it’s definitely on the agenda.

8. Strathclyde Country Park

It’s not Alton Towers but it still makes for a good day out if the weather’s fine.

9. Winter Wonderland at Christmas

Edinburgh’s Christmas and Hogmanay Festival is always growing and this year’s Winter Wonderland was the biggest yet. I know most cities have a Winter Wonderland but the back drop of Edinburgh Castle adds a little something special to Edinburgh’s!

10. Fringe Festival in Summer

A lot of people think the Fringe Festival is just for adults – actually there’s tons for kids and even if you just go up to the Royal Mile and see the street acts it’s a great afternoon out. If you can afford Tattoo tickets then go for it – perfect for older kids!

This post is brought to you by Holiday Rentals

At the beginning of the year I decided I’d spend a bit more time talking about my work this year as it’s become a much bigger part of my life since Erin’s been at school.

So what have I been up to?

Well I’ve just finished running a Social Media Skills that Sells course. The format was quite different to anything I’ve done before and it went down really well, the feedback has been excellent so very pleased with that.

Our next eCourse is due to start at the end of the month – if you’re interested in creating an eBook check it out.

We’ve also added to our free resources with the Business Promotions Basic course – we opened this just a couple of weeks ago and already over 200 people have signed up!

I have had an article featured on the Tesco Magazine website – New Year, New Career

And finally this blog was included in Sainsbury’s list of Fabulous Family Blogs. Yay!

Finding a gift for the lady in your life can be hard, so here is our top ten gifts for her, no matter what the occasion.

1. Personalised gifts are a great way to show you have taken the time to think about the gift and biscuits with a personal message iced on the top not only show you have put thought into the gift, but are a nice treat too! Biscuiteers Personalised Love Heart Biscuits are a great choice, not only do they look beautiful, as they are hand crafted they will taste divine!
2. Scent is a powerful thing, it can transport you back to a fond memory or remind you of someone. The Heavenly Scents Gift Box is an excellent present for any occasion. It includes shower gel, hand lotion and a scented candle, all presented in a beautiful gift box.
3. Anniversary gifts are very important, no matter whether it marks a first date or a wedding anniversary, it is a reminder of an important date so a special gift is required. Champagne to toast the occasion is a great alternative to flowers and Louis Roederer Champagne and Ice Bucket is a beautiful way to celebrate any anniversary.
4. If you do like champagne, the Luxury Champagne Gift Basket is another wonderful gift idea that will light up any loved one’s day. Included in the basket is a beautiful rose plant, box of chocolates and fine champagne.
5. Balloons will lift a special someone’s day, so why not send her an I Love You Balloon Bouquet  to mark a special occasion. They will definitely make an impact.
6. Hampers make a great gift idea as they can contain some extra special treats. The Hamper for Her is full of extra special treats, from a beautiful bottle of wine to biscuits, preserves and chocolate covered peanuts.
7. Cupcake are exceptionally popular as a present for a special occasion as they can be shared. Personalised ones will make an even bigger impact and the Personalised Love Heart Cupcakes would also make a beautiful Valentine’s day gift.
8. A nice alternative gift is the Divine Elegance Gift Box which includes a reed diffuser, award-winning elderflower vodka liquor, dark chocolate and a beautiful linen napkin. All to lift someone’s day.
9. Pampering the lady in your life is a great way to get in her good books and the A Little Lift Gift Box is the perfect gift for pampering. It includes handmade Belgium chocolates, a bath preparation made from Himalayan green tea and rice starch, cashmere eye mask, hand lotion and a pewter leather journal. Sheer luxury.
10. Birthday gifts for her can sometimes be hard to choose due to the large variety available, but one present every lady loves to receive are flowers. A beautiful bouquet delivered direct to her door will make her special day, extra special! My favorite is the Vanda Orchid and Lily Hand Tied bouquet as lilies are my favorite flower.

I hope this helps you choose a gift for a special lady in your life!

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We’re lucky to have family to stay with in Wales when we visit, but check out these cottages in Wales if you don’t have a base.

And when you’re there this is what I recommend.

1. Dan yr Ogof Caves

We took Erin to the caves last year. The ticket includes a number of other attractions which includes a small petting off so a great place to take a picnic and stay all day.

2. LC2

LC2 is the newly refurbished leisure centre in Swansea. The waterpark is a must visit, you can learn to indoor surf! Perfect for a rainy day which you have plenty of in Wales!

3. Techniquest

I visted Techniquest when it was first opened, which was, ummm..well quite a lot of years ago. If you’re kids like science and pressing buttons and seeing how things work then definitely pay a visit.

4. Tenby

Tenby’s a lovely seaside town, perfect for a pub lunch and a wander.

5. Plantasia

I have fond memories of visiting Plantasia, which is an indoor botanical centre with plants from around the world. They also have fish, reptiles and insects.

6. Mumbles

You can’t beat a wander around the seaside town of Mumbles if the weather’s nice. Wander up to the pier past the crazy golf but don’t forget to walk all the way back and far enough to get a Joe’s ice cream. Delish!

7. See The Swans Play

Go and see the newly promoted premiership team play at their home ground The Liberty Stadium. Only premiership side in Wales, sorry Cardiff.

8. The Gower Heritage Centre

There’s always lots on to do at the Gower heritage centre including daily puppet shows, crafts and pottery.

9. Margam Park

If you’re into outdoor pursuits then visit Margam Park where they have tons of stuff including a Go Ape! Highwire Adventure

10. Treasure Trails

Never done this one but was recommended on Twitter – Treasure Trails – over 900 trails around the UK!

This post is brought to you by Owners Direct

Is it me or did the Christmas holidays drag on a bit? Don’t get me wrong they were good but…well…maybe a week too long!

We had a great time though, we had Christmas Day with my family and then the evening and New Year’s Day with Alex’s family. Unfortunately Alex had to work quite a bit but we made the best of the time he was off, taking Erin to a Scottish Ballet workshop on one of the days.

Erin also spent time with both the grandparents and I learned to do a bit of this.

By the time it was Back to School I think we were both ready for it. The week before we were sent some new school uniform to review from Trutex. I’ve tried everywhere when it comes to school uniform – Sainsbury’s, Marks and Spencer, Tesco, Next, Matalan…. Tesco and Sainsbury’s are the best in my opinion. Marks and Spencer failed spectacularly when their cardigans went all misshapen in the wash, tsk.

When I first opened the package from Trutex my first impressions of the skirt and pinafore were that they were a bit thin. On further inspection the material actually looks to be quite durable, and it’s soft with a bit of stretch which makes it all really comfy. We like comfy here. The sweaters and cardigans are also very thick, perfect for a Scottish Winter.

Overall we were very pleased…even Erin was thrilled to be going back to school as you can see from the picture. A definite ‘Back to School’ face that one!

I haven’t spoken much about my work and I plan to change that a bit in 2012 because it has become a much bigger part of how I spend time, alongside Uni still. Work wise I’m really excited about 2012, we’ve come up with some great new products for business women that I’m really enthusiastic about and we’ve pared down some of our other projects to focus on just training for the moment.

We have a fantastic range of free resources for 2012 that I’d like to share with you. These short courses will give you a taster of what we do and help you develop and build a business that will fit around your family.

Mumpreneur in a Month is a great free eCourse which is delivered direct to your inbox, ready for whenever you’re ready to read and take action. You will receive an email into your inbox everyday for 30 days, starting from helping you find a business idea all the way through to starting your family friendly business and becoming a mumpreneur.

7 days to make money online is another of ACE Inspires fantastic free eCourses. This one is delivered to you over 7 days, 1 a day and is full of great ideas of how t make money online. From a few extra pounds to a passive income, these informative emails will help you achieve whatever goals you set yourself.

How to create and sell eBooks is an interesting free video helping you to join the many thousands of people who have already written an eBook. This free 25 minute video will give you a great overall guide from choosing a topic, writing the eBook, publishing it, marketing and selling it.

The Mum Blogger eCourse starts right from the basics of blogging and helps you start and build a successful mum blog. The eCourse runs over 35 weeks and will show you everything you need to know. Great for complete beginners. Now includes video tutorials!