One of the things that caught my eye is that Dethlac is said to be completely safe around children and pets once it's dried. That's a huge plus for households with little ones or furry friends. Once you spray it, it dries to a hard, clear film that keeps working for months. Apparently, it even holds up when it rains (for those garden ants) or if you wash the surface with detergents (think kitchen floors). You can use it indoors and outdoors on any firm, non-absorbent surface like door frames (not UPVC though, take note!), skirting boards, shelves, concrete, and patios. They even say you can get rid of flying ants by spraying surfaces before they take off.
My Honest Review of the Slim & Secure Shuffle Wallet
For ages, I've been lugging around a pretty standard wallet, you know the type – gets bulky, hard to find the right card, and let's be honest, not exactly a style statement. I was on the hunt for something different, something that streamlined my everyday carry, and that's when I stumbled upon the Shuffle Wallet.
Right off the bat, the packaging was impressive – always a good sign, right? And the wallet itself? Wow. The build quality feels seriously top-notch. I went for the Neon Black aluminum finish because, well, all my tech stuff is black, so it just fits. But they also have some other cool colors in aluminum like Polar Ice, Gunmetal, and Diesel Green, plus titanium options in Raw and Burnt Titanium if you're feeling fancy.
What really grabbed my attention is the deck-of-cards opening mechanism. Seriously, it's so satisfying! With a quick flick, all your cards are displayed neatly, making it a breeze to grab the one you need. No more frantic rummaging! And don't worry about your cards flying out – the quick-release is secure. I’ve been using it for over two weeks now, and they haven’t budged unless I want them to. It holds up to six cards snugly.
Well, right next door to that lovely village and Lochwinnoch Nature Reserve is the Castle Semple Country Park, and let me tell you, it's a proper summer location. Think of it as your starting point for exploring the whole Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park. It's got everything you could want – easy access to the water for all sorts of outdoor fun, cracking walks, loads of wildlife to spot, and some lovely woods to wander through.
So, what can you actually do there? Plenty!
First off, you can stretch your legs on the Semple Trail. They've even got suggested walking routes dotted around if you fancy a bit of guidance. Just click here to have a wee look.
If you're a fan of two wheels, it's perfect for a visit by bicycle. The Centre is right on the Sustrans traffic-free cycle route 7 that runs all the way from Glasgow to Irvine. And if you don't have your own bike, no worries – you can hire one from RT Cycles. They've even got bike parking with maintenance stations at the Visitor Centre, which is handy. You can find some suggested cycle routes too.
Feeling peckish or just fancy a break? The Visitor Centre Café is the place to be. You can enjoy a lovely coffee or an ice cream while taking in the cracking view. Trust me, it's a good spot to just sit and chill.
But that's not all! They've also got:
- Outdoor Activity Group Sessions and Courses – but you need to book these in advance, so get your name down if you're keen on sailing, kayaking, archery, and all that good stuff.
- The Semple Estate Historic Map & Exhibition – give them a ring beforehand to make sure you can get access if you're specifically going to see this.
- Loads of Resident Clubs if you're into getting more involved, like the Castle Semple Rowing Club, Castle Semple Sailing Club, West Coast Paddlers Kayaking, Clyde Windsurfing & SUP, St Winnoch Angling Club, and Ride 63 Community Cycling Club.
- You can even get Fishing Permits from the Visitor Centre if you fancy a bit of coarse fishing (that's non-migratory fish) in Castle Semple Loch.
The car park, walks, and trails are open all day, every day. So you can wander to your heart's content whenever you fancy.
The Castle Semple Café is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm in the summer and 10 am to 4 pm in the winter, so you can always get your caffeine fix and some tasty treats.
The Outdoor Toilets are open daily from 9 am to 4 pm. Handy to know!
Just to give you the full picture, this Castle Semple place is one of a few gems within the larger Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park. It's right in Lochwinnoch, Renfrewshire, practically next door to National Cycle Route 7 and just a short walk from Lochwinnoch Train Station.
They even have a Ranger Service that puts on family-friendly events and volunteer programs throughout the year. And if you're feeling adventurous, their Outdoor Activity team is top-notch and can guide you through things like sailing, kayaking, canoeing, powerboating, archery – the works.
What's really brilliant is that the Centre is fully accessible to everyone. It was even Scotland's first Centre of Excellence for disability sailing back in 2012.
How to locate Castle Semple Country Park?
Castle Semple Visitor Centre,
Lochlip Road,
Lochwinnoch,
Renfrewshire,
PA12 4EA
And for accessibility, Castle Semple has ramps leading into the main Visitor Centre & Café, and it's a short, level walk from the car park. You can also get to the loch and watersports via their pontoon hoist, but it's best to give them a bell to check when it's available.
The toilets all have step-free access, and the disabled cubicles have wide doors and handrails.
And the staff? Especially the outdoor activities team, which are really experienced in helping folks with disabilities get out on the water.
So there you have it! Castle Semple Country Park sounds like a fantastic place to spend a day. I and my partner spent some time having a meal at the park close to the river. We also enjoyed the view and wanted to explore even more, but it was getting a bit chilly, and I only picked two stones at this location. When I share photos of our trip to Lochwinnoch Nature Reserve, you will know why, and you will have a more fun read about our adventure. I will take you through the whole day we spent at Lochwinnoch and after reading, you will be surprised at how the day ended.
Just back from a breathtaking trip to Loch Lomond, and I had the perfect companions for exploring its tranquil beauty: the Sweaty Betty Get Set 2-in-1 Multi-Train Shorts and their empowering "Wear the Damn Shorts" Campaign Polo. Let's dive into why these pieces have become my new go-to for active adventures and beyond.
Sweaty Betty: More Than Just Activewear
For those unfamiliar, Sweaty Betty is a leading global activewear and lifestyle brand for women. They champion the power of movement and empower women through fitness and beyond. What I love about Sweaty Betty is their commitment to creating high-performance clothing that doesn't compromise on style or comfort. They cater to all your gym and swim needs, offering a fantastic range including:
- Leggings: From their iconic Power Leggings to supportive running tights.
- Sports Bras: Offering various levels of support for every activity.
- Tops: From breathable tanks to cosy hoodies.
- Swimwear: Stylish and functional bikinis and one-pieces.
- Outerwear: Jackets and layers to keep you warm during outdoor workouts.
- Accessories: Including bags, socks, and headbands.
Their ethos shines through in their "Wear the Damn Shorts" campaign polo. It's more than just a top; it's a message: "Your body is uniquely yours, and it deserves love, respect, and care at every stage. You are more than a number on a scale or a reflection in the mirror, your worth is defined by your kindness, strength, and spirit. Celebrate yourself just as you are today." This powerful message truly resonates and makes wearing this polo feel like a statement of self-acceptance.
Sweaty Betty Get Set 2-in-1 Multi-Train Shorts: My Loch Lomond Companion
My main reason for wanting the 2-in-1 Multi-Train Shorts was the crucial need for phone storage while running. If you're like me, juggling your phone can be a real pain. These shorts have solved that problem perfectly.
Here's what I thought:
- Fit & Comfort: The fit is fantastic. The sweat-wicking inner short with 4-way stretch feels snug and supportive without any restriction. The loose outer layer provides great coverage and freedom of movement. The soft and comfy waistband is a definite plus, staying put without digging in.
- Material: The material is slightly thicker than I would ideally like for peak summer running, but it feels durable and high-quality, suggesting they'll hold up well to regular workouts.
- Pockets: The side slip pockets on the inner short are exactly what I needed for my phone. It stays secure and doesn't bounce around while I'm on the move.
- Style: I'm genuinely a fan of the Black Peony Print. It's much more interesting than plain black and adds a touch of personality to my workout gear. The outer short inseam of 6.5cm and inner short inseam of 10cm offer a flattering and practical length.
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| Photo by Quang Nguyen Vinh |
When I was a teenager, there was a boy who liked me. He invited me to go swimming in a popular river in the community we lived in. Now, that river was a place my parents warned us never to go near. My mum was especially strict about it. She used to say the river didn’t like non-indigenes, and there had been quite a few deaths connected to it. I remember she even warned my brother seriously when he once mentioned going there. I think they even announced in church for parents to tell their children to stay away.
Interestingly, that same river was where I got baptized—though in a different area, the sand dredging site that’s more controlled. But still, this boy kept asking, and one day when my parents were out, I followed him—and a few others—to the river.
Now that I think of it, neither of us knew how to swim. We were young and just wanted to have fun, but looking back now, it was such a dangerous thing to do. The part of the river we went to was near an abandoned school. We just got in the water and stayed there for a while. I even went near a narrow part at one point, not knowing how risky it was. Thank God nothing happened.
Afterward, I rushed home, took my bath, applied some cream, and acted like nothing had happened—because my mum could always tell when someone had been in the water. She’s from Rivers State, so she just had that sensitivity. She used to look at my brother and say, “You went to that river,” and she’d be really upset.
As for me, I never dipped my head, so my face stayed dry, no red eye, and looked normal. I didn’t even have proper swimwear—just regular clothes and a change of clothes. But what’s interesting is that even though I didn’t dip my head, whenever my mum came back, she would still look at me like she sensed something was off. She was that perceptive.
We did that three times—completely unsupervised. Looking back now, I know I didn’t act wisely at all. It was careless and dangerous.
So I just want to thank Him for His mercy and protection. Even when I was unaware, He was watching over me.
The Denim Factor: Versatility is Key
What makes these cargo pants particularly versatile is the denim fabric. Denim is a timeless staple, I think I have said this like a million times on the blog, hahaha. It can be dressed up or down, making these jeans a fantastic addition to any wardrobe. The wash is classic, providing a great foundation for various styling options.
My Styling Approach: High-Low Chic
For this look, I wanted to play with the high-low trend, pairing the casual utility of the cargo pants with more elevated pieces. Here's the breakdown:
- The Jeans: The star of the show. The KnowFashionStyle denim cargo jeans with their mid-waist, flare leg, and pocket button details. The fit is comfortable yet stylish, allowing for ease of movement while still looking put-together.
- The Sweater: I opted for a cozy, slightly oversized knit sweater. This adds a touch of softness and warmth, balancing the more structured feel of the denim. You could go for a chunky knit for a more relaxed vibe or a fitted sweater for a sleeker look. Trending sweater styles right now include textured knits, pastel shades, and interesting necklines. I was not in the mood to do much; most times when I feel this way, I just go for loose clothing.
- The Heels: This is where the "high" comes in. Pairing these cargo pants with high heels instantly elevates the look, making it more chic and unexpected. Pointed-toe pumps, strappy heels, or even heeled boots would work beautifully. This juxtaposition of casual bottoms with dressy footwear is a key trend we're seeing everywhere – it's all about that effortless cool-girl aesthetic. This heel is not particularly comfortable, but since I don't wear heels for extended periods, I'm fine with it.
Why This Outfit Works (and Why It's Trending):
- Embracing the Utility Trend: Cargo pants are undeniably back in a big way. Designers are showcasing them in various fabrics and silhouettes, and street style stars are rocking them with everything from sneakers to stilettos.
- The Power of Denim: Denim remains a fashion constant, and incorporating it into a trendy silhouette like cargo pants makes it feel fresh and modern.
- High-Low Styling: The contrast between the casual cargo pants and the sophisticated heels creates a visually interesting and fashion-forward look. This high-low mix is a major trend that allows for personal expression and versatility.
- Comfort Meets Style: This outfit manages to be both comfortable and stylish. The relaxed fit of the cargo pants and the cozy sweater ensure comfort, while the heels and the overall styling add a touch of glamour.
Largs is a seaside town on the Clyde coast, about 40 minutes from Glasgow. Its old Gaelic name means "the slopes." It’s a popular spot with a pier and takes pride in its Viking history, celebrated with a festival every September. The town is also historically significant as the site of the Battle of Largs in 1263, where the Scots faced the Norwegians.
1. Kelburn Castle and Estate
A popular attraction for children is the Secret Forest—a fairy tale-themed maze featuring a witch’s cottage and a giant’s castle. There are also the Adventure Course and Saloon play areas, equipped with wooden walkways, stepping stones, tunnels, swings, and a scramble net.
Kelburn’s stunning woodland glen has a network of winding trails to explore, with various creative surprises along the way. Reaching the top of the glen rewards visitors with impressive views across the Firth of Clyde to the Isle of Arran.
In 2007, Kelburn’s castle was painted in a unique style and is now recognized by author and designer Tristan Manco as one of the world’s top 10 examples of street art—comparable to the work of Banksy in Los Angeles and the Favela Morro da Providência in Rio de Janeiro.
The estate hosts events throughout the year, so it’s worth checking their website or social media for updates. Accommodation is available in the form of hillside yurts for glamping, and there are also areas for pitching tents if you prefer to bring your own.
Entry to the grounds, glen, and the Saloon and Adventure Course play areas is free, with a £5 parking charge per car. There is a separate £3 per person entry fee for the Secret Forest. Kelburn Estate and Country Centre is located off the A78, about two miles from Largs, between Largs and Fairlie, and there's a bus stop right outside the entrance. A general entrance fee applies to the estate, with reduced rates in the off-season. The estate also features several walking trails of varying lengths and difficulty. Ranger Services, including guided walks, are available. More details can be found on their website at www.kelburnestate.com. West Kilbride Golf Links borders the northern end of the beach in the vicinity.
The castle wasn’t open when we visited, but we were told that it would be open in June and July. We still enjoyed taking photos around the outside, even though we couldn’t go in.
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2. Waterfall and rock pool at Kelburn Castle and Estate
The Waterfall Pool, set within a striking sandstone grotto, is just 250 yards from the brightly painted castle. The waterfall felt almost unreal—I actually let out a lovely scream near it because I was so excited. It was such a beautiful sight to see in person. Thereafter, we wandered around the estate toward the castle area, strolled through the flower section, and then had some Easter bread before heading to Largs Yacht Haven.
