Technology: 0, Ladybird: 1

Meet Moron: my mental health emotional support robot.

Some people meditate. I’ve got a robot hoover with a hedgehog sticker. It does more for my sanity than yoga ever could.

For the past six months, our Dreame L40 Ultra – affectionately (and usually sarcastically) called Moron, has been quietly holding my mental health together. It’s not just about the clean floors, though they are a thing of beauty. It’s about the fleeting illusion of order in a house otherwise ruled by teenage lads and two Weimaraners with deeply inflated egos.

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The Morning Overture

Oh, morning. That sacred, hallowed time before the world, and indeed, before the humans of the house decide to collectively assault my ears. In our humble abode, there’s a hard and fast rule, carved into the very stone of our hearth: Thou Shalt Not Disturb Connie Before 7 AM. Unless, of course, the house is on fire or a tidal wave has just swept through the garden. These are, as you can imagine, rare occurrences.

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The Holiday Hustle: Reclaiming Your Sanity as a Working Parent

Christmas is a magical time filled with family, food, and festivities—but for parents, it can also be a whirlwind of planning, present-wrapping, and keeping kids entertained. Add work stress into the mix, and “relaxing” can feel like a distant dream.

But here’s the good news: with a bit of prep and a healthy dose of realism, you can unwind over the holiday season—even with kids around. Prioritizing downtime isn’t just about enjoying the present moment; it’s an investment in your future success. When you return to work refreshed and recharged, you’ll be better equipped to tackle challenges and perform at your best.

Let’s talk about practical ways to relax, switch off from work, and enjoy Christmas without chasing perfection (because perfect is exhausting, and frankly, not that fun).

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