Monthly Favourites - July 2026

It feels like we've been making the most of the summer holidays already, even though we've not done anything particularly extravagant. We've been swimming, explored Stourhead, found a brilliant new park and caught up with friends.

We've also spent loads of time outside just wandering around in nature, which is always one of my favourite ways to spend a day. One thing we've started doing recently is heading to the park after dinner. The children run off to play while I sit on a bench with my book for half an hour. It's honestly become one of my favourite parts of the day and makes me wish we'd started doing it years ago. Anyway, here are a few of the things we've been loving this month...

Creative Finds

STABILO Point 88 Fineliners

As a homeschooling mum (and someone with a slight stationery obsession), I can never have too many pens. I've been using the STABILO Point 88 Fineliners pretty much every day. They're lovely to write with, the colours are really bright, and they're great for everything from planning our homeschool week to colouring in or scribbling random notes.

STABILO swing cool Pastel Highlighters

I also really like the STABILO swing cool Pastel Highlighters. I much prefer pastel highlighters over the really bright neon ones because they don't completely take over the page.

STABILO BOSS ORIGINAL Highlighters I don't think these really need much of an introduction because pretty much everyone has used them at some point! They're reliable, comfortable to hold and perfect for highlighting lesson plans, recipes, books or whatever else needs organising. With another homeschool year creeping closer, they'll definitely be getting plenty of use.

STABILO stationery available from Amazon

Book Corner

Andy Day Dino Racers: The Jungle Cup & The Lava Cup

Written by Andy Day, the books are a bit like Hot Wheels meets dinosaurs. The stories follow a group of dinosaur racers as they compete in exciting races! I think these are ideal for children who are just starting to read chapter books. The chapters are nice and short, there's loads of colourful illustrations throughout, and there's always enough action to keep little readers interested. They're aimed at children aged 5+, and I can definitely see them being popular with any dinosaur-obsessed little ones! 

Available from Amazon

Gadget of the Month

Canal Toys Mini Speaker

The first thing that surprised me was just how tiny it is! It clips onto a backpack or bag with the little keyring attachment, so it's easy for children to carry around. It comes in a range of bright colours, lights up when it's switched on and connects to a phone or tablet via Bluetooth. Now, I'm not going to pretend it's going to rival a proper Bluetooth speaker because it won't. The sound quality is pretty basic, but then it only costs around £10 and it's really designed as a fun toy rather than a premium speaker. It's simple to use, portable and just a bit of fun. If you're looking for an affordable little gift or stocking filler for a younger child who loves music, I think it'd make a lovely choice.

Available from Amazon & good toy shops.

Summer Adventures

We've had quite a few lovely days out this month too. We spent a day at Stourhead, which is one of those places I never get tired of visiting. Every time we go it feels slightly different depending on the season, and it's such a lovely place for a wander. Also they've got lovely 'play sessions' on at the moment to make it extra fun for little ones. We've also discovered a new park, and the children absolutely loved it. It took a long walk through fields, past ponds, over rivers, spotting some foals along the way.

What I've Been Watching

I've watched a few films this month too. Weapons was definitely my favourite. It was creepy and weird, and that's my favourite kind of film. I also really liked Obsession and Send Help! We've also watched Get Away (with Nick Frost) and re-watched Behind Her Eyes (one of my favourite shows!)

What I'm Reading

I finally finished The Thursday Murder Club. I really enjoyed it and completely understand why so many people like it! The characters were brilliant. Then I immediately went and watched the Netflix film, because of course I did. I've now started reading The House on Cold Hill by Peter James. Peter James is probably my favourite author, although I do wish he'd write more creepy stories instead of so many detective books. The House on Cold Hill is exactly my sort of book.

Favourite Moments

Honestly, my favourite moments this month haven't been the big days out. They've been lying on a picnic mat, reading while the children play. Swimming together, finding a new place to explore, catching up with friends, getting outside whenever we can.

  Hope you've had a lovely July!

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