Is Social Media Affecting Your Mental Health? Guest blog
Is Social Media Affecting Your Mental Health? 2018
There is no denying it social media has changed the face of parenting as we know it and can affect your mental health. On one hand, we now have a support network of like-minded parents and a wealth of knowledge an the tips of our fingers.
On the other hand we compare ourselves to others and constantly feel as though we not living up to the Instagram glitterati’s standards.
It can make us feel low and vulnerable we can easily feel as though we are under attack as alongside the rise of social media came the birth of the online troll.
Many of us choose to put ourselves and parenting abilities out there for all to see in the digital age of ‘sharenting’.
But, is social media affecting you?
Are you beginning to withdraw, spend hours scrolling through feeds and feeling overwhelming failure wash over you because you are not at that event or party, you don’t get #gifted and your still at home in your PJ’s counting down the hours to bedtime.
If you took a photo of a family day out where you are all smiling and looking as though you are having a great time you would normally upload this photo onto social media. That photo for all to see shows you on a family day out where you are all happy.
It doesn’t show the stress of getting everyone into the car, the tantrum of not being able to watch the I PAD or the argument you and your partner had over where to go for lunch. It doesn’t show the baby screaming for half an hour before they finally went to sleep, or running around trying to find a toilet because the toddler has had an accident.
It is important to take stock and step back at times to gain some perspective. If social media is beginning to affect your mental health and mood then you need to re-evaluate your time on there.
That photo on your feed making you feel like a bad parent? That’s a snapshot, it’s not the whole picture as it were and sometimes social media lies. The perfect wholesome parent or celebrity body that is being pushed down our throats isn’t healthy and unrealistic but something we see every day.
Social Media can empower you, connect you with others and educate and raise awareness of issues like never before, but it can also be damaging to your mental health as well.
Here are our top tips for keeping the balance of social media
- Take a break – we get in a habit of constantly checking Instagram or Facebook as soon as we wake up or before we to bed. We feel as though we are missing something, or perhaps if we are not ‘present’ on there we will be forgotten about. Take a break for a few days or even a week, it will still be there when you go back. If you cannot take a complete break, begin by reducing your time.
- If you are constantly comparing yourself to certain accounts and it is making you feel low, then unfollow them. Keep your feed full of positive accounts with those who are likeminded, who you enjoy talking to and who you enjoy seeing.
- Do you get annoyed with your partner always on there phone in the evenings? Are your children trying to get your attention but your busy scrolling? Put your phone down and be present. See what difference it is by being fully present watching a film, or playing in the park with the kids rather than only half concentrating and getting annoyed when your trying to do too much at once.
- Have a think about how much you truly want to share, what do you want out of it. Is it just a personal account for fun? Then keep that in mind, don’t get hung up on the number of likes. Likes/ comments are not a validation of you as a person or a parent. Just because you might not have 1000 likes per photo doesn’t mean your not as good as those who do. If you have social media for business and feel bogged down perhaps now is the time to outsource.
- Remember social media does not define you as a person or as a parent it has the ability to make you feel amazing or like you thought you have hit rock bottom. Make sure you don’t let it affect your mental health by following some of our tips.
When you’re feeling lonely and stuck in the house with a new baby or ill child, social media can be a lifeline it can connect you with others who can support you, provide you with tips or just provide some virtual support. It can be a savior by connecting you with other local parents, from social media they can turn into lifelong friends.
Be cautious and sparing with social media, don’t let it dictate your mood or day instead use it as an extension and remember whether you are an amazing parent with or without your Instagram account.
Vicki Cockerill
Guest blogger - Our 20 weeks scan
Guest blogger - Our 20 weeks baby scan norwich 2018
Our 20 week scan baby scan, another opportunity to see our beautiful growing baby, we’re already more in Love then we ever could have imagined. Seeing our baby’s little hand almost wave at us whilst having a yawn was amazing to see. Since having our scan i can now feel kicks and movements, i think i could feel smaller versions of this before but i didn’t quite realise how big my baby was, i thought i could just feel gas… oops sorry baby. Baby enjoys cold drinks and sweet treats so i have a lot of those to keep baby entertained.
So did we find out?... We didn’t! But it was hard not to have a sneaky peek.
So now it’s time to look into pregnancy classes, my midwife recommended for us to book onto Birth and Babies for my antenatal and I've had other recommendations for Hypnobirthing. I’m very excited to start Hypnobirthing, i feel this is the only way i could possibly get through labour! I’ve also signed onto Pregnancy Yoga to help with my posture, to help strengthen my back muscles and for pure relaxation.
Since I found out i was pregnant I've suffered with immense back pain, (standing up all day with my profession sure doesn’t help either) so I've started physiotherapy at the Jenny Lind department in hope i can figure a way to fix the pain…
I’m really enjoying my pregnancy journey but I'm slightly struggling with the HEAT! It’s so hot! I shouldn’t complain really but I'm assuming I'm not the only baby mumma trying to avoid sunshine like a vampire. The table fan is my new best friend! Like how my “BB HUG ME’ (pregnancy pillow) is my new ‘boyfriend’.
So after my baby scan Norwich, it's now for my next Midwife appointment!
check out Chelsea's other blogs here :)
10 Norfolk Parenting Instagram Accounts to Follow
10 Norfolk Parenting Instagram Accounts to Follow 2018
We parents love a bit of time scrolling through the ‘Gram don’t we? Vicki is back blogging what Norfolk Parenting Instagram Accounts to follow...
If you have a bad day you are a few taps away from receiving a virtual gin from someone else going through the same thing, and to see a photo someone else’s child planking face down in Morrison’s, makes us all feel like we aren’t going through this parenting malarkey alone.
We all know about the big parent bloggers and Instagram powerhouses but did you know there were some amazing local Instagram accounts too?
Read on for 10 of Norfolk's parenting Instagram accounts to follow! By Vicki aka NICU Mum
@jess_wilkins_photography
First on our Instagram accounts list is of course Jess's! Think sleepy newborns that will make you broody, beautiful maternity shoots, smiley toddlers, and the perfect way to keep up to date with all the latest projects and packages on offer! It really is a beautifully visual account.
@wifeofawigwearer
This Instagram account will have you laughing into your fish fingers. Sally White really does know how to put a spoof spin on many a parental situation that will have you laughing out loud on the bus home. She also brings you relatable posts about politics and feminism that will leave you wanting more. Check out her Gruffalo parody it is one not to be missed!
@muffinandpuffinmarketing
You know those flat lays you’ve always wanted to master? Or how to nail the hands around the coffee cup? Our next Norfolk parent Instagram account has it effortlessly in abundance that comes from the fabulous Sophie who can somehow make a bin bag look like a professional shoot. This account tracks the highs and lows of running a small business and balance bringing up a small human as well.
@harperslittlehelpers
This account is run by Harper’s mum and it documents Harper who has cerebral palsy and is trying to raise £80,000 to get to America for life-changing surgery. This Norfolking parent account will leave you in awe at the bravery and determination of Harper and her family.
@wegotthissometimes
If you need some inspiration for a child-free night out, some morning motivational quotes or the chance to see some of your gram’ heroes then this parenting Instagram account is for you. Run by Emma, this account sees local parents being brought together and empowered by the power of social media.
@astoryfromdad @astroyfrommum
These two Norfolk parenting accounts come as a buy one get one free! Husband and wife duo depicting parent life with their first child Willow. From the ups and downs of sleep training to nursery settling in sessions, Jodie and American Tim are sharing the realities of parenthood via the squares.
@shoutoutsouthnorfolk
This is an Instagram account with a difference. It sees Katie traveling around our fair region and giving us inspiration on where to go with the fam, and the secret hidden gems of Norfolk. Her beautiful blog and photos make you want to jump in the car and head out straight away!
@theolucamummy
This account is a must follow for anyone who loves beautiful flowers, interiors and outfit inspiration. Mum of 2 boys and (8 hens!) this is a stunning account to follow and one that will certainly brighten up your feed!
@documentingthedrews
First time mum this is one Norfolk parenting Instagram account to follow if you want to learn more about breastfeeding with cmpa, cloth nappies and coconscious parenting as well as the usual hilarities of weaning and day to day parenting!
@triplet_dad_of_4
The last entry on our Instagram accounts is one dad documenting life with his triplet girls, and 2-year-old son. He regularly confesses he cant quite tell them apart and it features some adorable photos of the new born triplets and the chaos of parenting them!
So, that was our 10 Norfolk parenting Instagram accounts to follow, but we don’t want this to be an exclusive list.
We would love to hear your favourite local parent accounts to follow too!
Vicki
http://confessionsofanicumum.blogspot.com/
https://www.instagram.com/vickicockerill/
Top 5 indoor activities for children when it’s hot
Top 5 indoor activities for children when it’s hot 2018
Summer has well and truly arrived here we round up some indoor activities for children when it’s hot.
With this ongoing heatwave, you may hear the undeniable sound of parents of young children everywhere groan! As much as it is nice to see the sun finally it just isn’t that fun for your little people.
They are hot, bothered and their sleep patterns are now all over the place with it being too light and too hot. If you are pregnant and already have a toddler you are probably finding it more and more difficult to explain why you are the one occupying the paddling pool more than your child!
You know to avoid the direct midday sun from 11-3, sun cream every hour, hats and lots of water. Not everyone has a lot of shade in their garden and even if you do it can still just feel too hot, and the children aren’t the only ones having a meltdown!
But, really the only way to truly protect your littles’ from getting too hot and bothered is to keep them inside and to get creative! Another afternoon in front of C Beebies doesn’t seem that appealing, does it?
Here are our top 5 indoor activities for children to keep them cool, and amused during the day when it just gets a bit too hot for you and them.
Bring outside, indoors!
If you have the room make some space and bring some of the favourite garden toys indoors! This is the first top 5 indoor activity for children. A small toddler slide is great, or a pop-up tent/tunnel and the children will have all the fun of outside, indoors in the cool! You can sit back on the sofa with the fan and enjoy a well-deserved ice cream!
Car Mat
Car mats are great and one of the top 5 indoor activities for children while it is hot. There are lots of different types of car mats which will keep you a little happy. If you don’t have a mat you can easily make your own track with some masking tape and the best bit is you can change it as much as you want!
Indoor Cinema
It can be hard sitting indoors when you know everyone is out in beer gardens, BBQ’s, beaches etc but it doesn’t have to mean you don’t have fun too. One of the top indoor activities for children is to close the curtains (great at keeping a room cool), grab the snacks and favourite film and pretend you are in the cinema! You could even make some slushies just like the real thing from the comfort of your sofa!
Did someone say cake?
One of the all-time top 5 indoor activities for children is baking, but an afternoon in front of a hot oven in this heat sounds like torture! Have a look for some recipes that don’t require baking, no bake cheesecakes, smoothies, and even homemade ice lollies are all winners and will keep everyone cool and happy!
Games and Messy Play
There are many pre school games available that will keep everyone occupied for an afternoon. There are also some classics you can do such as hide and seek, or depending on how brave your feeling you could explore the arts and crafts cupboard! Games and messy play are one of the top 5 indoor activities for children.
Do you have any tips or activities to keep children amused indoors when it’s hot?
We would love to hear them!
Vicki Cockerill
Wanting to book a shoot? get in touch.
Top 5 local gifts for New Dads
Top 5 local gifts for New Dads 2018
It can be that poor old dad does get a bit left out when it comes to new gifts when you welcome a new baby, with the focus on mum and baby.
There is no better way than marking the important milestone of becoming a new dad and making him feel special as well with one of our top 5 local gifts for new dads available from our fair region of Norfolk.
1. The Dad Bag
Every new dad will need to get to grips with the new changing bag at some point, but many are very much geared to the ‘yummy mummy’, so why not get him his own stylish handheld dad bag for all of his new baby baggage from the fabulous The Night Feed which makes a top local gift for a new dad.
2. Family photo shoot
A great local gift for a new dad is to book them a newborn family photo shoot with their new bundle of joy. At Jess Wilkins Photography there are a number of shoots and packages on offer that cater to all members . They will treasure the photos and memories for a long time to come.
3. Norfolk Gin
Traditionally men would go down the pub to wet the babies head, why not carry on the tradition with our next top 5 local gifts for new dads and present the proud new father with locally distilled Norfolk Gin. We will join you too!
4. Personalised Gift from Doodlepots, Holt.
A great local gift for the new dad would be a baby foot/ handprint keepsake or what about a personalised commission of the whole family? You can paint them or ask a member of the Doodlepots team to lend their expertise and it makes a truly unique local gift for the new dad.
5 A gift voucher from the Norfolk Passport
This has a number of great local gifts, over night stays, gift vouchers, cookbooks and more from some of the most reputable eateries in Norfolk, why not purchase a gift voucher for the succulent The Pigs or Byford’s? There will be a local gift to suit any new dad and make him feel special.
How can you resist spoiling the sleep-deprived new dad with these top 5 local gifts for a new dad!
Vicki Cockerill is a NICU/ CHD Mum of two boys, a freelance blogger and social media adviser, Co-Founder of #knackeredandNorwich social club and maternal mental health advocate.
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Guest blogger - 17 weeks pregnant
Guest blogger - 17 weeks pregnant - we welcome back Chelsea and catch up on her pregnancy...
2018Wow! Time is going quickly read about my pregancy below!I'm now 17 weeks pregnant and It's so nice to feel more like my original self, no more ‘starvation’ feelings (when I had just finished my massive ham, cheese and pickle baguette for lunch) - still my ultimate craving! and the ‘sicky’ feeling has just about sloped off.My 16 week midwife appointment...I was really looking forward to this appointment as I knew I could hear my baby's heartbeat during this checkup. Hearing my baby's beautiful singing heartbeat for the first time was amazing. My whole body was filled with utter love and contentment mixed with relief that everything was going well.I’ve been a constant worrier the entire duration of my pregnancy so far, I'm loving every second of it but I want to make sure I'm not doing/eating anything that could jeopardize the health of my unborn child. I'm writing this blog on whilst on my last ‘couples’ holiday before we become a family, I was terrified about going through the airport security as I was always told they use X-ray scanners… THEY DON'T! I was unbelievably upset after explaining to security that I was pregnant and was told to go through anyway… but it was honestly fine, this is where my superhero husband comes back to calm me with soothing words and reassurance. I've turned into a total shadow of the person I was before, but I'm becoming a mum and I'm getting used to my motherly emotions.So… When do my weird cravings start?! I kinda like the idea of an obscure ‘must have’ and sending my husband out on errands to find a fix for my latest craze! That's what he's there for right?... jokes aside he's been my rock, he has done so for the past 11 years and it's become more apparent how lucky I am with him being so ‘cool’ about my mood swings, hanger pains and my new frustration at not being able to do the simplest of things.I now have the start of a beautiful little bump and I love showing it off! I've actually quite enjoyed searching for ‘maternity’ wear as I enjoy the challenge and satisfaction of finding something fashionable and flattering (which is difficult when looking at maternity wear, you literally go from topshop fashion to middle aged fashion). I still want to feel ‘in’ with the world whilst parading my bump proudly and elegantly.
I've never wanted to wish the year away before, but November can't come quick enough! I can't wait and I'm definitely a summer lover.So… 20 week scan in 3 weeks time! The question is do we find out?!....An adventure has already begun, why not ride the train and find out who you have been waiting for at the end of the ‘tunnel’.
Best Family Beach Days Out In Norfolk
Best Family Beach Days Out In Norfolk 2018
There is nothing better than packing up the car with the kid’s swimming costumes, pack of 12 fruit shoots and 500 swimming nappies ready for a day out at the beach.
But, we know as parents our little ones get fed up very quickly and you need to have a plan to keep you from that earth shattering meltdown, so here are the best family beach days out in Norfolk.
Old Hunstanton/ Hunstanton
This stunning stretch of beach runs from Old Hunstanton all the way to the new town. From experience Old Hunstanton Beach tends to be quieter so park up on the cliff top and while away a morning making sandcastles. When the hanger cries get a bit too much take a stroll into the new town and you will find an array of cafés, restaurants, amusements, bowling alleys, Hunstanton Sea Life Centre and a fun fair! It has everything to keep every member of the family happy and that is why it is one of the best family beach days out in Norfolk.
Wells Next to Sea
The little members of your family will be excited to see the boats in the harbour, and take the mini train down to the beach at Wells Next To Sea. There is a shop and café as you walk onto the beach which means you can stock up on drinks, snacks and the all important bucket and spade! Don’t forget to pop into the amusements and grab an ice cream on your way home from one of the best family beach days out in Norfolk.
Great Yarmouth
Bring back all of the nostalgia of your childhood and pass it onto the next generation with a family beach day out at Great Yarmouth. From the horse drawn carriages, donkeys on the beach, Pleasure Beach and the smell of freshly made doughnuts in the air you will find it hard to beat and don’t forget a ride on the snails!
Horsey Beach
For a slightly different take on the normal family beach day out take a boat trip out to Horsey and spend some time taking in their resident seal population basking in the sun. You can sail back to shore and enjoy all of the fun of the seaside with this family beach day out in Norfolk.
West Runton
Feeling a little adventurous, them head to West Runton and try out a spot of surfing, for those less than inclined to do so you can go for a paddle and enjoy the sandy beach.There are always life guards present, so you know everyone is in safe hands on your family beach day out in Norfolk.
Cromer
This one really is an all round family pleaser, from a morning on the beach to a afternoon hike up to the lighthouse and perhaps an evening show you know there will be some sleepy heads in the car on your way home with this family beach day out in Norfolk.
Vicki Cockerill is a NICU/ CHD Mum of two boys, a freelance blogger and social media adviser, Co-Founder of #knackeredandNorwich social club and maternal mental health advocate.
To read my other blogs by Vicki, guest bloggers and my own blogs click here.
Thanks for reading Jess x
Things to do with Kids: Top 5 places to fruit pick in Norfolk
Top 5 places to PYO – Fruit picking Norfolk 2018
Picking your own fruit and veg is a great way to spend a sunny afternoon, who doesn’t love fruit picking in Norfolk. As well as giving you the chance to enjoy some of Norfolk’s best produce, it’s a great opportunity to teach your kids a little more about where their food comes from. To help you plan your fun day out, with the help of friends I’ve picked the top five favourite Fruit picking Norfolk spots for you to explore this summer.
- Blofield
At Blofield, you can pick your own strawberries and sweet pea flowers in early June and gorge on raspberries, blackberries, blueberries, tayberries, currants and sweet peas later in the summer. Located just to the southeast of Norwich, the farm is open for PYO Tuesday to Sunday throughout the picking season.
- Whitehouse Farm
My backdrop for family shoots this year , Whitehouse Farm has been owned by the same family for generations. The tools that decorate the walls were once used to work the land, and although machines have long since replaced manpower, they still add a nice decorative touch to the farm’s café. The cake is epic , and they have lovely shops to browse as well as fruit pick!
The strawberry season is due to start in mid-June. You can also pick up fresh cut meat in the award winning butchers and stop for a tasty cake in the onsite café.
- Hillfield Nursery and Farm shop
Hillfield Nursery offers a huge range of PYO fruit. As a result, the fruit picking season at the farm is long, with PYO available from May until September. Among the delicious delights on offer you’ll find rhubarb, gooseberries, strawberries, redcurrants, blackcurrants, raspberries, blackberries and over 200 types of apple among much more. There’s also a farm shop where you can pick up other local specialities.
- Fairgreen Farms
When asking around I found out about Fairgreen Farms & that they specialise in blueberries, so if this is your favourite summer fruit, you know where to go. The Fruit picking season begins in mid-July and should run until September. During this time the farm is open six days a week for PYO.
- The Tacons Farm Shop
The Tacons farm shop offers a fantastic choice of PYO fruit and veg. As well as classics like strawberries, you can also pick a range of other seasonal produce including onions and pumpkins. The farm is open daily for PYO throughout the season, giving you plenty of opportunities to get out and get active with the family. While you’re at the Tacons, visit the farm shop where you’ll find an excellent selection of other freshly picked fruit and veg from the surrounding fields as well as a choice of high quality local produce.
For more ideas on things to do in Norfolk, take a look around my blogs.
Jess
Top 5 private pools to hire around Norwich, Norfolk
Top 5 private pools to hire around Norwich - 2018
Sometimes going to a public pool with a young baby, or energetic toddler (or both!) doesn’t quite have the same appeal as booking a private pool. Being able to wrangle the children in and out of their swimming stuff on your own and then enjoying the pool all to yourselves does sound like the better option to us!
So, we have looked around and here are our top 5 private pools to hire around Norwich.
Newly added - Weston Leisure Pool and spa Based in Weston Longville. https://westonleisure.co.uk/
Rackheath Pool Norwich
This tropical pool is heated all year round, perfect for little ones which is why it features in our top 5 private pools to hire around Norwich. It comes with baby changing facilities and even travels cots. You can purchase Splash Happy Nappies from here as well.
Woodrising Pool Hire
Private and a very relaxed atmosphere makes this pool great for families which is why it is one of our top 5 private pools around Norwich. It is a great place to learn to swim and very family orientated. Lessons are also available. The pool is located just outside of Shipdham, Norfolk.
Pears Pools
Found 5 miles south east of Norwich, Pearls Pools has numerous facilities which is why we find it in our top 5 private pools to hire around Norwich. It has a wet room, baby changing facilities, pre-sim rooms, and even a lounge area. It has everything you could possibly need for a relaxed family swim.
Bacton Private Pool Hire
Next on our top 5 private pool to hire around Norwich is Bacton private pool. Pack the inflatables as this 33-degree heated pool is perfect for all members of the family, why not bring along Gran too! With a play area located on the side of the pool and a baby changing station it really is a family friendly as they come.
Anchorage Pool
The final entry on our top 5 private pools to hire around Norwich is located just outside of the city centre in Stoke Holy Cross. Maintained at a constant warm temperature it makes it suitable for babies the first time in the pool. Changing areas, showers, and even tennis and gym activities have something for every member of the family.
Do you know of any family-friendly private pools that you recommend? We would love to hear from you, so we can add them to our list!
Vicki Cockerill is a NICU/ CHD Mum of two boys, a freelance blogger and social media adviser, Co Founder of #KnackeredandNorwich social club and maternal mental health advocate.
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More blogs can be found here, and I also would love more guest bloggers baby/ family related, get in touch as I'd love to hear from you. If you love family time and wish to have your family captured, in a relaxed way, feel free to drop me a message via my contact form.
Tips on how to handle a newborn and a toddler
Tips on how to handle a newborn and a toddler - by guest blogger Vicki Cockerill 2018
We all know that babies don't follow the textbooks and parenting manuals. They don't just slip into the Gina Ford sleep routine and now you have an extra factor to consider.... the first small human you created!
So, here are some of our real and honest tips on handling a newborn and a toddler.
No visitors, please!
In those first couple of weeks, each member of the family will be adjusting to the new dynamic. Spend some time on your own and go with the flow of baby and toddler you may be surprised that you develop some sort of loose routine by the end. With some much change, the last thing you need is lots off visitor traffic.
Let it go
As much as you want to shower your firstborn with love to make them still feel special, you also have the constant demands of your baby to think about. Welcome to being a parent of two! An ongoing juggle and overwhelming guilt! Let it go! Let family friends take your toddler out, let them go to Nan's or stick the I PAD on while you feed the baby. You may feel like your neglecting them but if people are willing to help let them! It's only temporary and the balance will realign eventually.
Don't expect too much
Try not to have a fixed idea of what you think those first weeks will be like and make loads of plans. Newborns never nap when you want them too and always feed when they should be asleep! Set yourself a small goal each day, for example, getting everyone dressed by 10! It doesn't even matter if you don't go out at least you've achieved it. Don't put lots of pressure on yourself to get out and about. Spend some time transitioning as a bigger family. When you expect to do too much and don't do it there is then a sense of failure. Try to be easy on yourself and don't expect too much. You're now in charge of two humans!
Make it easy
It really will be a savior for those chaotic times where you need to get out of the house, on time! Lay out everyone's clothes and pack bags the night before. Batch cook meals or at least plan what you will have each day. Do the shopping online or go on your own/ get a partner to do it rather than trying to do it with two kids.
One of the most important things to remember when handling a newborn and a toddler is to do what works for you. It won't be like this forever but in the meantime make it as easy as you can for yourself. There are no points for doing it all and you will feel so much better if you relax, be kind to yourself and enjoy it.
Vicki Cockerill is a NICU/ CHD Mum of two boys, a freelance blogger and social media adviser, Co Founder of #KnackeredandNorwich social club and maternal mental health advocate.
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You can read my other blogs about the studio, pregnancy guest blogger , more top tips here !
Considering booking a newborn shoot? Please check out these oh so cute babies in my newborn gallery, so you can see simple and natural newborn images really are timeless!