Latest news with #SortYourLifeOut
Tom's Guide
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Tom's Guide
What is the 'ex rule'? Meet the new cleaning hack that could help you break up with clutter
I'm always on the search for a good decluttering hack, but I thought I'd heard it all when the gross 'poop rule' arrived. Now I'm not so sure. After watching a home organization show, I discovered the 'ex rule'. No pun intended, but it's split our home team down the middle. It made me chuckle when I first heard how the decluttering tip works, but then I gave it some more thought, and I realized that it's an excellent way of parting with old clutter — but maybe too effective. Depending on how you and your ex parted ways, this decluttering hack could leave you with an empty house! The idea behind the 'ex rule' was shared by decluttering genie Dilly Cater, founder of Declutter Dollies and presenter on 'Sort Your Life Out', a decluttering show broadcast by the BBC. During the show, Carter explains, 'When you look at an item, think about how much you want to keep it.' She goes on to explain that you have to imagine your ex, who you never want to see again, still has the item. In that scenario, she says you need to ask yourself, 'Would I go through the embarrassment of calling them to get it back?' Get instant access to breaking news, the hottest reviews, great deals and helpful tips. Carter adds, 'Because if you would, you really want it. If you wouldn't, then it goes.' But rather than take my word for it, I asked around the Tom's Guide team for their thoughts on the 'ex rule'. Millie Fender, Managing Editor for Homes, shares my exact thoughts. 'I'm all for a good decluttering hack, but I'm struggling to think of anything — literally a single thing — that would make it worthwhile to contact my ex,' she says. 'But, if your ex is less of a [redacted] than mine, I can see the benefit of weighing up the value of a pair of shoes, or your favorite sweater, against the embarrassment of having to contact someone you'd really rather not speak to,' she adds. "Sure, you can clean poop out of your things, but God, I wouldn't put myself through the torture of actually speaking to one of my exes' Considering the decluttering method, Fender says, 'This hack definitely sparks an interesting way of evaluating how much you really want or need something, but if I used it, I think it'd leave me sitting in an empty apartment.' Nikita Achanta, Staff Writer, would freak out if she had to ask an ex for her stuff back, as she believes 'exes can't be friends'. Although she says, 'I actually prefer this decluttering method over the 'poop rule'. Sure, you can clean poop out of your things, but God, I wouldn't put myself through the torture of actually speaking to one of my exes' At the other extreme, Erin Bashford, staff writer, would go for it. 'Honestly, I'd get anything back from an ex because I am petty, and they don't deserve to hoard my beloved belongings,' she says. 'Joking aside, I would almost certainly fight any man if he tried to keep hold of my MacBook Pro, Patagonia puffer jacket (that keeps me warm in 1°F weather), vintage horse-patterned fleece, and any of my houseplants. So, it looks like I'd cut down on 90% of my belongings if I tried this decluttering hack — oops.' "Joking aside, I would almost certainly fight any man if he tried to keep hold of my MacBook Pro" There's definitely a clear divide among the team, but I'm curious to know how this hack will go down with our readers. So, next time you're ready for a declutter, will you try the 'ex rule', or is it one step too far?
Edinburgh Live
04-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Edinburgh Live
Stacey Solomon gives 'sad' family update as she reveals 'new journey forever'
Stacey Solomon has shared her heartache over the health struggles of her beloved dog Teddy, who underwent a major change earlier this year. The Sort Your Life Out presenter had previously asked for prayers from her fans in April when she revealed that Teddy's health had taken a sudden turn for the worse. She had explained to her followers that she and her husband Joe Swash were informed that their family pet 'might not ever fully recover', after discovering he had a predisposed condition they "had no idea about". READ MORE - ITV Lorraine pulled off air as Ranvir Singh makes sweet announcement READ MORE - Man who 'died and went to hell' says what he saw was worse than can be imagined Stacey detailed the incident, explaining that Teddy suddenly lost the use of his back legs. Vets later confirmed that he'd suffered a burst disc and his spine was "really worn" due to a predisposed condition. After disclosing that Teddy had undergone surgery, Stacey expressed: "We are praying and hoping so hard that he pulls through and that we can care for him in the best way we possibly can to give him the best life he can have.", reports the Manchester Evening News. "We are all truly devastated. He is the sweetest, most protective, loving dog. He's our family. And far too young to be going through this. We love you Ted. So so much. Pickle Cottage is far too quiet without you. I miss my toilet buddy. Peanut is so sad without his best friend.." In the weeks following Teddy's operation, Stacey shared that she was performing daily physiotherapy with him and having to express his bladder throughout the day, as he remained on medication and crate rest. Towards the end of last month, Stacey revealed she was taking Teddy for a check-up, admitting his future remained "uncertain", but had yet to update her followers on the results. On Tuesday (June 3), Stacey updated her millions of followers on Teddy's condition, describing the news as bittersweet. Sharing a photo of the adorable dog lying next to her, she said: "Teddy update, so many of you asking. After his vet appointment, it looks likely that Teddy will never get the feeling back in his legs and will need our help with urinating and assisted walks and physio forever. "But the good news is... the vet was so pleased with how happy Teddy was and how well we are doing his physio and managing his bladder. So me and Joe were really happy with that and felt extremely proud." The mother-of-five added: "I feel sad for Teddy but I'm also confident that me and Joe can give him the happiest life and all the love he deserves. So this new journey is forever. "But we love Teddy so much we will just keep going and do our best to find new ways to keep him healthy and happy for as long as we can [face holding back tears emoji]." This follows the release of Stacey and Joe's BBC One reality series, which gave viewers a glimpse into their family life at Pickle Cottage. The show, 'Stacey And Joe', featured the couple, their children, and pets – including their two dogs, Teddy and Peanut, as well as a number of ducks.
Daily Record
02-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Record
Take part in all your favourite BBC quiz and reality shows with everything you need to know to apply
The Apprentice, Sort Your Life Out and Race Across the World, plus lots more, are all on the lookout for fresh faces to take part in their next series - and you can be one of them Ever dreamed of starring in a television show, testing your mettle as you've watched others do from the comfort of your living room? If you're sitting and thinking "I could do that!" Well, we have splendid news for you and the definitive guide for telly enthusiasts looking to take part in iconic programmes - complete with advice on how to throw your hat in the ring. Hit shows such as The Traitors, Gladiators, The Repair Shop, Race Across the World and many others are on the lookout for new participants to bring fresh energy to their up-coming series. Taking the plunge with just one application might see you fulfilling the ultimate dream of appearing on a much-loved television show. Production teams are always searching for individuals, couples or group contestants to feature in some of the nation's most loved programmes. We have delved into the huge list of opportunities currently available on BBC TV shows for those keen on securing a spot. There are many opportunities in exciting programmes just waiting to be filled, from The Apprentice to Dragons Den or more niche programmes seeking certain skills. Lots of BBC programmes are actively pursuing contributions from members of the public, ranging from enthusiasts in interiors, antiques and hopeful gameshow entrants ready to steal the limelight. For those considering taking the leap, here's our handy catalogue of popular BBC shows actively recruiting contestants at this moment. Gladiators Gladiators, one of UK's most popular and energetic sports entertainment game shows is back, and it's bigger than ever! Returning for a third series, interested participants who believe they have the skill and speed to take on the superhuman Gladiators can apply via this link. This opportunity is closing soon (May 30). Race Across the World BBC One's BAFTA winning hit series Race Across the World is back and searching for intrepid duos ready to take a step into the unknown and embark on an epic race across land and sea. Imagine the adventure of a lifetime all aired on TV, if you fancy your chances, take a look and apply here. Michael McIntyre's The Wheel This fan-favourite show gives contestants the chance to win a cash prize by taking on The Wheel. With the help of celebrity experts who will assist in answering the questions, the ultimate goal is to bag the jackpot. Interested participants can apply here. Dragon's Den For all the budding entrepreneurs out there, if your business is seeking investment or a potential partnership with a multi-millionaire business mogul, then this is your golden opportunity. Dragons' Den offers entrepreneurs the chance to present their revolutionary business ideas to an esteemed panel of some of the UK's most successful businesspeople: The Dragons. You can apply to enter the Den here. Interior Design Masters with Alan Carr BBC are searching for the next interior design superstar. Alan Carr and interiors guru Michelle Ogundehin are on the hunt for creative, passionate, and innovative designers - if that's you, apply here. The Repair Shop The BBC programme where experts repair and restore treasured items that have been damaged or fallen into disrepair is looking for contestants. If you're a fan of the series and would like to have the chance of appearing on the show, you can apply here. Debate Night BBC Scotland's Debate Night is looking for people from all walks of life to join the audience and hold the people in power to account. If you'd like to put your questions and views to politicians you can apply for that possibility here. Lost and Found in the Lakes Helen Skelton is set to front new BBC show Lost and Found in the Lakes, as she leads a team of expert divers and detectorists to search for precious items lost by members of the public. You can apply for this opportunity here. The Apprentice The Apprentice is already on the hunt for candidates for the next series. Lord Sugar has already invested over £3,000,000 in business start-ups via the show. You need confidence and great ideas to impress for this amazing opportunity, take you chances and apply here - you could gain an investment of up to £250,000. Sort Your Life Out Fed up of a cluttered home? Well this opportunity could change that. Shared households or family homes can apply for the next show, which could see experts like Stacey Solomon step into your abode and get your place sorted. Apply here for this lifechanging possibility. There are many more BBC shows looking for participants or contestants, including Mastermind and Rip Off Britain. The One Show is also looking for stories and radio show, Gardeners Questions would also like to here your queries. Homes Under the Hammer and Bargain Hunt have also opened for new applications - you can find out about all the opportunities on BBC TV shows and how to take part here.
Daily Mirror
27-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
Stacey Solomon admits she's 'a little bit scared' after star's cheeky comment
One of the latest stars of Stacey Solomon's Sort Your Life Out made the saucy quip after being overwhelmed by gratitude at what Stacey had done to transform her bedroom. Stacey Solomon was left a bit nervous after a cheeky comment from a grateful mum on this week's episode of Sort Your Life Out. The presenter, 35, returned to the BBC tonight (May 27) with her popular decluttering show. In it she and her team help families transform their homes by tackling the objects they have allowed to pile up head-on. This week's episode took Stacey and her team of experts to Hull, where they met parents Tim and Daniela and their two daughters, Leonora, 11, and Veronica, seven. Tim and Daniela had saved for years to put down a deposit on their house, but after being made redundant in 2017, renovations came to a quick stop. Thanks to their limited finances and the difficulties that come with raising two growing kids in a small space, clutter had taken over every corner of the home. Before the clean-up crew even got through the front door, Stacey was left stunned by the sheer amount of stuff the family had accumulated. "Oh my God, I can't actually open it," she gasped. "You can't get through this door — this has never happened!" After Robert Bent, Iwan Carrington, and Dilly Carter finally managed to enter the property through the back door, they were met with rooms overflowing with piles of possessions and an overwhelmed family. Daniela became emotional as she opened up about the toll the past few years had taken on her family. She tearfully shared: "The lack of finances has definitely stopped us achieving what we want from this home." Stacey rushed over to give her a hug, saying: "I'm going to give you a cuddle because I can see that it is upsetting you." After a massive clear out, where the team discovered 801 CDs, 135 cuddly toys, and an eye-watering 412 out-of-date food items, the BBC helpers laid out the family's belongings in a warehouse to help them decide what to keep. Both the parents and kids were tasked with going through all of their belongings and giving what they felt they could part ways with to charity, or putting it in a pile to be recycled. While they completed that process, Stacey's team worked on building storage units for the house and doing some refurbishments that would transform the home so it was actually liveable. This included a stunning bedroom which Daniela and Tim could unwind in - without having to literally jump over piles of rubbish to get to the bed. It was this new bedroom that sparked the hilarious interaction between Stacey and Daniela at the end of the show. The mum was overcome by joy after seeing the new space, and exclaimed: "Every night when I go to bed I'll be thinking about you now, Stacey!" Stacey seemed flattered but also caught off guard by the comment, and laughingly replied: "No one's ever said that to me before. I don't know if I'm flattered or a little bit scared!"
Scottish Sun
25-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Scottish Sun
Stacey Solomon reveals the free activity she gets her kids doing daily during half term – it keeps them busy for hours
KEEPING kids entertained during the school holidays can be tough - but Stacey Solomon revealed she has a trick up her sleeve. The mum-of-five revealed that her children love one free activity that keeps them busy for hours. Advertisement 5 Stacey Solomon revealed how she keeps her kids busy during half term Credit: BBC 5 The Loose Women star shared how her kids spend ages gardening Credit: Instagram/staceysolomon 5 The TV star often shares behind the scenes pictures and clips from their family life Credit: BBC Stacey took to Instagram and shared how her kids are following in her footsteps in doing gardening at their £1.2million Pickle Cottage. Sharing a photo of three of her kids, she wrote: 'Happy Sunday from the gardening club. 'The bug is catching on. 'Every morning they want to get straight out into the garden with me. I love it!' Advertisement The Loose Women star, 35, also shared how she has been spending the bank holiday painting an adorable bee hive for the garden, and she also has a vegetable patch. In a recent clip on Instagram, she told fans: "Ages ago I was like, 'I'm going to get bees'. "But I thought I'm not getting bees unless I really study it properly and learn everything about it. "So I found this incredible lady called Helen who does beekeeping courses, there's a theory and a practical. Advertisement "I booked myself in for the course. Teddy got really sick and I said to the lady, 'my dog's not very well, I can't leave him for too long, can we do some of the course at my house?' "And she said 'we can do the theory at your house then you can come and do the practical where I've got my hive'." Stacey Solomon reveals ANOTHER new addition to Pickle Cottage But Stacey explained that, while at Pickle Cottage, her plumber Mark told them he'd just driven past a hive of bees, adding: "Helen was like, 'let's go get them, that could be your colony'." Despite Stacey's protests that she "wasn't ready", Helen pushed on and they went to collect the bees to bring them back to Pickle Cottage. Advertisement Stacey then proudly showed off the hive, adding: "I have my very own Pickle Cottage bee hive and it's the best thing ever." Other animals who call the property home include four ducks - Daisy, Delilah, Daphne and Delphine - and dogs Teddy and Peanut. 5 Stacey showed that a recent home project was her painted bee hive Credit: Instagram/staceysolomon The TV Star recently left fans stunned when she took to social media to rant after her BBC show Sort Your Life Out didn't win a gong at the ceremony. Advertisement The presenter didn't hold back in an emotional video shared to Instagram, in which she confessed to being heartbroken that her team missed out. The series, which began airing in 2021, had been shortlisted in the Factual Entertainment category but ultimately lost to Rob and Rylan's Grand Tour. Although Stacey offered congratulations to Rylan Clark and Rob Rinder, she made it clear how disappointed she felt. 5 Stacey recently shared how she was gutted about not winning a Bafta Credit: PA Advertisement She told her followers: 'We didn't win a Bafta. And I know I'm supposed to take it gracefully like a champ but, I'll be honest, I'm devastated! 'I'm not handling it very well, I'm not taking it very gracefully - I'm devastated! I'm devastated for our whole team, like I'm so gutted for our team.' After her TV Bafta rant, insiders told how Stacey was "upset" and didn't want to come across as "ungrateful". A source told OK! Magazine: "The negative comments really upset her, she takes them to heart, she never wants to be seen as ungrateful, because she's not. Advertisement "She's a really hard worker and gives her all to everything, so it's devastating when it doesn't pay off, and it understandably makes her worry."
