Win a £15 voucher to spend with KyNa Boutique

When you become a parent, dressing your child seems to be far more important than dressing yourself.

I have lost count of the times I have been shopping for something for me, and ended up with an outfit for one of the children!

Over the last three years I have taken to shopping online more and more - partly because it is so much easier than dragging a child around the shops, and you can do it any time of day or night.  The one thing that puts me off though is the delivery charge!

Well Jenny at KyNa Boutique has this sorted, not only does it stock funky, contemporary and ethical clothing online, there is free delivery and returns on every item.  What's more - all their items are organic, so are suitable for little ones with delicate skin prone to Eczema or allergies aged 0-5. 

Jenny and the inspirations behind KyNa Boutique

They stock ranges from Ava and Luc, Bamboo Baby, Green Baby, Old Rectory and many more.  Not only is the service is fantastic - my dresses arrived for Eliza the very next day and beautifully packaged, but they are super friendly and helpful too!

Eliza in the Bamboo Baby Classic Denim Dress

Eliza in the Bamboo Baby Alice Dress

To celebrate the launch of the new spring range, KyNa Boutique have offered a prize of a £15 voucher to be spent with them.  I know I cannot choose what I want to order first:

TO ENTER…

• Fill in the Rafflecopter widget below to verify your entries
• Entries can be via blog comment, Facebook, Twitter etc
• Please read the rules below
• Closing date Midnight 31st March 2012

How Rafflecopter Works

• If there is no form hit refresh (f5) and it should appear
• If it still not working check that your computer is running Javascript
• You need to complete the mandatory entry first – usually making a blog comment
• Rafflecopter will tweet, like and follow on your behalf making it really easy to enter!
• Really want to win the prize? Come back every day for bonus entries via Twitter

Cubby Kit - Our Review

I had never heard about CubbyKit until @mummy_blogger introduced me to @CubbyKit. When they tweeted they were looking for reviewers for their CubbyKit I was there like a shot.

I love crafting with my boys, but I am the first to admit I don't do it half as much as I should. I gave them my address and wondered what we would be receiving.

The very next day, a wonderful brown parcel arrived, addressed to Isaac. Now who doesn't like recieving post, especially a big parcel? Cue much excitement in the house!

What was inside?

Firstly, I must say how beautifully packaged it all was. you open the box and the contents are wrapped in tissue like you can see above. Once this tissue is open, each activity is in its own individual brown paper bag. Not only looking lovely, but environmentally friendly too!

The CubbyKit we received was the one aimed at 3-4 years olds and was a Space theme.

3D Rocket Picture:

This was Isaac's first choice and involved getting nice and messy with colouring, sticking and cutting activities. Big brother Kian joined in, making this a great family activity:

As you can probably see from the messy table, there are full instructions and ALL equipement is provided - Glue, glitter, safety scissors, crayons, colouring pencils etc

Choosing colours

Isaac's favourite part was sticking:

Once coloured in the rockets were decorated and stuck on black paper (also provided) and Isaac began making the night sky

And here us the finished 3D Rocket picture:

Constellations Wall Chart:

This was a little old for Isaac and involved joining the dots on postcards using a silver pen. 11 year old Kian loves all things Space and is actually studying this at school, so he took over this activity. Once the dots were joined, the boys stuck the postcards on the black paper and Isaac decorated around the them:

Mushy Martians:

This involved cooking up some Playdoh and decorating it with googly eyes and pipe cleaners to make a funny Martian.

I didn't get any pictures of us preparing the play doh, as it needs to be heated on the hob and was quite a mucky affair with a 3 year old in charge of the flour! Suffice to say, any child who enjoys getting stuck in will love this activity.

Once the playdoh is made you can get designing the Martian. Here is Isaac's:

We thoroughly enjoyed our Cubby Kit and highly recommend it.

This is what CubbyKit have to say:

Inside every CubbyKit:
	Each box will have all the materials and instructions needed to create these activities.
	Activities are designed by parents, reviewed by advisors and tested by children.
	Takes the hard work out of having fun with your child.

CubbyKit is a subscription service costing £19.99 a month. Please click on the link on the left hand side of my blog for more information.

Don't like reins - Try a Boomerin - Review

When the lovely Mike from Koolkangaroos contacted me to ask me if I wanted to try out the Boomerin, I jumped at the chance.

Eliza started walking just before Christmas and is now starting to want to walk everywhere.  I have tried reins with my older children and find that they just don't like them and tend to hang like puppets as soon as you put them on.

Let me introduce you to the Boomerin:

If like me you work anywhere that requires some sort of swipe card to gain entry to the building, you will know all about the retractable fobs that attach to your belt / waist band.  This works on a similar idea.

The Boomerin is retractable child safety rein that clips easily between you and your children around the waist using adjustable straps, allowing them to stick close to you, while you can carry on using both hands to get on with your day.

It's the first of its kind in the UK and whether you're at the supermarket, the doctors, the beach, the park or crossing the road - it offers, safe, reliable, innovative help to busy mums and dads on the go.

Did I like it?

YES - I LOVE IT!!

It took a few minutes to get used to.  Eliza wasn't used to be restrained and when she tried to run off it locked and she ended up on her bottom a few times, but once we found our feet we were off.  She loved the freedom of being able to walk without the feeling of being held and I was comfortable that she couldn't go far.  My hands were free to push her buggy (with her lazy older brother in it) knowing she was safe.

Exploring Boscombe Pier

The retractable elastic only extends 21" and I was worried that this wouldn't be long enough, but it is perfect.  If you have a toddler and a young baby, you can be safe in the knowledge that the toddler cannot get in harms way whilst you are strapping baby into the car and your hands are free to deal with anything that crops up.  If you have twins, or triplets you can wear more than one of these too!

The Boomerin is comfortable to wear for both the adult and the child.  It fits me and hubby perfectly as the waist band is adjustable.  The only thing that goes against it is the colour of the belt - a khaki green - but it is easily disguised if you so wish.  I was stopped half a dozen times in the space of half an hour to say what a fab idea it was and where to get it from!

Wanting to get to the sand

Koolkangaroos currently have the Boomerin priced at a very reasonable £15.95 and are currently offering a free HI VIZ bib with every purchase worth £3.99. The lovely Mike is also donating a percentage of the sales to charities close to his heart - Cynthia Spencer Hospice, Cancer Research and Help for Heroes.

Fully extended

I rate this product 9/10 (it would have been 10 if the belt were black) and recommend it for parents, grandparents, childminders of children walking age and above.  I even used it on my son's 4 year old friend as he has a habit of running off and I didn't want him to run in the road!

I am setting up as a childminder and will certainly be buying another of these for when we have days out, or even just a walk to the shops.

What was number 1 in the UK music charts when your baby was born?

I was in the car listening to the radio yesterday when Spiller and Groovejet started playing.  I love this song and it is all the more special because it was No:1 when Kian was born.

It got me thinking, do you all remember what was No:1 when you little one(s) were born?

Here is mine in chronological order:

Abbey


Callan


Kian


Isaac (You tube banned from letting me embed the official video)


Eliza


I think this is a lovely feel good thing to do, so I am going to tag the following lovely ladies to join me in this task

@mummy_blogger
@mummyglitzer
@mummyconstant
@him_me_three
@trickycustomer
@mummybird
@mummy_central
@bluebearwood
@bobbity666
@mothersright

The Mummy Budget

On Thursday, having had a letter drop through the letter box from HMRC stating that the upper limit of tax credit help was being dropped from £40,000 to £26,000, me and a number of other yummy mummies went into a bit of twitter meltdown.

It's fair to say that the last year has seen us cut down heavily on even the little things.  Most of us with children just do not have enough spare cash to even have a simple haircut, or treat ourselves to a meal out, let alone days out with the family.

So - let me introduce you to the Mummy Budget.

The team so far is @mummy_blogger who blogs at http://www.themummyblogger.co.uk/, @Bobbity666 who blogs at http://www.bloggomy.blogspot.com/ and @alidaly40 but we would love you to join in.

We want tips on how you are saving money.  This could be anything, no matter how trivial you think it is, because (sorry to steal a catchphrase) Every Little Helps.

Here are some of the ideas we have discussed so far:

• Have you seen an offer for a free or half price hair cut, or a fab offer on a hair colour
• Activities you can take the kids for free
• The latest food / baby / multibuy offers
• Days out deals
• Competitions
• General hints and tips

We have a link up below and hope to get more people involved.  If you have any tips of your own and don't have the time to share, simply tweet us using the hashtag #MummyBudget and we'll take it from there.

We cannot wait for your ideas.....................................

Saturday is Caption Day

I didn't have any funny photo's this week for Saturday Caption day - until now............

What do you think she is saying?

How teenage drivers can reduce their car insurance costs

I have been approached by Sainsburys Finance about hosting a guest post for them on how teenage drivers can reduce their Car Insurance premiums.  Having gone through this with my daughter in 2010 and now assisting my brother and sister in law, I can wholly recommend these suggestions.

Learning to drive is a true rite of passage for many teenagers. However, Car Insurance premiums for young people can be very expensive. This is because young drivers are usually seen as a higher risk by insurance providers.

In fact, according to the Association of British Insurers, drivers aged 17-20 are twice as likely to make an insurance claim as older drivers. Also, on average, their claim costs are three times higher.

By choosing the right car insurance, taking the proper precautions and building up a good safety record, teenagers could steadily reduce their car insurance premiums. Here are a few pointers.

Take a Pass Plus course
The Driving Standards Agency’s Pass Plus course is designed for new drivers. It can help teenagers gain more experience in a variety of driving conditions. A Pass Plus certificate might also help teenagers get discounts on their car insurance policies.

Drive a sensible car
Driving a highly modified car or one with a large engine can significantly raise the cost of car insurance. Young drivers should consider choosing cars in low insurance groups as this can reduce premiums.

Add or be added as a named driver
Teenagers can bring down the cost of their premiums by adding a more experienced person, with a good driving record, as a named driver on their policy. Alternatively, an older driver can add a teenager as a named driver on their own policy. Remember, if the teenager makes a claim, it could affect the no claim discount of the policyholder.
However, be careful not to ‘front’. ‘Fronting’ is a form of insurance fraud in which someone other than the main driver of the vehicle is falsely declared as the policy holder, in order to cut insurance costs. A common example of this is when parents or older relatives insure a teenager’s car and declare themselves as the main driver, when in fact this should be the teenager.
Fronting can lead to a criminal conviction and invalidate the insurance policy, making the policyholder liable for all costs arising from any claim. It can also make it more difficult and more expensive to get car insurance in the future.

Look out for car insurance deals when buying a new car
Car dealers and manufacturers sometimes offer special insurance deals when you purchase a car. It’s worth keeping an eye out for these offers. However, always check that the car insurance offered is right for the driver’s requirements.

Shop around
Research the market well to get the best deals. Use price comparison websites to get an idea of the different deals on offer for your preferred level of cover. Remember that you might have to contact some insurance providers directly, as not all are included on price comparison websites.

Pay a larger voluntary excess
Some insurance providers might agree to let teenagers pay a larger voluntary excess, which can sometimes bring down the cost of premiums. However, it’s important to check that they would be able to afford this amount in the event of a claim. Also take into account any compulsory excess that might be payable when claiming.

Different opinions, different needs
Some parents are happy to buy car insurance for their teenagers. Others think it better for teenagers to pay for it themselves, as this could make them more responsible drivers and adults. But regardless of who pays, always make sure the car insurance policy is the right one for the driver’s needs.

The Photo Gallery - Landscapes

The lovely Tara at Sticky Fingers has chosen Landscape as this weeks Gallery theme.

I am feeling guilty as I have not completed the challenge over the last two weeks as I have been busy in a whirl of ill children, decorating and half term.

I have chosen a local beauty spot as my choice - Burton Bradstock, Dorset.

Burton Bradstock

My husband took this using a panoramic function on the camera last year, whilst I was fossil hunting on the beach with the children.  There is a lovely cafe just beyond the hill which is perfect for warming up with a nice hot chocolate.

I love the vibrant colour contrasts of the grass, cliff and the sea in the next shot:

Burton Bradstock

We were a little disappointed that we didn't spot the regular Dolphin visitors, but we had a lovely day all the same, and we were treated to this gorgeous view of Chesil beach on the way home too!

Chesil Beach

Living with Teens

I was having a twitter conversation with a fellow mum with teenagers last night and it seems I'm not alone in my frustrations.

I continue to believe that baby and toddler parenting is easier, despite the sleepless nights, teething and tantrums!

Why, you ask?

• Teens answer back and have an argument for everything (and I mean EVERYTHING)

• Teens know it all!

• Teens need to be surgically removed from mobile phones

• Teens ignore any advice you offer - in fact they do the opposite
• Teens need the latest laptop / designer clothes / Blackberry otherwise they will self implode (Fact)
• If you ask a teen to help its "So Unfair"

• Everyone else's life is so much better than theirs

• Teens are incapable of turning off lights, drawing curtains, making beds and generally clearing up after themselves
• Teens rarely have a tidy room (only when mum does it)
• Newly washed and ironed clothes are put back in the wash basket because they can't be bothered to put then away!
• Teens expect the Bank of Mum & Dad to be open 24/7

• Teens wish to stay up late and then can't get up the next morning

• Teens tell you they've done they're homework / room etc, when they haven't!

• Teens appear to speak an entirely different English language

• Always wear protective clothing and a hard hat when opening their wardrobe - falling objects and mouldy food common place!

Have you got any other "teen traits" to add to the list?? I'm sure there are many more.........TBC

Win a Baby Print Kit in time for Mothers Day

The lovely Sarah at Eternal Impressions has kindly offered a Baby Print Kit as prize which will be with you in time for Mothers Day.

The Baby Print Kit includes everything you need to take your little one’s hand & foot prints easily, with no paint, no ink, no mess or fuss.  It may be called the Baby Print Kit, but it works just as well for older children and adults.  I am having a canvas made with my family's prints in all different colours!

The product consists of one inkless magic wipe, four sheets of print paper and a full set of easy to follow instructions.

Also included is a £5.00 on-line gift voucher that can transform your baby’s prints into fine silver mini-casting jewellery, personalised crystal gifts, mugs, clocks and more. See the web page How to Use Your Baby Print Kit Voucher for more details.

The Baby Print Kit gives you the stress free way of keeping your prints for your baby book. The prints can be scanned and used to make birth announcement cards, thank you cards or even upload to Facebook!

TO ENTER…

• Fill in the Rafflecopter widget below to verify your entries
• Entries can be via blog comment, Facebook, Twitter etc
• Please read the rules below
• Closing date Midnight 4th March 2012

How Rafflecopter Works

• If there is no form hit refresh (f5) and it should appear
• If it still not working check that your computer is running Javascript
• You need to complete the mandatory entry first – usually making a blog comment
• Rafflecopter will tweet, like and follow on your behalf making it really easy to enter!
• Really want to win the prize? Come back every day for bonus entries via Twitter

Just follow the Rafflecopter instructions to enter:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Treat her to a taste of English heritage this Mother's Day

Guest Post by James Congdon (@JamesBuyagift) from Buy a Gift

With Mother’s Day around the corner we should be thinking about how we can treat our mums this year. But if like most of us you’re stuck for ideas, then the findings of a survey from experience company Buyagift might just offer you a nudge in the right direction.

The research from the company specialising in unique gifts such as driving experiences in the UK, spa days, and days out in London found that 13.1% of mums would like to spend Mother’s Day exploring the serenity of the countryside.

So with this in mind, why not treat her to a taste of English Heritage this Mother’s Day 2012? Give her the gift of discovery with a fantastic historic day out in England. You could combine the day with a trip to the seaside at the Royal Pavillion in Brighton, or enjoy the wonderful combination of classic tradition and unrivalled luxury at Woodfam House on a memorable tea for two experience. What’s great about this one is that you and your mum will also be given two tickets to Sandringham estate – how fantastic is that.

Give her the royal treatment

Having waited on you for years, I think you’d agree that she’s more than deserved of the royal treatment this year. So why not spoil her with a fascinating tour of Kensington Palace. As one of the finest Royal buildings in Britain, you’ll enjoy afternoon tea before exploring the King’s Gallery and the Sunken Gardens, as well as the recently refurbished Thistle Kensington Gardens where you’ll enjoy more tea for two.

Try some fantastic days out in London

If you think she’d enjoy a day out soaking up some culture in London, then a tour along the Thames and up to the majestic Hampton Court would go down well. You’ll take in the sights on vintage style bikes before embarking a short train journey to Richmond where you’ll walk around the area before picking up your bikes for another relaxing bike ride along the Thames – it’s great!

Whatever you decide to do for Mother’s Day, make sure it’s day to remember for the very special lady in your life!

Silent Sunday

Saturday is Caption Day!

I haven't had much chance for good photo's in the last week as I have been busy decorating, but we took the morning off on Thursday and went out for some much needed fresh air.

I love this picture, can you give it a caption?

The Perfect Gift for Mothers Day

Are you looking for that perfect gift for new parents, a birthday or Mothers Day?

Something that really means something, that will be treasured forever?

Let me give you a helping hand.

Meet Eternal Impressions - it is a family run business that has been established in the keepsake market for over 8 years. I can personally recommend them having had purchased many of their products including castings of my babies hands and feet, a silver bracelet with charms featuring the hands and feet of the little ones and finger prints of the older children. I also have mugs and had plaques made for grandparents.

For casting sessions Sarah covers Dorset and Hampshire but for jewellery, mugs, plaques and more it's UK wide. All you need is the Baby Print Kit

The kit can be used for baby book prints, card making, tattoo templates and more, with no ink, mess or fuss. It's completely safe and easy, can be used from birth and is a great hospital bag gift - and what's more - it's easy peasy to use too!

The Baby Print Kit costs just £9.95 and contains a £5 gift voucher which can be used if you want to turn the prints into a gift like shown below:

Further more, Sarah is offering a further £5 discount code on her Facebook page if you like it!  That means that the casting kit is effectively free!  If you don't have facebook, then you can also follow Sarah on twitter @Eternal_Sarah and I'm sure she will give you her discount code if you tweet her nicely!

Hurry though - for guaranteed delivery for Mothers Day, kits must be returned to the studio by 29th February!!

You can also follow Sarah's Blog for news and upcoming offers, plus she also has an exciting competition coming up to win £100 worth of Eternal Impressions gift vouchers so please follow her on twitter and facebook and when she gets to 500 likes, she will launch it!!

Happy Printing!

Safer Internet Day - Competition

What’s Your Story?  Now’s your time to share!

Trend Micro launches new competition for Safer Internet Day

Have you ever had a bad experience on the internet, or know someone who has? Or perhaps you have some tips for staying safe online that you would like to share?

Launching on Safer Internet Day, 7th February 2012, the ‘What’s your Story?’ competition, organised by internet security expert Trend Micro in partnership with Get Safe Online, invites schools, families, and individuals aged 7+, to create and submit a short video, song, story, poem or drawing to share their advice to other young people about ‘How to be Web Safe’ – and offers £5,000 to the Grand Prize winner.

Now in its third year, the competition aims to help teachers, parents, and young people to become more aware of internet safety, in a fun and engaging way, whilst encouraging them to act safely and responsibly online. The internet is a powerful tool and using it is an important life skill. 

“Following the success of last year’s global competition, we wanted to expand the ways in which young people in the UK could take part in the contest.  There are now plenty of ways for them to express their creativity and show others how to best take responsibility for their actions online and raise awareness of the issues they may face.  Keeping children safe online is paramount; from cyberbullying to viruses and the more publicised risks, it’s all about striking the right balance between allowing them to maintain a sense of independence and feeling able to ask for advice – and this competition allows them to do just that, while sharing their own experiences too.” said Rik Ferguson, Director Security Research & Communication EMEA at Trend Micro

As part of the campaign, Trend Micro Internet Safety for Kids and Families has teamed up with some of the world’s leading organisations, to create a judging panel which includes: Get Safe Online, Childnet International, Yahoo! and Diana Award.

Tony Neate, Managing Director 'Get Safe Online',  said: “The ‘What's Your Story?’ competition is a brilliant opportunity for young people and schools to get creative and learn from their peers about using technology safely, in a fun and engaging way, whilst encouraging everyone to act responsibly online.  With recent research from Trend Micro showing that a third of children aged 11-15 admit to taking more risks online than in real life, there’s never been a better time to remind them that the internet is a powerful tool and using it is an important life skill.”

Research by Trend Micro reveals that:

•        12% of children accept any friend request they receive on Facebook

·         Nearly half of children  (44%) have friends on Facebook that they have never met in real life

•        Half of children also use the internet mostly on their own, unsupervised, and admit to not telling the truth about bad experiences online

·         41% of parents feel that their children hide some of their online activity... but 57% of children admit to hiding online activity from Mum and Dad

What’s Your Story will award a grand prize of £5,000 to the winning entry, as well as three runner-up prizes of £500 each, and one school runner-up prize of £1,000.  The last day to submit video entries is 3 April 2012.  To learn more about the competition and submit your entry, visit www.trendmicro.co.uk/whatsyourstory or email trend@octopuscomms.net.   

A Simple Exercise

The very lovely Multiplemummy has tagged me to answer 11 questions about myself. Sadly I don't get to choose the questions myself, but that's what makes it more fun.

1. Apart from your children, what was your greatest accomplishment?

It would have to be working my way up to a successful manager at the supermarket where I worked. I managed to do this whilst working part time and running a home with three children!

2. What is your favourite beverage?

I love a very unhealthy Hot Chocolate with lashings of cream and marshmallows!

3. Why do you blog?

I'm quite new to this still, but I blog because I am enjoying the interaction with other mummy bloggers and it's great to have a record of what has been going on - Sort of like an online diary. I wish I had a record of my older ones as you really do forget!

4. If a pregnancy scan showed twins tomorrow, what would be your initial thoughts?

If I'm honest I'd be ecstatic, but then I'd panic - where would we put them for a start as we've barely enough room as it is and then there would be all the health worries as I had Gestational Diabetes with my last three pregnancies!

5. What is the hardest part of parenting to your mind?

Letting go and leaving the child to make their own mistakes. Having teenagers it makes your realise that you can only try and influence their decisions and when they get it wrong you sweep in and pick up the pieces!

6. What is your secret parenting weapon?

The best punishment (when they're old enough to understand) is to remove their favourite toy!

7. What is your idea of blissful me time?

What's that? I do love a facial or a fishy pedicure but haven't had one for over a year. The best I get is a relaxing bath with a Lush bath bomb! (Preferably without a little person throwing toys at me or banging on the door demanding a wee wee)

8. Who do you think has the best job - the mummy or the daddy?

It's Daddy in our house. Mummy = Food, Daddy = Fun

9. What thing do you recommend people do before they have children if they get the chance?

Travel - experience different cultures and explore. I really wish I'd done it!

10. What are your hopes for this year?

I hope that my 11 year passes his Grammar exam, that I get successfully registered as a Childminder and we manage to afford to get the things that need to be done to the house. (if we could manage a holiday that would be the icing on the cake)

11. Describe yourself in 5 words

Mummy, Wife, Agony Aunt, Friend, Daughter (is that cheating?)

So the bloggers I am tagging are:

Mummy_Blogger

MummyGlitzer

Tiredmummyoftwo

LuckyLauraQ

BudgetingMum

Eliza-Do-Lots

Mummy_Loves

Dear Beautiful Boy

Chez_Mummy

MinistryofMum

Charliechinuk

My questions to you are:

1. Apart from being a mummy, what is (or was) your chosen career?

2. Where is the most exotic place you have ever visited?

3. What piece of advise would you give to a teenage you, if you got the chance?

4. How old were you when you had your first baby?

5. What is your signature dish?

6. What do you wish you had done before having children?

7. What is your most embarrassing mummy moment?

8. What are your favourite activities to do with the children?

9. What is your claim to fame (if you have one)

10. Which children's TV show is your (not the kids) favourite?

11. If you had a day to yourself, what would you do?


The Rules:

*. You must post these rules
*. Each person must post 11 things about herself on their blog
*. Answer the questions the "tagger" listed for you in their post and create 11 new questions for the people you tag to answer
*. Choose 11 people to tag and link them to the post
*. Let each blogger know you've tagged them


- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Win A Family Ticket to Paultons Park - Home to Peppa Pig World

Can you believe I have been blogging for a whole 6 months? Time certainly does fly when you are having fun and to celebrate my first 6 months I have an unbelievable prize.

My first ever blog page was written about our trip to Paultons Park in August 2011, so I have the ultimate prize - A Family Ticket to Paulton's Park (A Family Ticket covers entry for a family fo 5)

We have been going to Paultons Park since it opened in 1983 and have seen many changes in that time. It keeps getting better and better. There are wonderful walks to be had around Meerkat Manor and the beautiful gardens (beware of the Dinosaurs). There are many beautiful birds to be seen, but my personal favourites are the penguins.

Then there are the rides. Whether you are looking for family, children or thrill rides, there is something for everyone. My older boys absolutely loved The Edge. You sit on a circular platform on a seat that resembles a motorbike. This platform then revolves AND travels along a rollercoaster track (mine are the ones with there hands in the air)

In 2011 Paultons Park saw the opening of its newest attraction Peppa Pig World. If you have not heard of Peppa Pig, where oh where have you been? You can visit Peppa's house, The School, The Library, Grandpa Pigs House, Grandad Dogs Garage and even the Campervan.

Isaac adored exploring all of these with great gusto, but his favourite part was trying out all the rides. My personal favourite was the Windy Castle, but Isaac loved Georges Dinosaur Adventure. There is even a Muddy Puddles splashpark for warmer weather so make sure you take a change of clothes and a towel.

If the weather does happen to be a little wet, then there is also Georges Spaceship Indoor Playzone to keep the little ones amused.

The park is perfectly set up for children of all ages, and I was most impressed by how clean and tidy the whole park was. The toilets even have toddler seats on every toilet!! There are picnic areas available if you want to take your own food, or you can eat in one of the many cafes dotted around the park. Daddy Pigs Big Tummy cafe was our choice!

TO ENTER…

• Fill in the Rafflecopter widget below to verify your entries
• Entries can be via blog comment, Facebook, Twitter etc
• Please read the rules below
• Closing date Midnight 18th March 2012

How Rafflecopter Works

• If there is no form hit refresh (f5) and it should appear
• If it still not working check that your computer is running Javascript
• You need to complete the mandatory entry first – usually making a blog comment
• Rafflecopter will tweet, like and follow on your behalf making it really easy to enter!
• Really want to win the prize? Come back every day for bonus entries via Twitter

To be in with a chance of winning this fabulous prize, please enter using the rafflecopter form below:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

A Breastfeeding Journey

I am very lucky to have been able to breastfeed all 5 of my children.  I have awful memories of being manhandled by a midwife when my oldest was born, as I was really struggling in the beginning.  It was only my sheer determination to feed her myself that eventually got me through (and a bucket load of Kamillosan).  Thankfully that has now changed and there is much better help and care out there for everyone.

My oldest is 18 (yes, I know - I don't look old enough) - and there just weren't the facilities back then to be able to feed when out and about.  You certainly couldn't feed a baby in a restaurant without being asked to leave (or sit in a toilet).  I have many memories of being sat in the green in Worthing town centre trying to feed discreetly.  There weren't even breastfeeding tops then!!

Thankfully, times have changed with each of my children.  By the time I had Isaac (now 4), nursing tops were common place and these have been my saviour.  So comfortable and the ability to feed discreetly when out and about.  I also discovered Lansinoh cream which was a godsend in those early days to help with sore nipples.

You would have thought after successfully breastfeeding 4 gorgeous babies, that number 5 would have been a breeze.  I have to admit that she was the hardest.  I fed her almost instantly when she was born and she was fine, but overnight she cried and cried and just didn't seem able to latch properly.  I had gestational diabetes whilst pregnant, so it was even more vital she fed regularly as her sugars could go dangerously low whilst her body adapted.  I was devastated when her sugars dipped below the advised minimum and the nurses gave her formula (from a dropper on my insistence).

We went home late the next day after they were happy that her sugar levels had stabilised and I hoped we would settle into a routine.  I noticed that she preferred one side to the other, but didn't think much more of it.

Within a couple of days my nipples were cracked and bleeding.  Not even the Laninsoh would sooth them and I was at my wits end.  The Health Visitor put me in contact with a Breastfeeding counsellor who was a brilliant help and suggested I try nipple shields and a breast pump just to get me through.  There is nothing worse than trying to latch a baby onto badly cracked nipples - I cringe thinking about it now.

When baby was a couple of weeks old, I decided that something was wrong as she wasn't opening her mouth fully and therefore not latching correctly.  With two of my older children I had seen a chiropractor as both suffered with colic and was advised that chiropractors could help.  They worked wonders with my older two, so I gave my now qualified friend Nic a call.

He saw us straight away, did an assessment and discovered that her neck and jaw were stiff.  If you have read my birth post, you will know she was born with her arm up by her head (superman style).  A few gentle manipulations later, instructions to encourage her to turn her head the way she didn't want to and an appointment for 3 days time we were sent home.

I noticed an improvement almost immediately, she seemed settled for the first time in weeks and was feeding well.  On the next appointment he was so pleased with her improvement he signed us off with strict instructions to call if we needed him.

Finally things settled down and over the course of the next few weeks we got into a routine and my nipples healed as she was latching correctly.  We are now a year into breastfeeding happily with no further problems.  My advise is, if you are struggling, get help quick, be it 1st, 5th or 10th baby as they are all different!

Emma Talbot - The New Face of John Crane

I have been following John Crane on twitter for some time as I am passionate about wooden toys - I feel that they out perform and out last most modern plastic toys.  In fact they are perfect to keep and hand me down to the next generation.

Last week John Crane was offering a limited edition print by Emma Talbot, whom they have just announced as their new illustrator.  All new Tidlo toys from John Crane Ltd will feature Emma's illustrations - so whether it's a puzzle, a farm or a cuddly plush the magic will shine through.

I jumped at the chance of owning this beautiful illustration of a Panda, not only because my daughter has a Jungle themed room, but my family have worked in fine art for many years and I really appreciate all the hard work that goes into creating these masterpieces.  All I need to do now is get it framed!

Whilst doing my research for this piece, I have discovered Emma on twitter @LittleRabbit and she even has her own blog which I am now following!  I am afraid that there are no more Panda limited edition prints available and I am not giving up mine, but she has some gorgeous rabbit illustrations and cards here.  I am going to invest in the Valentine's card - it's gorgeous!

I cannot wait to see more of Emma's illustrations on the Tidlo toys, and it gives me the perfect excuse to buy them all! 

If you want more information about the wonderful John Crane Ltd then why not follow their blog for news and updates.

The Art of Story Telling

I am a regular attendee of Playfest on twitter, hosted by the lovely @izziwizzi on a Tuesday evening between 8.30 and 10.00pm.

Tuesday's discussion was all about the art of story telling and Izziwizzi challenged us to make up our own story. 

I started ours off and the gorgeous @BlueBearWood joined me.  I am rather impressed with our effort (remember this was on twitter so limited to 140 characters) .....what do you think?

CM - Once upon a time there was a Piglet called Percy and he loved to snuffle around in the mud

BBW - But on this particular day Percy found something in the mud he would never forget

CM - but what was it you ask?

BBW - It was very long and flat with two pokey out things

CM - and it was smooth to the touch and sparkled the brightest rainbow when the sunshine shone

BBW - Percy pulled and pulled with all his might until he had it out of the mud.  "Cough, splutter" said the flat thing

CM - Percy was taken aback - "It can talk" he whispered under his breath

BBW - "Of course I can talk you silly Pig.  What else does a magical sword do? - Now hold me high so I can see where I am"

CM - Percy held the sword aloft and the sword gave himself a little shake, showering Percy in mud.  "Clean at last" he laughed

BBW - "I never thought a Pink Pig would save me from the Bog Monster.  Quick we must head to Bluebell Wood and find the Prince"

CM -  "He has the magic shield and you should see what we can do when we are together"

BBW - Percy thought for a moment.  It was nearly lunchtime and he was a little hungry, plus he'd never left Mud Bank before

CM - The sword, sensing his reluctance promised lots of lovely berries to eat on the way to the forest

BBW - "Just follow your nose" said the sword, "it will lead us in the right direction". So with a mouthful of berries

CM - Off they trotted to find the Prince and the shield.  Suddenly there was a loud bang that made them stop and look

That was the end of the transcript from playfest, but I thought I should end it:

CM - "What was that" Percy whispered, afraid

CM - "Hold me high and let me see" said the sword

CM - Once again Percy held the Sword aloft, but this time the sword burst into fits of laughter

CM - Percy looked up and in the reflection of the sword, saw a rather crumpled pile of clothing that appeared to be shaking

CM - "What is it" asked Percy fearfully

CM - "Why it's the Prince" said the sword "He has fallen out of the tree and the shield has turned into a bouncy castle to save him"

CM - With that, the Prince, still chuckling, beckoned Percy onto the bouncy castle, where they bounced and bounced for the rest of the day, whilst the sword looked on and imagined what new adventures they would get up to tomorrow.

THE END!

On the back of this, Andrea from @BlueBearWood has decided that she is going to start a bloghop about storytelling.  Keep you eyes peeled for updates on her Blog.

If you fancy joining Izziwizzi kids for another Playfest on the art of Storytelling, then drop by their Facebook Page tonight between 8.30 and 10.00 pm and follow them on twitter and/or facebook for updates on their future twitter parties.  They really are the place to be seen!

If you cannot attend and want to see what tips and suggestions the attendees came up with then visit the Izziwizzi website, or search #playfest on twitter.

Tasty Thursday - Chocolate Orange Cupcakes

Today I am going to share with you the world's simplest cupcake recipe, which is a hit with both the little ones and adults of the family.  In fact they are such a hit, that I often get orders from hubby's staff too:

Ingredients

115g / 4oz Butter (softened)
115g / 4oz Caster Sugar
2 Eggs Lightly Beaten
115g / 4oz Self Raising Flour

Instructions

1. Preheat tye oven to 190 C or 375 F (Gas Mark 5) and line two x 12 hole bun tins with 16 paper cases.  (I often double the mixture to make more)
2. Place the butter and sugar in a large bowl and beat together until light and fluffy, then gradually beat in the eggs
3. Sift the flour and fold into the mixture
4. Spoon the mixture into the paper cases



Add caption

5. Bake in a preheated oven for 15-20 minutes and transfer to a wire rack to cool.

If you want to make different flavours you can adapt:

Orange - Add the grated rind of 1/2 orange to the cake mixture after beating in the eggs.
Lemon - Add the grated rind of 1/2 Lemon to the cake mixture after beating in the eggs
Chocolate - Replace 25g of the flour with two tablespoons of Cocoa Powder (nake sure this is sieved)
Coffee - Dissolve two tablespoons of Instant coffee into 3 tablespoons of Boiling water.  Add two thirds to the cake mixture after beating in the eggs.  (Save the remainder for the icing)
Vanilla  - Add a teaspoon of Vanilla Essense after beating in the eggs

Once the cakes are completely cool, they are ready to be iced.  I use Buttercream:

Ingredients

1. 225g / 8oz Butter, softened
2. 1 Tbsp Cream or Milk
3. 350g / 12oz Icing Sugar

Instructions

Place the Butter and Cream into a bowl and beat together.  Gradually Sift in the Icinig sugar and beat until smooth.
Variations

• Orange or Lemon: substitute fresh Orange or Lemon juice for the cream and add a little Orange or Yellow food colouring.
• Chocolate Buttercream:  Replace 55g / 2oz of the icing sugar with Cocoa
• Coffee:  substitute the Mil with the remaining coffee mixture used to make the cakes

To Ice, I use a disposable icing bag and a large nozzle.  Make sure you twist the open end tightly shut (or it could get messy) and swirl the icing on from outside into the middle to make a peak.

And just because it's almost Valentines Day, I have added some dark chocolate sprinkles for added induldence!!

I have entered these Cupcakes into English Mum's Baked with Love Bakeoff

Thrifty Tips

I hold my hands up - I have always been a bit of a bargain hunter.  Hubby despairs of me sometimes as I drag him round the shops to find what I want and then come home and trawl the internet to find it cheaper.

It works though.  We had a new kitchen installed in 2010 after years of saving hard, and I saved hundreds of £'s.

Last year's finances worried me as I was on maternity leave and we simply didn't have a great deal of money coming in (we still don't), but I wanted to share with you how we did Christmas for £50

I am guessing you have all heard of the Nectar Card from Sainsbury's.  I had one in my wallet, but unlike Tesco Clubcard, I didn't really get it and didn't use it - until last year.

Did you know that you can collect Nectar points just by searching online?

Just download the Toolbar and away you go.

You can also earn Nectar points on purchases from Amazon, eBay, Thorntons, Homebase etc the list goes on and on!

There are often triple / double points offers on and these can really rack up your points!!  You have to be strict with yourself and not redeem them throughout the year to get the benefit at Christmas, but it really is worth it.

We rarely shop at Sainsbury's but by using the toolbar and earning points through general shopping online, we had over £125 worth of points for Christmas 2011.

Add this to our Tesco Clubcard vouchers which we also save for Christmas and their double up promotion, we saved around £400!!

What are you waiting for - starting collecting those points now!

For more thrifty tips why not visit Family Budgeting and her Thrifty Families Blog Carnival

Silent Sunday

Raspberry and Lemon Muffins

We love to bake in our house and I can often be found baking up a storm in the kitchen. Here is my Raspberry and Lemon Muffin recipe, which is perfect with a nice hot cuppa:

Ingredients

4 Tbsp Sunflower Oil
75ml Milk
1 Large Egg
150g Self Raising flour
100g Caster Sugar
175g Fresh or Frozen Raspberries
4 Tbsp Icing Sugar
2 Tbsp Lemon Juice

Instructions

1.  Preheat oven to 200C, or 180C for a fan oven.  Line a six hole deep muffin tray with paper cases

2.  Mix the Oil, Milk and Egg together

3.  Sift the flour and sugar into a bowl.

4.  Add the liquid and half the raspberries to the flour and mix until just coming together

5.  Spoon into the muffin cases and scatter over the remaining raspberries.  Bake for 25-30 minutes.

6.  Cool the muffins on a wire rack.  Sift the icing sugar into a bowl, stir in the lemon juice to make a runny icing.

7.  Drizzle over the muffins and leave to set

Finally - sit down, put your feet up and emjoy with a cuppa!!

I am entering our muffins into English Mums Baked with Love Bake off