Camping success.

Last weekend we ventured out on our first camping trip as a familt of five. Armed with our new to us six man tent and a carfull of camping papaphernalia off we went to Milton Keynes.
Arrived at the campsite in the pouring rain and it didn't stop. John and I got soaked getting the tent up. Col and Marley arrived just as we were putting the last few guy rope on. I swear they were parked up somewhere watching us the get the thing up.
The place we stayed was called Grove Lock Marina. It was ideal, plenty of space for the kids to run, they allowed ball games and best of all there was a little shelter complete with fire, picnic table, chairs, wood and coal with a note saying help ourselves, which we did. Dad and Lynsey turned up later to their caravan.
We tried the contain the kids in the tent but in the end it was easier to suit and boot them in waterproofs and wellies and let them run off steam which they did for most the evening. The shelter and fire was a Godsend and we made the most of it. Cooking our tea of hotdogs and soup followed by hot chocolate and toasted marshmellows. Apart from me thinming I would squash Iz on the airbed and the air bed having a hole. We all slept well.

Bletchley Park was the plan for the next day. So Col and I managed to cook a cooked breakfast for everyone on two ringed stove. The weather seemed better, so we packed a picnic and off we went.
Bletchley was ok, but it was dull for the kids. Marley is really into war and there hardly anything that interested him. There was lots of reading but it didn't relate tot he children even though we told them the interesting bits. There wasn't a lot of sfuff to look at either. It was disappointing.

Take a breath

As much as I love the children being at home and me not working, the novelty is starting to wear off. I think it is the noise and the mess. We have never been a completely tidy house, but the toys scattered around at the moment. I have imposed a nightly tidy up before a film then bed.
Heading camping next week which will be a change of scenery. I do love them being at home and spending time with them, I just could do with a few mintues of peace.

Stanwick Lakes

On Sunday before we picked up the tent we visited Stanwick Lakes, near Kettering. It wasn't a place I had heard of before,but we would definitely be going again.
It start off with it is free, apart from the car park charge of £5.50, which is great. There is an enormous wooden play area, with a little stream running at the bottom of it, which had stepping stones. There is a water play bit, with pumps, puddles, pipes and dams. As well as that there is a small sand bit for younger children. There are also tunnel slides which if you go down you end up in a big puddle at the bottom.

Before we ventured into the playarea we took a short walk area the lakes. Blackberries were ready so the kids picked and eat them as we went. We came across some interesting scuptures as well as a some assult course. Even though there is a cafe we took a picnic and despite the rain, had it under a tree. Than had a go on the assult course which was a lottle big for my three. After we headed back to the play area and after a much need coffee and ice cream the kids dived in and splashed about until they were almost unrecognisable and covered in water, sand and mud. Taking spare clothes is a most, as are wellies for parents if you are not a fan of getting your feet wet.

Let the camping begin. Thank to Shpock

So the camping bug returns. John and I did it loads, but a few trips with a baby grumpy James out us off. Apart from in the garden or at other people houses.
However, I've been itching to get a tent and try and again.
This is what we have brought. Vango, Colorado 600. It is a monster. I managed to get it for £50 from Shpock seconded. We pick it up on Sunday, I'm hoping it is in good nick. So looking forward to our trip.

Rainy day

Rain and the cold has put playing in the paddling pool on hold so for something different to entertain the kids had a go at cake decorating.
I mixed a few different colours up. Minecraft colours for James and pink for Pen, gave them cutters, rolling pin and let them go.
These are the results.

They tasted great too.

Summer fun.

As we took our main holiday at Easter, we are staying much closer to home during the holidays.
Today we tried some of the free things which are in Sleaford. First we ventured to the National craft and design centre. Every Tuesday they have a family workshop based on dressing up. This week it is millinery. Penny (James was ill) was able to design and created her own hat, she based it on pink (see below).
Then we had lunch followed by a trip to the library to sign up for the Summer Reading Challenge. The children have to read 6 books over Summer, along the way they get smelly stickers and at the end a medal. We also found out that esch morning the library does junk modelling, which we will try and get to next week. Then we headed to the park for a play. All in all a very good day. Looking forward to next week.

Pennys hat, but not her jacket, they had dressing up clothes.

Sleepy Penny

The heat got a little too much for Penny and she fell asleep during her story. Busy day school, park then a walk and ice cream followed by a splash about inthe pool.

Day 2 Legoland

After a great nights sleep and feeling refreshed by a fantastic buffet breakfast, and with Izzy with us, we headed back to Legoland for day 2.
The idea today was to chill out do the splash play bits, the models and the shows. Which is more or less what we did.
After the Star Wars Lego models which were very impressive. We headed straight away (a few miss started invovling missing shoes, and new pants) to splash play as we though people would do that at the end of the day. It was great, swimsuits on all three loved the smaller water area, even Izzy braved putting her foot on a spout. We headed up to the larger, splashier site. It was too much for Iz, my fault as we got caught in the bucket that tips water everywhere, I shielded her with me body but she stil, go splashed. John took her back to the little one. Penny and James braved the small green side but the others were too big. It was too splashy for them. Children were fighting water cannon in their faces so we left and went back down.
We saw a puppet show about Cinderella which Penny and Izzy enjoyed. Despite it being a Saturday the fairytale bit was quiet and we went on the duplo train and a fairytale boat ride, balloon ride, hot air ride and the horses, all of which Izzy was allowed on. We also had a play on the play area and an ice cream to cool down. Izzy was getting tired so she had a nap and we looked around all the lego models, which were very impressive and what .i think Legoland is all about. We watched a Heartlake show again. James wanted to go on Ninjago again, so we headed back. Again, as it was getting late there was hardly any queues. James was bouncing ul and down in the queue he was so excited. The last ride we visited was the spider spin carts, which I didn't like.
Again we had another fab day. I'm please we booked 2 days. I don't think you can do it in 1 day and I would have been disappointed in the things we managed to see. The hotel was fantastic, right near the aiport, so we could watch the planes.
It was helpful that my kids were a delight to take out. We left happy, tired and with lego to build.

Everything was awesome.

Have had a fab few days at Legoland. Wasn't too sure what to expect as I hate queues, people, paying for expensive food, the normal stuff you get with theme parks. But I/we loved it. LOVED IT.
We arrived for 10am, and walked in as we had paid tickets. We went go straight on the rapids, which was my favourite. We headed straight to Ninjago rides as that was what James wanted to do most. Straight onto the Destiny Bounty, followed by a short wait to get onto the important Ninjago ride. This is a cart on a track which moves onto 3d area where you zap bad guys by waving your arms around like crazy. It was OK but I missed quite a bit as it scared Penny and she hid.
Also high up on James list was Nexo knights, by this time it was starting to get a bit busy, but was waited about 20min for each ride there. Again Penny wasn't keen but she kept going on them like a trooper.
After a picnic lunch, we headed to the Pharaoh rides, which John enjoyed the shooting one. I definitely didn't like the bouncing beetle thing.
By this time it was getting on and the bus trips were starting to head home, yay. The place quieted down and the next series of ride we walked straight on. Penny was beginning to get tried but she perked up on the horses. Missed out on the balloons due to a loo stop, but caught the end of a Heartlake show which she said was really good.
The submarine ride was a suprise, as I was expect lego fish not a whole aquarium which sharks. Lego city provided the last few ride which was Pennys favourite. The car driving. She was so pleased to get her licence. I even purchased a fake licence with her and James picture on it. She went on it three time, trying out different colour cars, apparently blue is the best to drive. She even wanted to drive home.
We also had a go on the fire engiune ride. It puffed me out pumping to move the engine then and so James could out out the fire.
We didn't get out of the car park before both were alseep in  the car.

Legoland here we come.

We are off to Legoland on Friday. James has been perate to go for years but we put it off because Penny was too small for the rides, then we have Iz and have the same problem.
Luckly, Kate lives not too far away and she is having Iz, meaning we might get around everything a bit easier.
I managed to find a offer, two day in the park and a hotel for £200. Which mean on the Saturday Iz can join us and we can do the other stuff which she can access.
I'm really looking forward to it.

Bunk bed are up

All three kids wanted to share a room and as Iz is a bit older we decided bunk bed were essential. So a major upheaval has happened in our house hold. Blue single bed is now my anti snoring bed, the cot is heading out, Iz is in the toddler bed in the big room, James is on the top bunk and Penny bottom.
So far James and Penny are loving it. However, Iz hasn't taken to the move. The little rebel won't stay in bed she is either raiding Penny or heading downstairs armed with teddies and her drink. If told itnis bedtime she gives us a firm "no.". She doesn't say many word but no is a large part of her vocab. 10 o clock she finally is settling. I seem to remember the other two being the same when they moved on fro  the cot. Hopefully it will settle down soon,

New car

At last after over 2 week I have a new (to me) car. Not too sure of it yet. I need to have a play with it. It seems huge, it has 7 seats so I can seperate the kids or John is they are playing up. 

Where is Daddy?

Izzie favourite thing it say is Where's Daddy gone?  And answering there is. Sometime she mixes it up with James or teddy. If you ask her what for dinner it is normally cheese which she gets out of the fridge for you.

Penny is 4. Yay

After nearly a year of wait she has finally made it to 4.

We organised a party for the afternoon. The excitment got a bit too much for her and 10min before the party she conked out.

But soon got into the swing of things once people arrived. Pressie first, followed by making crowns. Then luckly enough the sun was out so a play in the garden. Followed by pass the parcel, hunt the eggs and musical statues.
It was the most relaxed party I have done there were 4 friend from school, Beth and 2 siblings James ages.
We got her a Sylvanian family boat, hula hoop, Jess outfit and flying fairy. She also recieved horse riding lesson, horse dancing barbie, post office and fuzzy felt, aqua beads and colour bag, glimmies, fairy, dogs and play dough and lego. She was very lucky.

Cowgirl Penny

For Pennys 4th birthday Grandma got her a horse riding lesson. She absolutely loved it and wants to go again. She was able to kick and get the horse to trot, had a go at standing up and down and held the reins correctly.

Think we might have started a very expensive hobby.

Allotment fun

Half term, hurrah.
Term for fun and frolics in the sun. A weeks of no arguing, yelling, no facebooking, just family fun.

Yay right it lasted 2 days. 2 DAYS!!

Then the yelling start (me) and the arguing (the kids). But hay ho. We are makinb the most of the sun and enjoying the allotment.

We all (apart from John) enjoy being there. The kids like the access to the water and mud. I enjoy all kf it, even the digging. Especially this time of year when thing are really starting to grow.

James has learnt to ride hus bike without stabilisers and as promised has upgraded he toddler bike to a big boys one which he can ride but not stop.

I've put a deposit on a new to me car. A 7 seater yay.

Easter eggs

Penny won an Easter colouring competition and received an chocolate egg. Yay.

Penny's masterpiece.

However, she can't have chocolate, so forward planning me got a dairy free one and stashed it away until she picked it her prize. The one she won has a butterfly on it, when I tried to swap it with her, her bottom lip started to wobble. "But I love blutterbies." Then she ask if I could break it and take James' milk out and put her milk in. When I explained we can't she started to get sad again. So hopefully I made a solution. It isn't great but it might work. This is my attempt at a butterfly egg.

Fingers crossed

Screwy up face

Izzy does this screwy up face thing. She closes her eyes realy tight and screws up her face, then you have to do it. Which makes her get the giggles. Repeat. She does it while she eats and when she is in your arms having a bottle. She is a snuggly, giggly little thing.

Easter Celebration

James and Penny had their Easter celebration show today. It was the first time I have seen Penny perform as I was working at the Christmas play. They were both great. James had the vital role of the sound effect of a kiss in the sound effect role of Judas. Penny's class did songs and the story of Little Red Riding Hood. They also sang the Spring Chicken song. Great stuff. They seem to have both settled in beautifully. I'm sp proud of them.

Happy Mothers Day

I have had a lovely Mothers day. The children each got me a card and inside some seeds which they have choosen. Penny pink ones, James edible cornflowers and Iz sunflowers. I also got a book, flash, a is it tea you are looking for mug and James made me a sticker chart and if I get all my stickers I got some peace and quiet.
Lovely stuff.

A productive day.

Following on from this morning post. I dug and tidied the allotment for 40mins. Quite enjoyed it. I have cleaned the nasty, scummy grime in the washing machine and dishwasher. Cleaned the floor and baked chocolate cakes.

We have stopped Izzy bottle at night. She justs it to help her sleep, like a dummy. The last 2 nights we have given her milk before bed and nap. This is in the hope she starts to self soothe, as we are getting up to her twice a night and she is having more milk to settle, then she is leaking through her nappy.
The first night she wouldn't settle so I stayed in her room to comfort her, took ages. She would cry if I left her. Last night, she chuntered to herself and was a little grizzly but slept without me in the room. For her nap today she has gone striaight to sleep. Fingers crossed for tonight.

Spring

This morning I'm off, for the first time since Oct, to the allotment. Last year I did so well and loved it. It was my sanctuary. This year i seem to have no inclination to do anything, whether it is sewing, making cakes or the allotment. I seem to have become reluctant to leave the house. I'm having to force myself to change. So it starts on this beautiful Spring morning. Hopefully I will improve.

The big birthday bash

Last Sunday was James birthday party. He decided he wanted a party in the hall.  Luckly, one of his friends had a birthday the day before so we were able to do a joint one.
I managed cakes and party games and the other mum the hot food. It went well, apart from musical chairs which was a bit rubbish as the stero wasn't very loud.
We had pass the parel, hunt the gems and bashed a darth vader pinata.
Lots of people came including Hol, Beth, Charlie and Marley. Plus all his school friends.
However, it was a lot of hard work and I'm working on Penny to have a Princess tea party at home.

Pictures to follow.

James is 6

Today is James birthday. 6 years old. 

This morning we were awoken by a very excitable 6 year old and Penny. We bounced (not me) down stairs to open prezzies. A crystal growing kit, anklyozord (which was a nightmare to find), bouncing T rex thing that turns into a charger and from Penny, a Star Wars Masher and a activity book. He said they were the best presents ever, so alls good.

We had Star Wars birthday cake for breakfast and opened all his cards. He got quite a bit of money. He offered it to me saying it was for a day out (cat grandma gave him money for a day at Wheelgate). He was thrilled when we said he could go to the toy shop and choose a toy, the rest will go in his bank. 

It was school today, first day back after half term. He ran in, very excited to show off his badges and tell them what he go and share his sweets out. 

Sunday is his party, a joint one with Ruth. I think I'm about sorted apart from doing the cakes. Will be relived when they are finished. 

Some of my favourite pictures.

I have many favourite photos, but these are one that make me smile. They were take a while ago now. 

 Penny, not long after I have Izzy. She is breastfeeding dolly.

This one somes up the organised chaos of bedtime. 

Fab parents evening

Over this last week we have had parents evening for Penny and James.
As expected they are both thriving in their school. Apart from the odd moments of "I don't want to go." They both go in happy and come out tired but smiling.
 Pennys teacher say she listens and sits well and is starting the read in a group and have imput. She plays nicely and gets on well with her friends. Considering she is only in there two morning she is doing well.

James was called one of the high flyers. He listen and takes everything in and when he does his work he adds in lots of little details. He reading and writing is coming along. He just needs to realise that it is ok to make mistakes as he can get upset if he think he has done something wrong.

We are really proud of them both.

Wow.

I'm feeling slightly smug this evening. It doesn't happen very often, but after tryjng out a new recipe of chicken and rice noodle soup, everyone ate it all. No moans, no "I don't like that and no poking it about. They even asked for more.

Passing the time

Since Christmas I have only had one day back at work. While I'm enjoying the time off I thought I would make the most of it by Spring cleaning the house and spend some quality time with Penny and Izzy.

However, I find playing with Penny quite boring after a while. Role play really isn't my thing. I'm more at home with James building and making stuff, but Penny has little interest in that and like it when I play dress up or Princesses, which is OK for about 20minutes. So we had started cooking and bird watching, play group and hoovering to past the day.

The Spring cleaning was going well, but instead of having the whole house beautiful and tidy I only seem to get one room sorted at a time. Currently it is the downstairs toilet. The children only have to walk into a room and within seconds it is cluttered with clothes ( why can't they keep their clothes on?) Toys, cushions, the funiture moves round different places, parts of lego makes, drawings or things Izzy can choke on stack on the windowstill. It is like living with poltergeists. As soon as James gets in from school you can follow a trail of him. Shoes off at the door, book bag on the kitchen unit, coat near the living room door. Not to meantion Pennys complete inability to flush the chain at the moment, she was fine but seems to have relasped. Izzy, not on to be left out has discovered cupboards and stuff in cupboard, namely the baking one with flour and sugar.

Still it keep me busy.

This is my first selfie. Penny was insisting that we wear witches hats. "You have to be a witch to drink coffee and red juice."

Easy sweetcorn and pea fritters.

As work is drying up I'm having to rein in the food budget a bit, this way we can still do nice things with the kids.

Yesterday, Penny and I made a lunch of sweetcorn fritters. Quick easy and cheap. I thought I would share the recipe.

1 can of sweetcorn
Handful of frozen peas
100g plain flour (we use Self rasing gluten free flour)
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 egg
150ml milk (lactose free for Penny)
Salt, pepper anything else the flavour

Drain the sweetcorn, discard the juice.
Mix the flour and baking powder in a big bowel.
Add the egg and milk and mix until smooth.
Add the sweetcorn and pea and mix.
Oil a frying pan. When hot spoon a blob of the mixture into the pan and turn when brown. Easy. The whole thing should have taken 10mins but I had Penny helping so it took much longer.
You can freeze the cooked fritters, add chilli, or paprika, pepper, carrots anything left over.
We eat them just with a bit of tomato sauce for Penny and sweet chilli sauce for me. Then had them as a side with the gammon for tea.
Definitely one to do again. I think they cost about 60p to make and I made 10.

January blues and bugs.

We haven't had the best start to 2017. James has already had a week off school due to, what we think was, flu. He has today off again due to a dodgy tummy and Penny is off because we think she is now coming down with flu. Luckily, Izzy (touch wood) has been bug free, but she has had some back teeth through do is a bit grizzly.

Izzy has become quite attached to a blanket teddy thing. Today she wouldn't settle without it. It might become another dolly, who I'm terrified we may lose at some point.

At the beginning of the month we were invited to a wedding of John's step brother. It was beautiful.

Prep is underway for organising James' birthday party. Invites are already to go out. Katie is face painting and I'm incharge of fun and games. What possible could go wrong?

Pic of James in the snow. We had a small flurry one morning. I've never seen James get dressed so quickly when we said he could go out in it. 

Happy New Year

This is a long over due post. Sorry.

Christmas 2016 was an outstanding success. Father Christmas arrived armed with zords, dogs, robots, and trains much to the children delight. I also got treated to 2 lovely dresses, some much need make up and a much need weekend away to Chester for the whole family.
Christmas Eve mum, Austin, Katie and Rod visited. Cue presents and cat bingo. Katie and Rod stopped over, luckily for then Father Christmas was on the ball and had a special stocking for them Christmas morning.

James woke in the night needed the toliet he chevked Santa had been (he had) then checked Santa had left something for Penny ( he had) then when back too bed. I'm  not sure I could have slept like that. They go up about 5.30 and arrived in our bed armed with their stockings. Once we knew Katie and Rod were awake we opened all the presents from downstairs. Izzy missed all the action and got up about 8.30. She didn't really get opening presents but was quite happy playing with bits.

Christmas dinner we had in the lion with Dad, Janet and Paul. It was nice and the kids behaved. James spent most of his time on his smart watch figuring it out and Penny took her ears gloves (muffs) which was her favourite present.

The afternoon consisted of more presents and more food. The children when to bed at normal time so it was nice to play a few games.

Boxing day we mooched in the morning then when to Johns dads for more presents and food. Then the day after we visited Kerry and had more presents and food. It was nice that Christmas lasted more than just one day and that we didn't feel obliged to rush round and visit everyone at once.

Looking forward to 2017. X

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas.

So, this weekend I managed a night out with some other mums. excellent evening. The next morning the kids bound it bouncing on the bed asking for the Christmas tree to be put up.
So, three Christmas later (Is pulled on over) we head for Sleaford Christmas market. we are all well and truly  in the Christmas mood now.

There is no stopping Is at the moment, she is walking all over the place. we also have a few words, bath, mum and cat.
The picture is a rarity in our house, the kids were promised the tree would go up as soon as the living room was tidy.

Go Iz

Yesterday, while we were holidaying aye John's mums caravan in Mablethorpe, Izzy took her first steps. Not only did I see it (thought I wold miss it due to work) when I called John over she took two steps to him. She also had a go again today. There will no stopping her now.

Counting down to half term.

As much as I am loving the money and almost the job. I'm hating the family life balance, juggling aspect to working. Hats off to all those who have no option I don't understand how you have the time or the energy to work full time, clean the house and spend quality time with the children without getting ratty at them and to have a few minutes to yourselves.

I have two clingy daughters who as soon as I walk through the door a fighting for my cuddles and attention. I arrive home just to before bedtime which isn't the calmest in our house. I have had to give up feeding Izzy as it as hard work and painful if I missed a feed. She wasn't too bothered, if fact she refused me not the other way round. The house if compete tip so instead of spending the weekend with the kids I'm having to do house work at least one day.

So we are all looking forward to the half term. A few days away in Mablethorpe followed by fun days at home and ending with me time in London.

2 week in.

2 weeks in and it really seems like the holiday are a far off distance memory. James has settled into his year 1 class beautiful, though trying to get him to tell us about his day is like blood from a stone. We sometime get what he had for lunch and that's it. Penny has also settled in well, though she seems to bensure having a few blips. On Tuesday she told me she was sad because Mrspb Stew told her off because she wanted to go outside and wasn't allowed but went anyway and the week before she was sad because she went across the yellow line to see James and she wasn't allow. Think they may have their hands full. Though she is a year younger than when James started and still learning the rules. She has a friend call Girl Luke which is nice.
As for me I think I'm finding it more difficult then the lot of them and I've definitely shed more tears. Hope fully thinkg-string will settle down soon, either that or they will sack me.

Here a pic of Iz, she has just dis covered the art of climbing. The joy in her face when she see the door has been left open and she can get to the stairs. She is aL so on the cusp of walking. I'm trying to encourage it because I done want to miss her first steps.

Summers over.

So tomorrow is the kids are back at school and I start my new job. We are all very nervous and excited by this. The bags, schools are all ironed and ready to go. Penny is start James school but in the preschool class for two mornings a week. She is bouncing round about it. James is quiet I think the nerves are setting but he is looking forward to seeing his friends. The new Power Rangers are on tomorrow he is more excited about that.

Fun, sand and frolics

So Summer hols are all most over and we have filled every moment of it to the brim. We have been on lots of weekends away and days out. Just to list a few, Finding Dory, Bowling, amusements, Fox Talbot, Hot air balloons, Belton, picnics, play dates, camping, fires and marshmallows,  glamping, Wales and paddling. Dovedale, walks in woods, splash pools, rivers, dingys, rides, slides, Heckington show, BBQs, dentists, optitions and haircuts,  caravans, wooden huts, tents and hotels. Sand, donkeys and so much more.

Mummy Penny

Penny has recently enjoyed playing Mummy's with her babies. Up until now she her dollies have sat under her bed. Apart from Dolly who never leaves her side.
This is Penny feeding her baby.

Spa, picnics and Wooki es.

We have started our Summer holidays early. Thanks to a wowcher voucher i managed to get 5 hours at Belton Wood Spa for 2 people for  £12 including pastries and coffee. Bargain. Col and I went there Wednesday. Really enjoyed catching up and chilling out. The spa was OK, bit rough round the edges, building work was going on which didn't help. The pool was lovely though.
Yesterday Jamés was at the zoo with school so we ventured out to Belton house for aa play and picnic. Penny enjoyed all the attention, we even when on the train.
Penny has been watching Star Wars, thanks to Uncle Rod, both James and Penny play Where's Wooki while watching it. Much to my amusment and John embarrassment Penny has taken to shouting "there's Wooki." at men with beards.

Loving the allotment

So after a few days of not keeping up with the lottie, we all, including Iz who slept through the whole thing, desended on the alloment to venture war on the weeds. 2 hours later we manged to clear half of it. The kids had picked everything that was ready and eaten about half of it before we got home. They loved it, they found raspberries, peas, spring onions, the last of the strawberries, beetroot,  blackcurrants and lettuces. The excited of digging and finding potatoes. All of us were rooting looking for them. I'm surprised anything grows as the kids trample everything and John pulled up all the swedes thinking they were weeds. I love it.
Spend the rest of the afternoon freezing peas, boiling beetroots to make beetroot and brie pie, and making potato salad. Yummy.
Other news Iz is now crawling around, looking in drawers and generally being nosey. She is even trying to stand but can only get one leg up. Tonight she had a tooth peeping thought. My little girls gummy smile of going.

Level 2

This week something seems to have clicked with James reading. He has always read his school books most evenings. Last week his teacher went though all his words with him and as a result moved him up a reading level. I think this has boosted his confidence no end and suddenly ZOOOOOOM. He is engaged and excited to be reading and aiming to get to the next level.

Circle of life

So for the last few weeks we have had pets in our household. 5 tiny tiny catapillers in begin with. Both Penny and James have been totally fascinated by them, checking them every day, looking at how much them have eaten, pooped, grown. Penny made and painted a house for them to be transfered into once them had made their cystitis. Unfortunately, one of the catapillers didn't make it so we were left with 4. By golly they eat, no wonder my cabbages have suffered.
When the first butterfly emerged as instructed we put some sugar water is the bottom of the box. Unfortunately, the butterfly seemed to get the sticky stuff on its wings and struggled to fly. We let him every go with the hope it would survive.
When the next one was released it stayed in the garden for a bit. Penny was thrilled she was able to watch on the flowers. The next two however suffered, upon release one was promptly eaten by a sparrow much to James and my horror. The other was last seen being chased by a sparrow. James was quite put out by it and upset. Penny however was very excited and eager to tell John what hado happened. Tried to explain to James about the birds feeding the baby birds with it and that's how they survive. His response was he would rather have lots of butterflies than birds.
At times life sucks.

Funny Penny

Little things Penny says

What's up guys?

Bub bly = butterfly

I'm not monkey, I'm Penny.

I received a pair of shoes in the post. Penny was very excited to open one. The got a "WOW, there's two." As she opened the other one.

"James, wear Anne dress."
"No"
"Ohh, but it's lovely" stroking dress. "James wear Anna."
"No"
"But it's lovely, lovely."

Today she wanted Anna hair, after putting it into 2 little plaits, she popped on her Anna dress. I shown her herself I  the mirror. "I'm beautiful." Slightly narastic but complete correct.

"I love it" and "I don't love it"

"My foots got headache."

Penny doesn't do PE at nursery she calls it PE kits.

Because Penny doesn't like bangs. she wanted some ear gloves (ear muffs) for bonfire night.

16.2.17
Pennys brain has started talking to her. She keeps refering to it.

Me"Penny can yoi see the funny house?"
Penny "My brain talked to me and said yes"

Me"Penny would you like a drink."
Penny. "My brain says yes."

She also tell me her tummy says it is hungry.

I think it stems from reading James body book,

Learning to sew

As the title states I'm trying to teach myself to sew and dressmaking. So far I've managed to create some rather pretty pillow dresses using a pattern for Penny. It has taken a few attempts to get the seams right as I hate them left messy. I've mastered French Seams to keep the inside looking lovely and neat. I have also made aprons with pockets and a fabric box for James. Today make was a pair of shorts again for Penny. I'm quite pleased with them and Penny is a very grateful recipient who tells everyone she meets who has made her pretty clothes. She also helps me wind the bobbin up and does her own sewing by putting pins into fabric.

Nothing to give.

I have nothing to hold
No kisses to give
No cuddles to warm you
I can't dry your tears
I can't make you better
For a short time you were our world
Our future
Our family
Our joy
You were loved for the moment you were there
You will be loved always.

8 months

My little baby is getting more mobile by the day. In the last few weeks she has gone from a wobbly sitting position surrounded by cushions for protection to humping her bottom in a weird shuffle while sitting to get about to realising if she is sitting up and leans forward on to her tummy she can reach things. While she on her tummy she can spin herself round like a parashooter. I think it will only be days before she figures out that if she lifts her tummy up she will be able to crawl. I wonder if she will go backwards like her brother did.
Other news, Penny is back to her normal self, I think the chicken pox wore her out, hence the major tantrums. Luckily she is back to her fun loving self. Today she was mainly wearing her Skye from Paw Patrol costume. She acts like a dog and demands pats, flying and pup treats. She is a funny little thing.

Picnics and The National trust.

James' class invited us to join them on a picnic at Belton House. Despite the horrid rain yesterday they still decided to go ahead with it. This lead me to the dilemma, at nearly £14 entrance fee per person do I pay £30 for a few hours or join the National Trust for the year. Eventually bit the bullet and joined paying £9 per month, we just have to make sure we make the most of it.
So the day was great, it was nice to see James playing with his friends. It was also a good chance for Penny join in as she will be starting the preschool in September. Belton play area has been given a make over since we were there last. The play area is fantastic and huge. There are now toliets and baby changing near it and more importantly a coffee shop. There is also an indoor play area which is ideal when it is wet. I'm looking forward to a Summer of picnics and playing.

Camping in the rain.

Last weekend we had bit of a do at Mums. Katie, lianne, Vic and family all for a BBQ. It was bit of a washout but we stuck it out. The kids were suited and booted up and put outside. The thrill of riding bikes, trikes and tractor down the hill and hopefully stopping kept them entertained most of the weekend. Plus hidden dens, climbing mud banks, toasting marshmallows and walks in the rain splashing in puddle makes an excellent time. For the adults wine, fire, food and good company. There was the added excitement and celebration of not 1, not 2 but 3 engagements. Any reason for champagne.

Teddy bears picnic

Due to havinget the chicken pox Penny and Izzy have missed out on Charles picnic birthday party. After waving Marley and James off and drying Pennys tears we did you next best and had a teddy bears picnic. I've also just dashed out to get an ice cream for us from the ice cream man. Delicious.

UNCLEAN UNCLEAN

The dreaded chicken pox has entered the Metcalf house hold. It started with James who got it from school. Thankfully it only seemed to wear him out rather than make him ill. So lots of cuddles and attention. We though Penny and Izzy has escaped it but 2 days ago we found a spot on Iz and yesterday on Penny. Izzy has it terribly, she is absolutely covered head to toe of red raw spots and blisters. I rang the doctors because it is so bad and they have given her some cream. She is so unhappy and sad at the moment, I feel so sorry for her. Penny is also feeling it, she is worn out but instead of sleeping she doesn't know what to do and melts down into a crying puddle. So lots of cuddles for her as well. Shame it has happened over half term, the only consolation is the weather has been rubbish so we haven't missed our days out. If anyone has any advice how to sooth Izzys spot I would be grateful. Thanks.

Answers at last.

Since Penny was a baby she has been blighted by health problems. Small niggling symptoms which come and go. I've been to and from the doctors a number of times for different reason with her, each time feeling like I was wasting the doctor time and they would think I was crazy over barring mother. The problem with our doctors is each time I go I see a different one, with a different problem and a few time I was dismissed with a wave of a hand. However, the last time I went it was because of a night hacking cough which Penny can't seem to get rid off. I happened to mention that she had skin scratches which wouldn't heal because of this the doctor realised the she has eczema and asthma because they go together. I also mentioned the fact that the health visitor thought she might be lactose intolerance as she couldn't tolerance formula when she was tiny. Apparently lactose intolerance is also linked to eczema and asthma. Result. So she not has potions, lotions and inhalers galore and fingers crossed they seem to be working. She cough has stopped therefore she is sleeping better and therefore much happier during the day therefore a happier and less tired mummy. Only downside is we are on a lactose free diet but that is not a problem.

Izzy

My gorgeous baby is now nearly 7 months old. She is such a happy, calm little thing, which is amazing as she has to put up with a lot. You would have thought the novelty would have worn off but no the other 2 are still obsessed with her and won't leave her alone. She has just learn to roll over and I don't think it will be long before she will be wiggling around and exploring.
She loves her food and we are doing the baby lead weaning where we give her the same as we are eating and she feeds herself, sometimes it goes in the right place, often enough it is even where else.
I'm blessed to have such a happy, chilled out baby, a lively, bubbly, brightens your day 3 year old and a bright, clever, thoughtful, relaxed and happy 5 year old.

At last a bit of Sunshine.

It is amazing how a little bit of sun brightens the whole family. I have enjoyed the last few days in the sun. Yesterday I spent the morning at the allotment while Penny was at nursery and Izzy was asleep. Managed to get quite a bit done. I'm feeling quite please with myself as so far, apart from a bit of digging, I've done it all by myself. James has decided he would, like a garden down there, so we pooped down after tea and found him a section and planted some lettuces.
Day Penny, Izzy and I when to Little Acorns followed by lunch at the cafe. Penvy got her haircut, then while we waited for Daddy we watched the ducklings. We also saw a ladybird. Then we all walked to meet James. James planted some seeds in his garden, then we had tea outside followed by John getting the swingball out. Lovely evening I'm now going to end the day with a special coffee followed by a glass of wine in the garden. I'm feeling rather happy and relaxed at the moment. All is good with the world.

Bank holiday

Yesterday we were invited to a BBC at Hollys. What with the sleet, snow, hail of the last few days we wondered if we were going to be inside. However, the sun shone and everyone enjoyed themselves and behaved.
Yesterday morning was also the first time I had left Izzy for 3hours. Normally she is attached to me because I'm  still feeding her and she refused to drink from a bottle. All went well and I enjoyed a sewing machine course. Hopefully I will be soon whizzing up some lovely little dresses for Penny. I one in the picture is a pillow dress.

"I'm a big girl."

On Wednesday my little girl turns 3. Very exciting as since James birthday she knows birthdays mean a special day and cake. As she doesn't have friends as yet, we are doing a few different things.
Today Nanny and Grandad George visited and we had cake. Later Cat Grandma, Marley and Col Col came to play so we had more cake. Tomorrow we are heading to Wheelgate for a fun day out. On Wednesday their will be presents and more cake and Grandma and Grandad Terry are coming for tea.

Easter hols.

Well, as normal the holidays have flown by. Tomorrow James will be back at school and Penny is heading off to nursery for the morning. The house will seem very quiet all of a sudden.
Despite the chaos of Dad accident which upended our Easter plans, we have had a good time and fitted a lot in. The egg hunt at Frampton marsh, day out in Skegness and tractor driving and actifact finding at Dads being some of the highlight. At home we have have been map making, building, plaster Paris making, partying, baking, singing, putting on plays, model making, planting seeds, digging and tent making. We have completely forgot to do any reading for school, but never mind.
I'm going to miss having a full house of noise but looking forward to next weekend away and more adventures.

Tourist day

Today we ventured out to not so sunny Skeggy. Despite the weather we had a lovely time going round the amusements and on the rides. Penny loved the wheel ride, giggling away while she was going round. James liked the 2p machines collecting prizes and tickets. John and just liked being out as a family. Looking forward to sunny weather went we can get on the beach and make sandcastles.

Crocodile

Penny came screaming and running through, announcing we have a crocodile in the kitchen.
Me "It's a stick."
Penny "No, crocodile"
Me "No, it's a stick."
Penny "No scary crocodile."
Me "No, it's a stick, look." (Going to touch it)
Penny "NO NOT NOT,  it's asleep shhhh."

We now have a sleeping pet crocodile/stick we can't move or touch into the middle of our kitchen.

Easter Dramas

I love the holidays. I love having James back at home. So far we have been to the alloment twice. We have now planned potatoes and spring onions. Unfortunately, Dad has taken a tumble off a ladder in the shed while putting up a camera and has broken his shoulder. It should take 6 weeks to heal but he needs to rest it. Hopefully, he will have the sense to ask for help when  he need it and not struggle along like he normally does. I told him to wait till Friday and we would help him with the camera.

Allotment

Last April we were lucky enough to get a plot on the allotment site at the end of our road. It is a quarter size plot and is just the right size for a fair weather gardener like me.
Last year it was a bit hit and miss. We have great success with butternut,  courgettes, peas, strawberries, onions and beetroot. The broad beans, runners, spinach, lettuce and brassicas were poor.
This year I'm hoping to be a bit more organised. So far digging has commenced, shallots and garlic is in and I have grand plans for the rest of the plot. I have even made a diagram. I just need to get the motivation. As much as I like the kids down helping me and enjoy showing them how to plant, sometimes I just need to get on.

Izzie.

Welcome the world

We are delighted to announce the birth of our third (and last) child. A beautiful daughter named Isobel (Izzie) May. Born on the 18th Oct 2015 at 1.30am, weighting a whopping 9.14lb. James, Penny and ourselves are absolutely besotted by her and she is happy, healthy and calm.

Despite being late as she was due on the 13th. when labour started she seemed to be in a great hurry. This is the story of her arrival.
After a month of being on edge because the midwife told us that she was ready and could be due at any time. I decided on the 17th that as a family we needed to get out of the house. The kids were grumpy and I was fed up of being fat. So we venture to the local soft play area to let off some stream. All day I was feeling odd and was having twinges, but this was nothing new as I had been having twinges for the last 6 weeks. However, these felt slightly different. I didn't tell John as he had been putting up with my false alarms for weeks. That evening I decided I would watch Bridget Jones diary. Typically (same happened with Penny) the night I didn't have an early night and sleep things started to happeen. The film finished at midnight, I went to the loo before bed and ping my waters broke. Told John and I rang the hospital, who told me I have better come in to be checked over.

12.10am Rang Dad to ask him to come and pick me up and drive us to the hospital. Told him not to rush as there was no hurry.

12.15am Rang Mum to come and babysit and told her not to rush and there was no hurry.

12.20am I text Katie as she moans she wasn't in the loop to tell her I was in labour.

12.21am Pain starts and I can't move from the bathroom.

12.22am In agony, can't move and contractions are really close together. Still on the toilet.

Things start to get hazy from here on. At some point John calls an ambulance. The person on the end tell him to move me from the toilet get on my back on the floor. Very slowly and by crawling a manage to get to our living room and on the rug.

1ish Dad arrives followed closely by mum. Dad hides in the kitchen. Mums holds my hand as John is still on the phone and having to keep checking if he can see the baby coming.

1.15am. Ambulance people arrive. Yay. There is no drugs (boo) only gas and air.

Anyway, she was born at 1.30 am on the 18th Oct. We had to go to the hospital o be checked over but was back home by 3pm that afternoon. Where we were promptly decended on by masses of family. I went to bed and left them too it.

Proud Parents.

On Friday we had a parents evening for James to see how he was settling in. Both me and John left the school with huge smiles on our faces. We could not be prouder of James how he is flourishing at school. To begin with he was a bit clingy when we would leave him, but within minutes he would be fine and happily playing. For the last week we have been leaving him in the playground so he has to go into the classroom himself. With a little help with a sticker chart at home this has been fuss free and yesterday John barely got a kiss before he was running off.
His teacher is also very pleased. She says she can tell we do a lot with him as his conversation and explanations are excellent. He is always interested in learning and will stop what he is playing to go and do group work. He participates in group work and has started to put his hand up and join in class discussions.
Last week he took in some shells we had picked up at the seaside and he was able to stand at the front of the class and show and describe them. The teacher even changes her afternoon planning so the whole class looked, draw and played with the shells as the children were all interested in them.
He has even volunteered to say a line at the harvest festival, which we were really surprised at as he can be a little timid to begin with until he has found his bearings. Overall we are so chuffed at how he is getting on.
Penny is also making progress at nursery, she is still a little upset at being left. However, when we pick her up she is all smiles and has had a good morning singing, playing in the sand or on the bikes.

Good to go.

Had my 36 weeks midwife appointment on Friday. Not sure if is good new or bad, but according to her baby had dropped. She also stated that as it is my 3rd when they drop labour isn't far away. Hoping that she hangs on a bit until 37 weeks. We are still no ready the house is a state and the nursery needs a good sort out. Baby also doesn't have a name or clothes yet.
Since being told this news every little twinge is being analysed, is this labour?

Counting down the days.

So, I'm now 35 weeks and 3 days or 32 days to go until we get to meet the newest member of our family. Not sure if I've mentioned it but we are having a little girl. It is the first time we have chosen to find out the sex. James is pleased. He commented that because it is a girl he can play with her if it was a boy Penny would have to play with it.
The pregnancy is going well and did seem really fast until now. With 5 weeks to go I'm fat, aching in all places and lazy. Still is isn't as bad as I was with Penny so I am grateful for small things.

Penny's first day at nursery.

Another first in our family this morning. Penny had her first day at nursery. As we both wanted to see her off we dropped James off at school. He went in a lot better this morning, still clingy but giggling with it rather than lots of tears. As normal there was a bottleneck of parents trying to sort their children out, tackling bags, book bags, indoor shoes and coats, myself included. As a result we were 15mins late to nursery,  whoops, nog the ideal start. Anyway, after a quick kiss and cuddle she toddled in with out looking back.
With a child free morning I decided to treat myself to a book and a cream tea in the village. Knickers to the housework.
On pick Pen up, she had had a few teary moments when she had realised that we weren't there. But she said she enjoyed it and played with trains. I think she will be ok when she gets use to it.

First day.

James has now had 2 days at big school. Each morning he has been fine getting ready and doing his new routine.  He is happy until it comes to leaving him. At the moment parents can go in the classroom and help them put their coats and bags away and put their indoor shoes on. Quick kiss goodbye and the tears start. The TAs have to peels him away from us so we can leave. Hopefully, we can start leaving him at the door soon and this might subside. He is absolutely fine minutes later. Penny starts nursery on Monday but I think she will be fine. 

Starting Big School

It is 9.30 in the evening, I'm on my own and sobbing. The reason? My beautiful little boy is starting big school on Thursday. Even though he can drive me to distraction I'm going to miss to insane, random conversations, the constant running commentary which I can barely keep up with, his liveliness and eagerness and energy.
I worry he will find it all too much, the days too long and tiring. That his imagination will be squashed with in confines of school work and getting it right.
I know that I will not be the only one who will miss him. His little mini me follower will feel the same way. I only hope his teacher will grow to love him and his quarks as much as me.

Relief

Last Tuesday was my 12 week scan day. Dad babysat the children while John and I went to our appointment. The relief when I saw a moving little baby on scan was astonishing,  I didn't realised how wind up and worried I was.
Today we told James about the baby. John asked him to guess what was in Mummies tummy. "A baby" he whispered, then bit smiles. Then asked for 2 babies. He said hello to it and confirmed he could hear a very tiny heartbeat. We shown him the scan photos and he chose one to keep. We also talked about what a baby might need and he said he would save his clothes that are too small. At first he wanted a brother, then sister, then back to having 2 babies. At least he is happy about it.