For year I've been asked if I would like to go and see bands but that sort of thing never really took my fancy. However, Vic and Hol asked if I would like to go to Bingley festival as my birthday present and I jumped at the chance, not necessarily because I'm into music, but because it is chance to get away for a few days and have a girly time.
Should be good as there as actually bands on who I have heard of and even know I song or two. The line up included the Manics, Feeder, Wombats, Badly drawn boy and Kaiser Chiefs.
I jusy need to sort out what I need to pack. I don't pack light and need lots of stuff as you never know what the weather is going to be like and I like my comforts.
Monday, August 28, 2017
Sunday, August 27, 2017
Wednesday, August 23, 2017
Big Whoops. Naked Facebook pics.
Got out the shower and Penny wanted me to take a picture of her in her new party dress and shoes on a horse. No problems. She then wanted to show Grandma her dress but as Grandma lives away we decided to post it on line. Isn't the internet great?
However, what I didn't realise until I had downloaded it to facebook and wanted to add a comment, was that there was me fully starkers reflected in the mirror. Delate Delate. I'm hoping I was quick enough.
Here is the photoshopped version.
However, what I didn't realise until I had downloaded it to facebook and wanted to add a comment, was that there was me fully starkers reflected in the mirror. Delate Delate. I'm hoping I was quick enough.
Here is the photoshopped version.
Tuesday, August 22, 2017
Gloworm festival
Ages ago I order tickets for the Gloworm childrens festival at Clumber Park. We loved it. We managed to get day tickets for £40 for the family and once inside most things including fairground rides, workshops and activites were free. We had a slow start getting into the festival, it was a bit disorganised but once in it was great.
We headed off to the outdoors area where James tried out his caving skills. He was wasn't keen on it, but stuck it out. We had a go at football, holding chicks and mice made a den and a bug house. After that and befor lunch we headed for the rides. These were a great hit with my three. They were only little ones but ideal and no queues. Even Izzy had a go. This was followed by lunch while listening to some bands. Afterwards we had a wonder and the kids went on 2 soft play buses, donkeys, and giant play equipment. Then we dashed over to the dizo zone and saw a real T-Rex with his owner. James even got to strike him, though he did roar at him and knock him off his bale. I managed to see a bit of The Chuckle Brothers who were fab and entertaining. Then more rides until home time.
The place didn't seem very big when we first arrived but we barely saw any of it, not that it mattered. There were planty of well tended, clean toliets which was also good.
Needless to say we will be definitely going back next year, maybe with the view to camping ang staying the weekend, as there are bands on in the evening.
We headed off to the outdoors area where James tried out his caving skills. He was wasn't keen on it, but stuck it out. We had a go at football, holding chicks and mice made a den and a bug house. After that and befor lunch we headed for the rides. These were a great hit with my three. They were only little ones but ideal and no queues. Even Izzy had a go. This was followed by lunch while listening to some bands. Afterwards we had a wonder and the kids went on 2 soft play buses, donkeys, and giant play equipment. Then we dashed over to the dizo zone and saw a real T-Rex with his owner. James even got to strike him, though he did roar at him and knock him off his bale. I managed to see a bit of The Chuckle Brothers who were fab and entertaining. Then more rides until home time.
The place didn't seem very big when we first arrived but we barely saw any of it, not that it mattered. There were planty of well tended, clean toliets which was also good.
Needless to say we will be definitely going back next year, maybe with the view to camping ang staying the weekend, as there are bands on in the evening.
Monday, August 21, 2017
Warwick castle (camping part 2).
After a goodnights sleep we set off to Warwick castle. It was great the kids loved it. It is quite pricey so 2 for 1 vouchers are a must and the car park is a trek from the castle and cost £6.
Apart from that we really enjoyed it. There was lots to do and the weather was good for us.
We headed to the Princess story time bit first, which you have to book. It was ok. There was a bit of story with a mystery which the children had to solve to help the Princess get her Prince. Next we headed to the civil war jousting. It was difficult for the children to see as we arrived just as it started and the place was heaving. We all ended up with kids on our shoulders. Again it was really good the actors got the kids excited and yelling for Lancaster or York depending what side you were sitting. It had fighting, sword play and horses and if you listened to the story it was quite informative. Just as that finished the Horrid Histories play started, this I loved. It was two actors telling the history of Warwick Castle. It was funny for both the children and grown up with songs, silliness and slapstick. Loved it. Then we had a look at the birds which Iz liked. We also saw the trebuchet in action, followed by the birds of prey.
Then a tril to the shop for Princess dress, tiaras, swords, bows and arrows and shields. Pocket money spend there was time for them to sword fight for a bit. Then round the castle. I wish I could have spend a little most time in here. I love history but the kids only have a limited patience and why be inside looking at paintings when you could be outside fighting with your new toys. Penny was funny, she was wearing her Princess dress pretending that it was her castle showing me around.
Then while Dad had a break we climbed the towers. Gosh there was some steps. Penny had to strip the Princess dress off as she couldn't climb in it. The views were impressive.
Finally, we did the horrid histories maze which was a good ending to a very tiring but brillent day.
Wednesday, August 16, 2017
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.
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.
Friday, August 04, 2017
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.
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.
Wednesday, August 02, 2017
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.
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.
Saturday, July 29, 2017
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.
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.
Friday, July 28, 2017
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.
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.
Tuesday, July 25, 2017
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.
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.
Monday, July 17, 2017
Sleepy Penny
Wednesday, July 12, 2017
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.
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.
Tuesday, July 11, 2017
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.
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.
Wednesday, July 05, 2017
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.
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.
Friday, June 16, 2017
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,
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,
Wednesday, June 14, 2017
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.
Saturday, June 10, 2017
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.
We organised a party for the afternoon. The excitment got a bit too much for her and 10min before the party she conked out.
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.
Think we might have started a very expensive hobby.
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