07/06/201328/01/2014 by jo

A Tickety Toc Website Launches

We were lucky to get a sneak preview of a newly launched Tickety Toc website – based on the popular Nick Jr tv show which H enjoys watching.

I’ve found that when we do things online we tend to do them on the iPad rather than the laptop, however, I do know that from September H is going to be learning on a computer so needs those skills – but here we are on a laptop… so not exactly what she’ll be taught and I’m pleased to say she found scrolling around the Tickety Toc website really straightforward – I could leave her to get on with it, without needing to help which is good for her computer confidence and means I get a coffee!

The site is set up so that wherever you are in the world it will recognise the time – and as we’re trying to get the concept of time to H it all helps with learning.

You have several video options to choose from, watching random video clips from the show, as well as some games. We’ve started on the games (there’s one where you have to find objects around the house within a certain time) and are going to try those on the iPad as the site is built in HTML5 and CSS3 (rather than flash-based), so compatible across mobile devices.

The Tickety Toc website has a built-in feature which you can set which allows your child to play for a set time before Tommy and Tallulah pop up – so after ten minutes up they popped, and H promptly moved away from the computer as she knew her time was up! It’s done really nicely so your child doesn’t feel like something is being taken away from them.

Tickety Toc bye

As a parent, what I like is the lack of adverts – it’s just Tickety Toc, and if your child is a fan of the show then they’ll like the site. One minor criticism, as H can’t yet read (but does recognise some letters and words) it would be handy to have a voice tell you which option you’re choosing – but as I was sat with her I was able to tell her.

As far as computer skills go, it was good to get H using the touchpad on the laptop, which she picked up quickly (one finger to move the cursor, two to scroll down) – I’ll post a follow-up once we’ve had a try on the iPad.

02/06/2013 by jo

I Bought an Ice Cream Maker

Lidl are currently selling one for £19.99 and after seeing the recipes from ScottishMum I rushed out and bought one. I’ve not had time to try it out yet but Shaun did, making the easiest recipe in the book, banana ice cream and it’s delicious.

Actually, one thing I’ve found already with the ice cream maker, you need to think well ahead if you want some – the bowl to make it has to be chilled for 24 hours, and the mixture itself needs to be prepped four hours before you plan to eat it. Shaun said it was quite runny when it was finished (but was fine after some extra freezer time) so if you include that then I’d give it some extra time to be on the safe side again.

So over the coming weeks we’re going to try some ice cream recipes – which means we’re now in control of what goes into H’s ice cream and we have plenty of fresh fruit at home most of the time. I know we’ll definitely try out the strawberry recipe!

The ice cream makers are in store now – don’t leave it too long as it’s a good price.

30/05/201328/01/2014 by jo

Alice’s Bear Shop – Lyme Regis

Alice's Bear Shop

Every now and then we kind of stumble across shops that we’re immediately drawn to – and Alice’s Bear Shop is one. Last year when we stayed at Devon Cliffs we did a day trip into Dorset, and found the shop while wandering around.

Now you’re probably thinking a teddy bear shop doesn’t sound very grand, but if I was to tell you that in the back of the shop there’s a Teddy Bear Hospital – where you can take your old bears to be repaired, you’re getting the picture.

There’s SO much more though. Rikey Austin started Alice’s Bear Shop a long time ago, and has written and illustrated several books about bears which over the last year have become some of H’s favourites. In fact, on stepping into the store you can find all sorts – with a teddy reference in there somewhere. I have now touched a teddy which sells for £50!

Rikey herself has a story to tell – which has recently finished being filmed in the form of a documentary – she’s hoping her story will inspire others to give it a go – and she is a really inspirational lady. We chatted about bears, and how she doesn’t want to make lots of money – that all she wants is her bears to be loved (as teddies should be!) – it isn’t about spending lots of money buying the latest teddy, it’s about finding a teddy you love and treasuring it forever.

I like that way of thinking – the only way I could understand it was by putting it to my experiences with my job I have now – I was buying the records in my teenage years and here I am working for the same companies – I’ll never be rich, but I’m working amongst something I know I love. If you’re doing that, you’ll get what Rikey is doing too.

This Sunday we picked up two more bear books, as well as a t-shirt and print – the print is set to be framed and put on H’s wall (with the big reorganisation of her room), and I love how she knows the names of all the bears (and knows enough letters to work out which bear is which when she isn’t sure). The Tilly book is set to be released in hardback quite soon; towards the end of the year; and Rikey is going to be doing a signing in London – we’ll have more news when it happens.

What is it that attracted us to Alice’s Bear Shop? Seeing the hospital reminded me of my childhood – these days toys don’t get repaired, they’re disposed of and a new one bought – and as we try to move into a better ecological way of life this kind of thing is important – you don’t stop loving a toy when it gets worn out – but how many Teddy Bear Hospitals are there these days?

The books too – they’re all lovely stories all based around Alice whose mother mends bears. Alice has a special power in that she can talk to the various bears and often rescues them or finds out what they’re trying to do. The stories are charming and once upon a time each bear in the story had their own toy equivalent – those days are over though.

There’s more than that too – Rikey has illustrated some Brainbox Memory Cards in the last year – we bought the teddy set for H for her birthday (which arrived just in time!) and there’s a new set featuring fairies which are available now. I’m holding out for Rikey’s ‘bad fairies’ collection personally!!

If you’re visiting Lyme Regis, you can find Alice’s Bear Shop at 55 Broad Street, Lyme Regis, Dorset DT7 3QF. We went on a Sunday when they were open until 5pm, but you can phone to check at 01297 444589. There’s parking nearby (which was full when we went) and a larger car park at the top of the hill which makes it a ten minute walk, tops.

Please pop by and visit – if you’re someone who has ever loved a teddy you’ll get this shop – and in fact if you still have your teddy and it needs a repair, why not get it checked into hospital? It might take a few days, but you can pick up or have it posted back to you once it’s mended. We love it!

24/05/201331/03/2018 by jo

A Lollibop Lineup Update

Some of the lineup has been announced for this Summer’s Lollibop festival – oh, and it’s less than three months away now in case you didn’t realise… we’re FINALLY going this year and are very excited about it!

The ever-popular Mr. Men will be hosting a fun maypole activity area and favourite characters, such as Mr. Bump, Mr. Tickle and Little Miss Sunshine will be meeting and greeting fans at the Mr. Men and Little Miss reading hubs.

Shaun the Sheep will be personally on hand at the Championsheeps with sheepy shenanigans, including Shirley’s Pie-athalon, the Naughty Pig’s Sack Race and Get Fit with the Flock. Kids and parents are ‘wool-come’ to get involved!

Other big names confirmed so far, include:

– LolliBop favourites Dick and Dom return with their special mix of madcap games, songs, jokes and a foam pie or two… (makes mental note to teach H about shouting “BOGIES” loudly, hoping they still do that and knowing I may scar her for life if they don’t any more…)

– Peppa Pig will be at the festival all weekend, meeting and greeting all her little fans (I know someone who is going to LOVE that!)

– Sid Sloane and Andy Day will be hosting their very own Big Birthday Bash and everyone is invited! Expect lots of energetic songs and silliness and plenty of audience participation

– Watch and learn how to ‘Copy Poppy’ with Poppy Cat on the Lolli Live stage

– Straight from Nickelodeon to the Lolli Live Stage, The Go! Go! Go! Show are bringing brand new pop songs, catchy, easy-to-learn dance moves and loads of laughs (H likes them! Especially as one wears glasses)

– Sing and dance along with the adorable Cloudbabies mini show

– Older LolliBoppers will love The Diary of a Wimpy Kid activity, which include exclusive clips of the author Jeff Kinney talking about the books and a master class showing how he draws the characters. There’s also a Wimp Wars quiz

– Experience the life-size Transformer Optimus Prime Truck, along with the Transformers Station; showcasing the new Beast Hunters toys, viewings of the cartoon series Transformers Prime and free green screen pictures

– Witness the amazing wildlife showcase with National Geographic Kids Animal Man

– Laugh along with hilarious antics from the amazing 8ft Titan the Robot

Returning LolliBoppers will also see old favourites mixed with new attractions for 2013, including:

LolliBop Live – Popular CBeebies presenter Alex Winters is comparing the live stage which plays host to some of the biggest names in kids entertainment, with live music and performances from stars of stage and screen.

Lollipalladiam – is a live theatre tent showcasing performances from pioneering and internationally renowned companies and artists. This year it features Spooked, the critically acclaimed Broken Rose Performing Arts first show for children – a hilarious and spectacular blend of dance, theatre and spoken word featuring skeletons Molly, Jinny and Charlie.

Science Zone – Make a rocket, hold a dry ice cube, or get messy with gooey slime in the LolliBop lab – brimming with exploding experiments for pint sized guests to try! London’s Science Museum will also be attending with live demonstrations and interactive activities.

Run wild and have fun in the LolliSports area. With activities including retro favourites like swingball, hula-hoop and frisbee to football tournaments and sports day style races.

3ft and under is also making a comeback but this time is it within the brand new Itsy Bitsy Zone. Activities for babies and toddlers will include soft play, baby massage, storytelling, mini discos and much more

The Lolli Promenade – Situated on the River Lea! We’re very lucky to have a real river running through our new home, so why not relax and enjoy an ice lolly at the Lolli Promenade which also features beach hut crafts and bandstands.

Discovery Zone – will host a number of educational, interactive and hands on activities where kids can learn a new skill like beatboxing in one of the many workshops.

Lolli Stops – Enjoy crafts from puppet making, and customised fashion workshops, to balloon modelling, and graffiti painting, there is a something to make and do around every corner.

The Meadows – A perfect spot to chill out, enjoy your lunch and watch our special street performers.

There is also a wide selection of food and drink stalls at LolliBop. Extensive covered buggy parks, baby changing and breast-feeding areas are also available.

For more tickets and more information head to http://www.lollibopfestival.co.uk

21/05/201328/01/2014 by jo

Ten Special National Trust Days Out For Dads

It’s the one day of the year when dads across Britain get to call the shots. This Father’s Day, it’s time to give dad a special day out he will really love, be that walking in the great outdoors, delving into the pages of history or re-living his childhood on a camping trip in the wild.

For green-fingered dads, there are over 200 captivating gardens just waiting to be explored; for adventure-lovers there’s geocaching and wildlife trails to get the adrenalin pumping; and for dads who like to unearth the past, National Trust houses have centuries of history and intrigue bubbling at the surface.

Create special memories this Fathers’ Day on a top family day out with the National Trust:

Bateman’s, East Sussex – Rudyard Kipling and his Rolls-Royce
Home of the much-loved Rudyard Kipling, Bateman’s is kept much as Kipling left it – with his pen and inkwell awaiting new stories. Even his 1928 Rolls-Royce Phantom 1 is outside waiting – a firm favourite with dads. Kipling’s voice can be heard with some of his poems set to music playing on a phonograph. See the original illustrations of The Jungle Book and soak up the atmosphere in Kipling’s book-lined study. His strong association with the East is also very present in the house, with beautiful oriental rugs and artefacts scattered about. The children can play with toys one of the children’s bedroom.
Outside, take a stroll around the estate and try to spot some of the inspiration for Puck of Pook’s Hill, or take a virtual tour of the watermill. Don’t miss the Kipling family initials, carved into the porch one rainy afternoon.
Father’s Day tea, 16 June, 2.30pm-4.30pm
If you imagine an afternoon tea at Bateman’s is just dainty cakes and pastries then you and your dad are in for a surprise. Instead there is a hot mini Yorkshire pudding with gravy, a posh fish finger roll, home made mini pasty, served with a rustic sandwich and the ever popular Bateman’s classic cream tea washed down with a good strong cup of tea.
£12.50. Booking is essential, please call 01435 882302

Brownsea Island, Dorset – red squirrels, smugglers’ tales and wild camping
Take dad on the ferry across to this adventure island in Poole Harbour, famous for being an unspoilt, natural haven with a colourful history. Brownsea was the perfect haunt for smugglers, who used to hide their booty of silks and spices in the castle here. From towering trees and shell shores, to the smugglers’ tales and scenes right out of Enid Blyton’s Famous Five novels (the 1970s tv series was filmed here too), the whole family will feel like they are on quest of discovery. The island is one of the last places to see red squirrels as well as many different kinds of seabirds. At the visitor centre, hear how the island was used as a decoy during the Second World War to protect the nearby towns of Poole and Bournemouth from bombing. There are lots of walks and the island is car free so every inch of it can be explored.
Family camping: An extra-special treat for Father’s Day weekend is the rare opportunity for families to spend an adventurous night on Brownsea Island, with its thriving wildlife and rich history. Master the art of camping and enjoy outdoor activities and, in the evening, there will be a tasty BBQ and sing song around the campfire. For prices and to book, please call 01202 492161.
Or if you don’t fancy a night under canvas there’s always Agents House, a waterside terraced holiday cottage that lies just three metres from the sea with its own private garden. Sleeps six.

Chirk Castle, Wrexham – dungeons, archery and gruesome tales
Completed in 1310, Chirk is the last Welsh castle from the reign of Edward I that’s still lived in today. This Welsh medieval fortress, complete with dungeons and murder holes, has all the ingredients for a great Father’ Day. Meet Will the Archer, the castle’s medieval bowman, and be trained to help guard the fortress. Or try on armour and take part in pike drill – but be careful not to be put in the stocks. Don’t miss the medieval toilets or a visit to the family activity room with games and costumes.
Take a tour through the Myddelton family home and be sure to visit the east wing, where you can relax in the comfy armchairs beside the fire, flick through family photo albums, sign the guest book and hunt for famous signatures, have a game of chess at the dining room table and play with the toy theatre. Outside, enjoy beautiful views over the Cheshire and Salop plains, visit the bird hide and try out bird calls, go den building and bug hunting, explore the estate by bike and hunt for geocaches.
Tudor life, 15-16 June 11am-4pm
Discover everyday life from 400 years ago: try on Tudor fashions, smell food cooking in the servants’ hall and learn more about the gruesome cures for common diseases. Normal admission charges apply. Booking not required. For more information please call 01691 777701.
Make a weekend of it: Stay a few hundred metres from the Castle in Chirk Home Farm Cottage, a traditional stone cottage that sleeps four or in a 1930’s villa at the top of Offa’s Dyke, with views that are second to none (sleeps five).

Gibside, Tyne & Wear – wildlife discovery and family cycling
With red kites whirling over the treetops, the conservation scheme at Gibside feels a million miles away from the hustle and bustle of the Tyne quayside. The cycling route through the landscaped ‘forest’ garden, wildlife hide and stables discovery room is dotted with great picnic spots and spectacular vistas where cyclists can refuel before freewheeling the eight miles back down the Derwent walk to Newcastle. An exhilarating and refreshing day for all the family on Father’s Day.
Music in the chapel, 16 June, 2pm-3pm
Enjoy the fantastic acoustics of Gibside chapel with live music from local performers and choirs inspired by a seasonal theme.
Normal admission charges apply.
Booking not required. For more information please call 01207 541820

Lyme Park, Cheshire – a giant playscape, bulbs and local beer
On the edge of the Peak District, nestling within sweeping moorland, Lyme Park is a beautiful estate. Its wild remoteness and powerful beauty contrast with one of the most famous country house images in England – the backdrop to where Darcy meets Elizabeth in the BBC’s production of Pride and Prejudice. Discover a colourful family history, from rescuing the Black Prince and sailing into exile with the Duke of Windsor to the writing of the hit series Upstairs Downstairs. New for 2013 is the ‘End of a Golden Era’ project, telling the story of the Edwardians who lived and worked at Lyme.
After exploring the beautifully furnished rooms and impressive tapestries, escape to the park and feel miles away from anywhere. Take a family walk across the magnificent moorland, fly a kite or wonder at The Cage – a remarkable, medieval hunting lodge set high up on the moor. Head over to Crow Wood playscape for a big adventure – a land of giant treehouses and slides, timber walkways and tree trunks to climb.
Make your Father’s Day card, 15 June, 1pm-3pm
Make dad an extra-special card for Father’s Day.
Normal admission charges apply.
Booking is not required. For more information please call 01663 762023.
Beer and bulbs, 15-16 June, 11am-4pm
Especially for Father’s Day weekend, Dad can also enjoy selecting from thousands of bulbs from Lyme’s gardens that will be on sale. Afterwards, take him to tastings of locally brewed beer – another perfect treat.
Vehicle charges apply. Booking not required. For more information please call 01663 762023.

Mount Stewart House, Garden and Temple of the Winds, County Down -cartoons of politicians and duck-billed platypuses
Mount Stewart is one of the most unique and unusual gardens in the National Trust’s ownership, and is laid out in a series of different garden ‘rooms’. There is something new around every corner and the house tells stories of the politicians who visited the Londonderry family. Lady Londonderry made all the visiting politicians members of her elite ‘arc club’, and the animal pictures of them can still be seen in the tea room – Winston Churchill was ‘Winnie the warlock’.
Enjoy breathtaking views over Strangford Lough and discover dinosaurs in the garden and a horse with a monkey on its back. Find ‘Mairi Mairi quite contrary’ sitting in the middle of a pond with her cockle shells, creep down the underground tunnel by the Temple of the Winds and find crocodiles and duck-billed platypuses jostling on the dodo terrace.
Father’s Day boat trip, 16 June, 1pm-3pm & 3pm – 5pm
A treat for all of the family on Father’s Day on a scenic voyage on Strangford Lough to view the seals, seabirds and other wildlife, which can be found making this internationally-important wildlife reserve their home.
Adult £13, child £6.
Booking is essential, please call 028 4278 8387.

Oxburgh Hall, Norfolk – boys and their toys
Dads will love this 15th-century, moated manor house – with its priest’s hole, rooms where Henry VII and Elizabeth stayed during their visit and a striking Tudor gatehouse. From the roof there’s a fantastic view over the surrounding countryside, where you can walk for miles on one of the many trails. Spot the wildlife woodcarvings on the woodland trails and keep the kids entertained with some of the ’50 things to do before you’re 11 ¾’ activities, including hunting for bugs.
Boys and their toys, 15-16 June, 11am – 5pm
Join Oxburgh for Father’s Day weekend for this popular event, with displays by various model clubs. Bittern Amateur Radio Club will be broadcasting from Oxburgh Hall.
Normal admission charges apply. Booking is not required for this event.
For more information, please call 01366 328 243.

Sudbury Hall and the National Trust Museum of Childhood, Derbyshire – sports day and childhood memories
There’s something for everyone at Sudbury, either in the 17th-century hall or the Museum of Childhood, which is a delight for all ages, especially dads on Father’s weekend. The hall interiors are exquisite, with fine, decorative plasterwork, wood carvings and beautifully painted murals. In the unique museum, dads can get lost in themed galleries covering everything from outdoor adventure to stories and imagination, complete with interactive displays and even bedrooms on the ceiling. Children can dress up in the story gallery, pretend to be pupils in the Victorian schoolroom, or chimney sweeps (the adventurous can even climb up inside the chimney).
Sudbury sports day, 16 June, 11am-4pm
Come and try some of our old fashioned games out in the stable yard. Reminisce, unleash your inner child or try your hand at some of the weird and wonderful games from yesteryear
This is a free outdoor event held in the stable yard.
Booking not required. For more information please call 01283 585337

Tyntesfield, North Somerset – geocaching and going batty
Tyntesfield’s house, chapel, gardens and woodland make for an inspiring day of fresh air and discovery. Ideal for an adventure on Father’s Day, the Victorian estate has an exhilarating geocaching trail, with six boxes located in the woodland. The caches are themed around the wildlife, habitats and history of the area and include key facts about how the Trust is caring for the woodland and its wildlife. Each treasure box also contains an interactive family-friendly activity.
For wildlife lovers, the colony of lesser horseshoe bats that summer-roost in the roofs above the billiard room and servants hall is sure to delight. The colony consists of around 70 bats, many of which hibernate nearby in a tunnel near the wood-yard or occasionally under the chapel and in the cellars of the chaplain’s house. Bat-loving dads can see them via a new bat camera on site.
Father’s Day weekend, 15-16 June 10am-4pm
An array of classic cars are descending on the Tyntesfield estate. Wander around and find your favourite and maybe even get a picture of dad behind the wheel.
Normal garden admission applies.
Booking not required. For more information please call 01275 461 900.
Make a weekend of it: Perfect for large family groups rent Chaplain’s House and Lodge together and you’ll have enough beds for 11. Situated in the heart of the Tyntesfield estate you’ll get the gardens and woodlands all to yourself once the estate has closed to the public.

The Vyne, Hampshire – the inspiration for Lord of the Rings?
Originally built as a great Tudor ‘power house’, The Vyne was visited by King Henry VIII on a few occasions and later became a family home, cherished by the Chute family for more than 350 years. The house is filled with an eclectic mix of fine furniture, portraits, textiles and sculpture.
Perhaps the most interesting object in The Vyne’s possession is a gold Roman ring, probably 4th-century, said to have inspired J.R.R. Tolkien. Discovered in the 18th-century, the ten-sided band has a Latin inscription engraved on it, which reads: ‘O Senicianus, may you live prosperously’, and the image of a fearsome looking head, which has been identified as that of the Goddess of Venus. Several decades after the ring was found, a Roman lead tablet was excavated at a temple in Gloucestershire. It bore an inscription referring to this very ring, and cursing ‘Senicianus’, who had stolen it. It is highly likely that the story of this ring and its curse was introduced to Tolkien, who had been advising on excavated finds at the temple. Many believe this ring to have been the inspiration for his Lord of the Rings trilogy – a perfect Father’s Day mystery for fans of the books and films. The ring and its inscription can now be clearly viewed through a new magnified display unit, where visitors can find out more about its fascinating story

20/05/201328/01/2014 by jo

A Devon Cliffs Haven Break

Devon Cliffs has been our holiday destination two years in a row – so I decided we should do a review. It’s long!

Devon Cliffs is Haven’s Flagship park, and somewhere we’re familiar with. We booked way up front with a deal via a newspaper as we had done the previous year and chose to go back to – we knew there was a lot more to go and see. The break came in at around £120 total, for accommodation, linen and passes for a Monday to Friday break.

An added bonus is that the excellent Rachel and family live up the road in Exeter, so we extended our stay by a couple of days – more of which to follow as we did a LOT!

So, we returned to Devon Cliffs. I phoned in a request with them to stay in a similar area to last year as we found it quiet – when we stayed at Hafan-y-mor in North Wales we were next to the entertainment complex and its horrendous soundproofing (I can’t use earplugs as I have tinnitus so had to make do with the noise and the people leaving afterwards). We were pleased as we ended up being allocated the same ‘little house’ as last year, in Rowan Meadow. You’re about three caravans length-wise from the cliffs and the sea and on a sunny day you’re facing the sun in the mornings which makes the cold start much more bearable.

Three mornings at Devon Cliffs

On getting back to our caravan nothing had changed – other than this year you have to take your own towels (bedding is supplied as an extra, made up on arrival) – that was fine, though I’m now looking for microfibre towels to take should we go again as they dry quicker than regular ones – drying space is a bit lacking! (you get a rack and there is a laundrette in the main area)

This wasn’t a major issue as our caravan was our base for getting around the area, however the weather had other ideas – we knew the Tuesday would be pretty bad with rain, so decided to try out the facilities at Devon Cliffs – so went swimming. We didn’t try anything else as it was outdoors although you can pay up-front to use them. In the pool H wasn’t keen on the big slide though loved the smaller pool play area. It isn’t deep and H wasn’t out of her depth. There are no floatables to borrow so we bought H a float for about £7 at the pool reception. There’s plenty of staff cleaning the floors and keeping them as clean as possible, and as far as the swimming goes we had fun – it was too cold for us to go to the outdoor pools.

Afterwards we had lunch at the Mash & Barrel – the main pub area (think along the lines of Wetherspoons) – where our waiter asked Shaun if he’d like ‘crisps or chips’ with our sandwiches. Shaun opted for chips… and this is where things got a bit confusing. When the food arrived we had crisps AND chips. As I’d asked Shaun to get a portion for us to share we didn’t complain, but it’s worth making sure the person serving you knows exactly what you want. The vegetarian burger there is great and I was happy with it.

Unlike previous times, we only ate at Devon Cliffs twice – once on our first evening there and once on the rainy day. One plus with the food area is a soft play section, though I spotted a piece of string/rope across the lower area which worried me. I mentioned it to a member of staff as I felt it could be dangerous, and nobody had been to check when we left. This could be me being overcautious, and they do recommend your child is supervised at all times. There wasn’t anyone policing the entrance and a lot of older kids were on there which was a bit annoying as they were well over the maximum height.

We did what any parent who wants to keep their child entertained does, and headed upstairs for the disco – the one for toddlers and young kids. H was shy about it the first night (as I stood there singing along to ‘Hands Up’ by Justin Fletcher and ‘Big Red Car’ by The Wiggles, oh indie cred, I’ve let you down horribly), but the second night in her sparkly Moshi Monsters t-shirt and she was ready to dance. She didn’t win any prizes (which were sweets) but had fun. The kids were led from the dancefloor a few times to ‘Follow the leader’ (as in, have your photo taken with one of the characters for £5ish) but we opted out – it was popular and the queues were big. This meant H had the dancefloor to herself for a bit anyway. The staff were all really enthusiastic and had fun – though a character was introduced on the stage and sung songs nobody knew which kind of lost the kids a bit (I thought). They all seemed to have fun, and there was a sweet shop to the side with illuminated toys and sugar for sale – which we managed to avoid.

On our second to last night at Devon Cliffs we went to the beach, building sandcastles and flying our kite. We had the whole beach to ourselves pretty much. Afterwards we headed up to the seafront bar for some food – bear in mind vegetarians, this place is big on fish! There’s decent veggie options and I settled for a large salad which was really filling. H tried her first prawn and enjoyed it, and Shaun found them tasty – so if you like your seafood skip the Mash & Barrel. This is also the bar which features on the ‘Echo Beach’ advert!

There’s one BIG thing which never happened last time we stayed at Devon Cliffs – the Royal Marines shooting range was used daily, next to the campsite. At first I thought there was some outdoor fireworks display, then it hit home. I then had to explain to H why they were firing things and making the noise as best I could… not a big problem, but one I didn’t realise existed before – so if you want to avoid that, request to be away from the cliffs.

So, going back to Devon Cliffs – was it a good idea? I’m happy with our stay – we all had a good sleep thanks to it being quiet – and we got to see more of the area. Would we go back again? Probably not – but only because we’ve probably exhausted the area close by – we’re thinking about Cornwall next year and going a bit further south (so will look at Haven sites as we know what we’re getting). We took minimal food and stocked up in the Spar which came in around £10 which I thought was very reasonable. I know we’re the kind of family who will use the on-site facilities but do leave the site for most of the day to do other things.

Could anything be improved? Possibly – I liked not having to take our own towels last year! The kids entertainment was good, and given H was confident enough to head down the front and dance with the other kids I was happy with that, though found the character entertainment songs quite loud (with my ears I’m sensitive to it) – I’m sure it’s well within limits but thought it’s worth mentioning. Some lower calorie options with meals would have been nice, although I put my blinkers on and just ate what I fancied (and only put on 1lb in the process – phew). We couldn’t find a check-out time for Devon Cliffs so I tweeted Haven for confirmation – it’s 10am, should anyone else find themselves googling it. It doesn’t say anywhere (the Haven Website wouldn’t work on my iPad, weirdly). Someone came to clean our caravan at 9.30, so they’re keen.

What was good? I love that Devon Cliffs has child cutlery in the food areas and make sure your child has something to colour in (hats this year!). I love their kids food menu has choice at the heart of it, so you give your child more of a chance to pick what they want (even if it isn’t necessarily the most healthy…). I really liked how the pool was the right size, and older kids didn’t get in the way or barge the little ones out of the way. I loved we were in a quiet area at night, although it was freezing – we had three duvets on our bed! We would have ordered from Papa John’s again this year as I like the convenience of having it delivered to your caravan, but didn’t have the time. I bought three days of internet for £12 which meant back at the caravan I could look up things for the following day, buy tickets and so on – we didn’t have that as an option last year, so that was a HUGE thumbs up from me as it helped a lot – especially as my phone didn’t work (never has Everything Everywhere been such an inaccurate name for a service…!)

So yes, that’s us and Devon Cliffs 2013. We enjoyed our time there, wish the weather could have been a bit warmer but managed fine – AND H now likes having showers – result!

15/05/201326/01/2014 by jo

My Morphy Richards Soup Maker Six Months On

My most popular post on here is easily my gushing about my soup maker. It was bought last October/November time and has been used a minimum of two times a week since. We love our soup! Especially when it’s so easy.

There’s been a few things that I thought were worth mentioning as a follow-up.

I’ve had times when the blade of the soup maker hasn’t gone down all the way – and at the first whizz about fifteen minutes in, it’ll make the lid of the soup maker open, breaking the cycle. My solution? Before you start the cycle give your veg a quick blend on that setting for about five seconds, while holding the lid firmly – then if anything is likely to block it, it’ll be a bit mashed up. So far every time I’ve done that it hasn’t popped open.

The soup is hot. Very hot – though I’ve found pouring H’s portion when it has finished, then ours at the time we’ll eat means it’s just right. I’ve also come to my portion an hour and a half later and it has still been warm (as long as the lid is kept on!).

One of the stands on the bottom came off – I’m not sure how, and they’re not the easiest to get back in! With one missing it hasn’t made things noisier, though I’m keeping a close eye – it looks like the kind of thing that would go back in with the help of a narrow screwdriver.

I’ve not been very adventurous with recipes recently – we’re tired and it’s always a random concoction of vegetables. I need some inspiration! Having just passed the Cinco de Mayo maybe we should have had a mexican twist to our soup tonight (butternut squash, carrot and broccoli) – so I’m going to have a think – I’m thinking tomato, coriander, chili and some lime… mmm!

So, six months in was it worth the money? Definitely. It is used as much as our breadmaker (a minimum of two times a week) and makes meals after work so much easier as we always cook from fresh. I love the extra time I have with H, and the soup is almost always tasty (I had one disaster when I added an orange).

In summary, it still gets the thumbs up here – though I’ll be working on a gazpacho recipe – which will need to be prepared the night before I guess, to get it properly chilled!

10/05/201328/01/2014 by jo

Monski Mouse – Coming to a Dancefloor Near You – and Soon!

Monski Mouse is the alter-ego of Monica Corduff Gonzalez who does discos for under 5’s around the world. She comes from Australia, and currently lives in the UK. She’s bringing her dance event to the London Wonderground this summer with Monski Mouse’s Baby Disco Dance Hall. We’re interviewing Monica, so we can find out loads more about the events – as well as reviewing it (and quite frankly I may be the most excited of all of us about this).

Two sold out Adelaide Fringe seasons (2012 & 2013), an Edinburgh Fringe and bookings at festivals such as Norfolk and Norwich Festival (Sold Out) and the Freedom Festival, Monski Mouse’s Baby Disco Dance Hall has been getting heads, shoulders, knees and toes bopping along since its launch in February 2012.

Monski Mouse has made a career from DJ-ing quirky retro tracks, while dressed as a glamour-girl-mouse, for the last ten years, at arts festivals and clubs including Adelaide Cabaret Festival, Melbourne International Comedy Festival and Edinburgh Fringe. Since becoming a Mum in 2010, Monski Mouse expanded her focus to the morning audience, of bubs, toddlers and parents/carers, in a career move that fits in with her current role as a working Mum.

“I count myself really lucky to able to adapt my performance career to make work my daughter can enjoy, and I am totally blown away by how much she absolutely loves the Baby Disco Dance Hall.” says Monski Mouse,”Plus its so much fun to have dance before tea time, what an absolutely wonderful way to spend your day!”

The event features Monski Mouse hosting and DJing, two experienced early childhood performers as ‘dancers’, who work with the audience, and a ‘baby area’ where the non walkers can roll around to the music.

“I feel extremely privileged to be performing this disco, the delight I get to see in young children’s eyes and their parents faces is incredibly special, I am a very, very lucky mouse.” says Monski Mouse.

Designed for children under 5 and their parents and carers, to dance and have fun together, Monski Mouse’s Baby Disco Dance Hall runs every second Sunday from 26 May through to 15 September, tickets are available through londonwonderground.co.uk

“Children were dancing, parents were singing and EVERYONE was smiling” Radelaide Rover

“Monski Mouse is the best DJ in the world” James Campbell – Comedy for Kids
“Creates a unique atmosphere and allows friends, parents, carers, grandparents (you name it) to join together by dancing ” ★★★★ Three Weeks
“This quirky event was clearly a hit.” ★★★ Broadway Baby

Web: monskimouse.com Twitter: @MonskiMouse Facebook: @MonskiMouse

LISTING INFORMATION
Venue: London Wonderground Spiegeltent
Time: 15:00 Running Time: 45 minutes
Dates: 26 May, 9 &23 June, 7 & 21 July, 4 & 18 August, 1 & 15 September 2013
Tickets: £8 – bubs under six months free!
Bookings: londonwonderground.co.uk or call 0844 545 8282

Do you fancy an idea of what Monski Mouse plays? Here you go…

[soundcloud url=”http://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/91526697″ params=”” width=” 100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

10/05/2013 by jo

Ecover – Message In Our Bottle

Ecover have started a campaign, as our drinking water in this country, from plastic bottles is getting out of hand. I know as a family we’re constantly trying to find ways to be more ecologically better (my love letter to Method will appear in the near future), and one huge think I need to look at right now is my use of plastic bottles. I drink a lot of water every day, and tend to fill it up using the water cooler at work – which isn’t a bad usage, but I could be better.

This infographic spells it out much better than I ever could. Ecover are developing a new plastic which is to be fully sustainable and recyclable and minimises the use of raw materials.

Cleaning the seas, one bottle at a time. Visit The-Splash for more information and to read our pledge.As for me? I need to find myself a nice new bottle for my water. Something that will last, is mine (so it doesn’t go walkabouts when I’m away from work) and means I’ll no longer be buying bottled water. I’m starting from tomorrow – will you?

08/05/201326/03/2018 by jo

A Special K ‘Pinch More Than An Inch’ Special

BritMums have a competition with Special K and this is my entry. We were sent a box to try (H “this is SPECIAL – it belongs to Mummy!”) and to see how much we have changed in the last thirty years, since Special K was first launched.

I remember 1983 well. ‘Can you pinch more than an inch?’ was Special K’s catchphrase and it stuck with me through the years. At school we’d often try to pinch more than an inch, almost nipping and pulling our skin to make sure we could. These days I almost certainly could but that’s part of having had a baby, stretchy skin, you know?

Memories of 1983 have several key things – music, football and television programmes. Back in 1983 Grange Hill was easily my obsession – it was the Roland, Jonah and Zammo years – see here :

These days I get my keys cut at our local key cutting shop… recognise that chap? The one on the left that is. The other is me a couple of years ago…

Zammo Mentor

Okay, let’s try music. From 1981 until 1987-ish (when I got sick of Stock, Aitken and Waterman taking over the charts) I wrote down the Top 40 every week. Here’s the chart from this week in 1983, complete with handy colour code that only a thirteen year old could possibly do. It’s a bloody good chart in 1983 too, I’d say I like at least 50% of the Top 40 which is 50% more than I like of the current one. (click to enlarge, it’s worth it – and Spandau Ballet’s ‘True’ was number one!)

These days I get my Top 200 on a spreadsheet… and it isn’t colour coded.

Musically, the albums I received for Christmas were New Order’s ‘Power, Corruption and Lies’, Aztec Camera’s ‘High Land Hard Rain’ and the Cocteau Twins ‘Head Over Heels’. I still have and love them all, but these days I own them on CD…

Football – I was a Tottenham supporter (still am), and 30 years ago we finished fourth in the league. There’s still two games before we know for sure (we’re playing Chelsea right now and are 1-1) but I’m keeping everything crossed we’ll also finish fourth this year…. Sadly Tottenham haven’t had an opportunity to make a record these last few years, nor any of their players. (the world will now breathe a collective sigh of relief as Glenn and Chris recorded in 1987)

Okay, school. I’m obviously no longer at school, and here’s our class photo from 1983, what a lovely lot we are!

I do actually have a different hairstyle. This time last year it was the same as 1983 though. I’m sensing a theme here. Special K may have changed, but have I? There’s only one set of people I can ask for their honest opinion – some of the ladies on the picture above that I’m still in touch with.

Lisa: Still passionate about music – no change there! (”,) x
Nicky: When you stayed last year it took me back to being 12… Not changed a bit xx
Lisa : You don’t look that different either!
Lynn : You still look like Jo Indie Pop with your stripey shirts!
Sheena : There are one or two of my school friends who quite honestly barely have changed at all. And you Jo are one of those! You look the same you are listen to the same music (and share it which is lovely) and no one would be surprised at your life! You have not changed!
Debbie : Presumably you still write the Top 40 down each week?
Mel : Bet you havent done a home perm again though?
Lisa : you are lucky miss peter pan. I don’t think you are any different. bar fringe x
Catherine : You haven’t changed a bit! And you’ve turned your passion for music into a career and the writing is still going too.

I can confirm I will never have a home perm in my life ever again. I blame my mum. At LAST! I have changed!!!!

So, Special K, how much have you changed? Gone are the ‘pinch more than an inch’ days, and the new recipe now contains three grains – rice, wheat and barley. Wholegrains are in now too which are a source of fibre and there’s eight vitamins and minerals – and it’s a box of cereal I’m finding myself sharing with H on a morning – and I like the new variety – I just wish I had more for myself!

At least something has changed in here….

specialk30

We received a box of Special K to take part in this challenge.

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