Mrs Manic

yes Your Honour.....

2012-01-30T22:01:00.000Z

I was just sooooooooooooo excited today - I was scheduled to start my first ever jury service this morning at Southend Magaistrate Courts!

I had to be there for 9am, so after much organisation, the boys went to school via the walking bus (thanks Heather)! and Mum came and met me at the Courts to take Cassandra off for the day.

There were 15 of us that had been summond to attend, and we were all waiting to be selected, but at 10.30am we were "released" for an hour to go and have a cuppa. A few of us ventured next door to the cafe at at the Civic Centre for a late breakfast.

Back again and hanging around only to be "released" at 12.30 for an early lunch, told to come back at 2pm.

This we all did but at 3.20pm we were all "dismissed" for the day by the Judge and told to come back tomorrow :(

I knew I'd have some waiting, but 6 1/2 hours of just sitting around and not to have even been selected is disappointing. A total waste of a day - there was just soooooooooo much I could of got done. Saying that I did spend a couple of hours studying for my next Psychology OU TMA.

Still, there is always tomorrow...

Scrap attack!

2012-01-22T21:03:00.001Z

I'm actually managing to keep to my New Year's resolution so far this year in that I'm making time to scrapbook.

I spent most of the day at Eastwood Scrappers on Saturday and although I only got 3 layouts completed, I'm very, very pleased with them...

This is one of my all time favourite layout's that I've ever done, as it was all my own - no kit! I also very rarely scrap layouts of just myself, but I'd just had my hair cut and highlighted in this photo and felt the need for it to be scrapped..

After reading up on different ways of taking photos for scrapbooking, instead of taking a picture of Cassie, I just took a photo of her feet showing her first ever shoes...

I love this photo of the boys taken whilst we were away in the Forest of Dean in 2010. It shows that sometimes they do love each other!

Birthday boy....

2012-01-22T20:50:00.000Z

I just can't fathom where the time has gone... Nicholas was 6 last week... how the hell did that happen!?!?!?

I finally gave in and said that Nicholas could have his DS - a year earlier than Alex, but what do you do when the younger one is as good as the older one?!

Nicholas was in stitches over his card...

Love this pic of our two boys...

Nannie of course came over after school with lots of pressies...

And when Lee got home and Uncle Tony & Christine came over after school, a football cake

was in order for the birthday boy!

Saturday morning saw Nana and Grandad bringing over the photo picture they had had done of our little "Gunner" as one of his birthday pressie's along with his BigTrack!

Then, came the much talked about "football party" ...

The Butler family just had to support our "team"

Nicholas got a bit of practice in before everyone turned up...

As did Cassie!

Everyone knows you have to warm up first..

And then pick your end..

With your fellow team mates..

And try to get dressed...

Nicholas had a fabby afternoon

As did all those that came along and helped him celebrate turning a big 6!

Oh, and don't forget all the food and CAKE!!

Love you loads Nicholas. xx

And we're off!

2012-01-15T21:32:00.002Z

Last Monday I signed up my first new Avon team member for 2012!!!

I'm on a mission this year to increase my team and my sales as not only do I want to achieve President's Club status, but more importantly, I want to use my commission to take the kids (that includes Lee) to Lapland to meet Father Christmas this year.

So, I have availability for new team members! If you or anyone you know would like to earn some extra cash - working hours to suit you & around the kids, then please let me know!

I offer a £5 spend in the Avon book with me to anyone who recommends a possible rep, that once signed up, places their first minimum order. I cover most local areas, offer full training, no start up costs and you can get
earning immediately.

Please email me on sharonjbutler@gmail.com.

Just keep scrappin'...

2012-01-15T21:14:00.001Z

Last Saturday I spent a very pleasant time at Jackie's scrapbooking day in Benfleet.

It was kind of a "finish your pages" day for me and I was very pleased with some of the ones I got done...

I wouldn't say they are the best layouts I've ever done or the most complicated, but I was very pleased with the results.

One of my New Year's resolutions is to scrap more in 2012. Not only do I have the ongoing challenge of yearly photos (I'm only a year behind)!, but I have Lee's Safari trip to South Africa and our family holiday to Florida that I want to get done too.... I can feel a weekend's retreat coming on.....!!!

Oooooh Errrr Mrs....

2012-01-06T21:59:00.002Z

Alexander has recently started karate and tonight he got his gi!

He was very happy to pose a few moves for the camera!

Just keep swimming, just keep swimming...

2012-01-06T21:54:00.002Z

SOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO Proud of our boys yesterday!

At swim school Alexander achieved "Kingfisher 1"

and Nicholas achieved "Goldfish 3"

Way to go boys!!!

I can't believe it!!!

2012-01-06T21:45:00.003Z

After pigging out all over Chrimbo and eating whatever I fancied, at weigh in on Tuesday the scales told me I'd only put on 1/2lb!!!

I think they may have been wrong, but I'm still within target weight!!!

2012 is here!!!

2012-01-06T21:43:00.000Z

Every year for the last few, we've made our own tradition and gone out for breakfast/brunch on New Years' day. Normally down to one of the cafe's along the seafront, but this year I wanted to go to Bobby Jo's.

It's a fairly new American themed diner just past the Kursaal run by Bobby and his wife Jo!

The staff there all even dress like it's the 50's - I loved it!

Full breakfast, toast and bacon sandwiches were on order as were milkshakes..

And everyone liked their fabby "knickerbockerglory" milkshakes!

A short wonder along the seafront for some very "fresh" air saw us return home cold, but in good spirits.

Happy New year!

New Year's Eve

2012-01-01T12:54:00.002Z

Since we've had the kids, we've not been out on New Year's Eve as they are just still too young to be out that late.

However, this year a spur of the moment conversation with my good friend Charmaine saw us all literally over the road at her house for a fun night of Sing Star on the play station and playing on the XBox Kinect.

We ALL gave it a go....

Deena was lucky enough to get cuddles from Cassie..

Sophie and Alex sang well

Although I think Char & Lee did the best!

Saying that Lee and Darren's version of "3 times a lady" was a good try..

The girls...

The kids (minus Josh & Jacob)

Alex has always had a "thing" for Jasmine...

Jack & Nicholas trying to white water raft in a dingy!

The wine was going down well at this stage..

Alex out sung Lauren - at what I can't remember!

We didn't quite make it to midnight, but the kids did wonderfully well and we ALL had a simply fabulous evening - can't wait till the next one!!

Thanks so much Charmaine xx

Christmas part II

2012-01-01T12:53:00.002Z

Our Boxing Day was spent as usual at Lee's parents.

We arrived late morning and the kids and I were lucky to receive a stocking each

This gave the kids something to play with until after lunch when all 3 of them helped dish out the presents

I love presents :)

Nicholas loved his Lego sea plane

Alex loved his lego too :)

Bundle time after presents..

As if they didn't have enough of their own, I had help opening mine!

Thank you Nana..

We had a lovely day - thank you John & Barbara!

Present's galore!

2011-12-28T23:01:00.001Z

Christmas Day this year was going to be good as Cassandra was old enough to actually get involved and be excited and it was great :)

In our house, Santa always leaves each of the kids a present in the dining room and this year was no exception..

Alex asked for and got his Military Island...

Nicholas asked for and got his remote control buggy...

And Cassandra asked for a teddy bear which she got along with a kitchen!

A quick "Mummy and kids" photo shoot then allowed for the kids to each open their sack of pressies from Lee and I...

All were more than happy with what they received.

Then Mum arrived armed with another sack each!!

According to the boys, the best thing being their baby light sabres!

At one stage we even lost the 3 of them in all the paper!!

Nicholas was desperate to try out his car, so Lee took him and Alex over the road to the garages to play :)

A full on dinner followed sometime in the afternoon and the afternoon was spent eating goodies, chocolates and playing with what everyone had received.

A great day :) We'll do it all again tomorrow!!

Christmas Eve...

2011-12-24T21:54:00.002Z

'Twas the night before Christmas when all through the house, not a creature was stirring not even a mouse.

The stockings were hung by the chimney with care, in the hope that St Nicholas soon would be there..

Father Christmas, Father Christmas....

2011-12-24T21:52:00.002Z

I was a little late this year in taking the kids to visit the big man himself, but nevertheless, today - Christmas Eve, Lee and I took the 3 sproglets to Alton Garden centre where I'd heard that he may be in residence for the day...

Cassandra did brilliantly - she even sat on his lap without a fuss and despite not looking too happy, enjoyed the visit - as did the boys who told him EXACTLY what they wanted him to bring them as a present later!

All I want for Christmas...

2011-12-20T19:19:00.001Z

Today I was so, so proud of my eldest little man.

After a busy day which included Christmas tree making at our local library and face painting, I had to take Alexander to the dentist as he had to have his two front bottom teeth removed.

At 7 1/2 he still hasn't lost any of his baby milk teeth, however his two big adult teeth had grown behind his baby ones, so out the baby ones had to come..

He was just so brave, after a spray numbing gel and an injection, the two offending teeth were removed to leave a very upset, but toothless little man.

Rest assured though, the tooth fairy will be on duty and visiting him tonight. Not only double whammy, but I've heard that she pays more per tooth too if you've had to have them removed, than if they just fall out...

Wherever You Are...

2011-12-18T21:56:00.002Z

I've just sat and listened and watched the Military Wives Christmas song "Wherever You Are" and I'm now balling my eyes out...

PLEASE buy this song and make it No.1 this year. All proceeds go to The Soldiers, Sailors, Airman Families Association and The Royal British Legion.

Wherever You Are - Military Wives Choir - click here!

Walking in a Winter Wonderland

2011-12-11T22:17:00.001Z

A few of my friends had, over the last few years told me about the wonderful Winter Wonderland that is created up in Hyde Park, London every Christmas. So this year, I booked us all tickets to go - Mum too :)

Her and Alex misbehaved before we'd even got on the train, but I told Mum that she'd be on the naughty step if she wasn't good, so she left the kids alone! LOL!

The first ride everyone wanted to go on was the carousel - which was great (apart from Nicholas climbed on the only bloomin' horse that didn't go up and down, so he then had the hump)...

And Cassie is in that "I'm not going to smile for any photo at all" phase.

I then took Alex and Cassandra on Santa train for a ride around...

Whilst Lee took Nicholas on the rollercoaster!

The boys thought that Christmas had come early when they saw the House of Sweets stall..

Although at one time, our little elves weren't so merry!

I'd booked for us all to go ice skating and even Cassie gave it a go. Granted, it wasn't too much of a success, but we all tried it (bar Mum, who was happy to play photographer has no balance at all)!!

A few more rides later including the reindeer one..

And the swings...

We went to Zippo's Circus which EVERYONE loved.

Whilst it was a great day out, it was also a very expensive day out. So not sure we'd do it again... maybe something different for next year :)

St Cedd's Christmas party

2011-12-11T21:52:00.001Z

Well, the rounds of Chrimbo parties has began and all the kids attended the Mendip Community Assoc. annual kids part at our local church on Saturday afternoon.

Most of the local kids were there (bar some who's Mum's couldn't be bothered to get dressed - you know who you are - LOL!!!!!) and we walked up the road with Tina, Tom and James and Sam, Scott and Lexi.

All kids had their friends there and after much fun, lots of games and far too many e-numbers a quick visit to Father Christmas rounded off the afternoon nicely.

Nicholas was a very good big brother and looked after his sister wonderfully!

Whilst us Mum's and Dad, sat, chatted and drank tea!

Grandpa's Birthday

2011-12-11T21:18:00.001Z

I only had one little man in the school Christmas production titled "Grandpa's Birthday" this year, as upper school tend to do a show at Easter, (although this year they're not) but I managed to secure an extra ticket so Nicholas had a supporter at each production.

It was good to see the real story of Christmas done with a different slant - what with it being Grandpa's birthday too :)

Nicholas' class were travelers (don't ask) but did their dance on stage wonderfully!

Despite Mum, Lee and I all attending we didn't get that many good photos as there was just too many kids in the production this year, but Nicholas enjoyed himself, we were very proud of him and that's all that matters!

I did it!!!!!!!!

2011-12-08T21:20:00.001Z

I'm in total shock - I got my results through today and after what seemed like an eternity of studying a subject that although I found very interesting, was totally incomprehensible to me - I PASSED!!!!!!!!

WOOOOOOOOOOP WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOP!!!!

Onwards with Psychology now..

Camp!!!

2011-11-27T11:16:00.001Z

I couldn't believe that my little boy was big enough for Beavers camp, but he was, so last weekend Nicholas went off with this big bro to Winter camp with his Beavers Scout group.

The Beavers are still to young to actually sleep in tents (good job really as it was really cold) so they stay in dorms inside - both Nicholas and Alex were there a little early, so managed to grab two of the top bunks!

They were warned by Sue, not to fight or she'd split them up, but I think Alex was secretly pleased to be there on hand to help his little brother.

Nicholas in particular had a fabby first camp. He stayed in the same clothes the whole weekend and probably didn't wash either, but he came home very tired, but a happy (and grubby) little man.

Roll on the next one!

Finally....

2011-11-27T11:10:00.001Z

After waiting a whole year, being a dedicated Twi-hard fan that I am, I was rather excited that Breaking Dawn part 1 finally came out in cinema's on 18th November 2011!!!!

I had my tickets to go and see it on opening night with my best friend Michelle and her friend Heidi and we weren't disappointed - it was brilliant!!!!!

Edward finally married Bella, got her pregnant and turned her into a Vampire.

Bring on part II - next year!!!!

Parents Evening

2011-11-27T10:58:00.001Z

It was that time of the academic year again, when us parents get to go and talk about our kids and how they're doing at school and as expected, there were no surprises with either of ours.

Alexander is doing great, needs to speed up with his work and improve his handwriting (lots), but he's top group for everything so I'm happy.

Nicholas is just flying. Again, top group everything and a very happy, active and co-operative member of the class apparently.

Happy parents :)

It's a pretty and ugly thing...

2011-11-27T10:53:00.001Z

Lee and I love going to the theatre - although these days we don't get to go as often as we'd like - but when I found out SODS (Southend Operatic and Dramatic Society) were putting on a performance of Beauty & the Beast, I just had to get tickets.

Their shows are always amazing, it's like you could almost be watching a professional show - and this year they didn't disappoint - it was brilliant.

Next year is Sound of Music - I've already got tickets!!!

Remembrance Sunday

2011-11-26T21:41:00.001Z

Since Alexander has been a Beaver Scout, he has attended Church Parade on a regular basis with both Mum and I also going along to support him. One of the most important church parade's is the Remembrance Service.

This year, Nicholas went too. They had both made additional special scarves to wear over their group ones and Mum recently completed wonderful scrapbook layout of them..

Achievements all round...

2011-11-06T22:02:00.001Z

So, not only did Alex do brilliantly this week, but Nicholas did too as he went up a reading level at school!!!

And as for Cassie, well, the dummy fairy visited last night and took all her dummies away for someone else and left her a nice little baby in a buggy as a present in return....

Tonight's bedtime was interesting!!!

Our little Beaver Scout

2011-11-06T22:01:00.002Z

So proud of our little man - not only did he get Star of the Week on Friday for his fabby and brilliant homework last week, but today, he went to Chelmsford to attend the Scouting Awards ceremony where he received his Chief Scout Bronze Award.

His Beavers leader Sue Davis was there to support him..

And Alex was awarded his certificate by Jan Dear of District..

4 others from 3rd Prittlewell also received their awards...

But our boy was the best!!!

Sharon x

Gunners rule!

2011-10-30T22:02:00.002Z

John (the father-in-law) recently bought Nicholas a "Junior Gunners" membership to Arsenal. One of the perks of this gift was a tour of the Emirates Stadium, so yesterday, Lee took him up to London and they both had a fabby time.

Lee said one of his best bits was when Nicholas saw his idol's shirt hanging in the changing rooms, he just went up to it and stood there staring at it.

Nicholas, on the other hand, said the best bit was running down the team tunnel almost onto the pitch!

It's obviously a guy thing, 'cos honestly, I still don't get the whole football thing!

Spooky times

2011-10-30T21:43:00.004Z

Next to Christmas, one of the best events of the year for me has to be Halloween. I just love all the spookiness and dressing up and trick or treating etc etc.

This year, Alex was "Dr Doom" - complete with mask, and my attempt at a face full of blood. Nicholas was a dead pirate, again, with blood running down his face!

On Wednesday of half term, Michelle Gray and I took Nathan & Darcy and Alexander & Nicholas to Partyman World of Play in Basildon's halloween party.

Michelle didn't get quite as dressed up as I did, but she made a spooky effort!

Not quite as good as it was last year (not enough sweeties being given out) but the kids all loved it!

Alex was chosen for his dancing and won a fabby set of Moonsand and a one off family pass to Partyman - which Nicholas will obviously benefit from too :)

One extra bonus was the fact that we all got to go and have a game of laser quest - in Partyman's new arena they've just had built. Now that was fun!

I think everyone had a great time?!!!

Ladies Night

2011-10-23T17:51:00.001+01:00

My father-in-law John is a Freemason and belong's to Quoin Stone Lodge. Last night we were his guests at his lodge's Ladies Night, held at the Four Rivers Golf & Country Club.

After changing dresses about four times, I finally settled on this little blue number that I'd never worn and having had my hair done earlier in the day, I felt quite pleased with the results... Lee of course looked as gorgeous as ever in his rented tux (don't even ask, he does own one) and I think we looked a yummy couple!

Lee's sister - Lisa and her hubby Greg were also in attendance..

John of course had to be different and chose to wear his white tux jacket...

And as the official photos show, everyone looked lovely.

John & Barbara's close friends Adrian and Denise were also guests on our table and I must admit, Adrian still has it in him to swing me around on the dance floor to brilliant sounds of Rock On - the 50's & 60's band that was the entertainment for the evening.

The meal was scrummy, the drinks flowed and everyone had a brilliant time. Thank you loads John - can't wait for the next one!

Just scrummy...

2011-10-18T08:06:00.001+01:00

I'm not known for my culinary skills, but on Sunday I cooked off some apples from my Uncle Tony's garden, added some blackberries and made a crumble. Lashings of Ambrosia custard just topped it off nicely.

There's not much left, so it can't of been that bad!!!

I like to ride my bicycle...

2011-10-16T21:23:00.001+01:00

For ages I've been saying that I'd like us all to get out on our bikes, so I took the bull by the horns last week and managed to lay my hands on one of those child carrier seats that attaches to the back of an adult bike.

So today, Lee fixed the seat on and we all set out on a bike ride, helmets and all - Cassandra's of course being PINK!

Considering the distance we went - on route to the Belfairs park (the long way round of course) the boys did BRILLIANTLY, although Cassie did say that she didn't like being on Daddy's bike as it was too bumpy!

She'll have to get used to it as we're hoping to book to go to Center Parcs next year and bikes are the way forward!

Proud Mummy moment...

2011-10-03T20:43:00.002+01:00

Tonight, I was so proud of BOTH my boys.

After watching Alex go off every Monday night, Nicholas is finally old enough (almost, he should officially be 6, but Sue - his Leader accepts them into her group from 5 3/4) to join Beavers and tonight, he was invested in 3rd Prittlewell colony.

Alexander, after completing numerous other and all 6 of his challenge badges, achieved his Bronze Scout award. He's been invited to attend an award presentation ceremony in November at Scout HQ in Chelmsford.

Sharon
xxx

Scrapbook Getaways Retreat

2011-09-26T21:45:00.002+01:00

I had SUCH a great time at my weekend scrappin' retreat that I completed 18 layouts and have 9 more just to play around with to finish off. I was really pleased with my efforts - some are better than others, but all are different!

I was trying to catch up and get more up to date, so I tried to scrap some photos that were a bit older, hence LOADS of Cassie!

The weekend itself was run by a lady called Christine of Scrapbook Getaways and she was brill. The hotel was first class, the food amazing (I put on 3lb whilst there) and it was real value for money! Even better were the ladies that attended - I made a couple of new friends that I hope to see sometime again.

I've booked to go to another retreat in June, but don't tell Lee!!!

A weekend away!!!

2011-09-22T22:41:00.001+01:00

So, just how excited am I allowed to be about this weekend!?!?!? Friday, Saturday and Sunday with no kids & no hubby to spend doing nothing but sticking and glueing - that would be scrapbooking to those not in the know!

Love my family to bits, but sometimes I just need a bit of me time and there is no better way than to get caught up in creating a memory page (of my family) surrounded by lots of bits of paper, embellishments, chipboard, buttons, ribbons etc etc.

I can check in from 12 noon, so Basingstoke here I come!!!

Back to School!

2011-09-06T21:18:00.001+01:00

I just can't get my head round the fact that Alexander is going back to school to be in JUNIORS!! Year 3 for him and Nicholas into Year 1.

Before the off - in the pouring rain!

Nicholas and his new teacher - Miss Hipsey

Alexander and his new teacher - Mrs Ambrose

I hope they work hard and do well this year!

Week 6

2011-09-06T21:17:00.005+01:00

NOT feeling the love - Google have changed all their blogger set up and layout and it's hard work now - grrr...

Anyway, the lat week of the hols was good. Monday was Bank Holiday and I'd decided that I was going to do the boot sale up at school. I did pretty well and made about £45 :) Alex wasn't very well today, so we didn't really do much else..

Tuesday Alex was still getting over his "bug" so we popped round to Mum's for the day and ended up at Priory Park which the kids loved as they've got loads of new stuff there. Bar Alex of course who was most miffed that they've got rid of his slide!

Whilst Cassie was at nursery on Wednesday, I took the boys over to Barling and they spent the morning at "Pony Club" - riding, learning about, and grooming the ponies. They said they had a great time :)

Thursday the boys were at Deanes for the last time at Gymnastics & Trampolining and I took Cassie over to Farmer Fred's Playbarn in Benfleet to meet up with Helen and her little girl Emma.

On Friday - the boys spent the morning with Mum as I desperately needed a hair cut (all short again) and in the afternoon we just chilled.

I scrapbooked for most of Saturday, but left early to take Alex to Calum Harkes birthday party at Belfairs swimming pool - Water Walkers! Apparently Alex was one of the best ones there - think it could of been
as he's done it before, but whatever, he had a GREAT TIME!

Sunday Mum flew out to America (again) with Brianne and I caught up with family in the afternoon.

All in all and good last week.

Week 5

2011-08-29T19:55:00.009+01:00

I'm officially on countdown (not that I haven't been for the last 5 weeks too, but hey...) until the kids all go back to school. Just over one week to go!!!

This week Alex was at Mad Science and he loved every day he was there. He still hasn't found his "niche/thing", but he does enjoy his science....

Nicholas was at Deanes on Monday doing Rounders & Dodgeball. Once all kids had been picked up, we headed over to the in-laws as it was Barbara's birthday, for tea and cake - yum!

Tuesday saw us meeting up with Lyn and her two sproglets Zach and Paige - were supposed to be venturing over to the woods, but the wet weather put paid to those plans, so it was a play date at our house instead.

On Wednesday i got to spend the day with my youngest son and I'd promised him breakfast out, so we found a lovely little cafe in Leigh called "Hippo's" and we've made it ours. Although may just have to find another one as I wasn't that impressed with it. Toast and a bacon sandwich later, we were full and ready for the cram packed day Nicholas had planned for us both. I really enjoyed spending some quality 1:1 time with him, even if he did end up playing on the PC for a bit in the afternoon whilst I sorted out my Avon!

Thursday was kind of a chores day/mess about day and on Friday we met up with Michelle to go over to Wat Tyler on our bikes. However, despite it being the middle of summer, the constant rain made that idea not viable, so we tossed a coin and ended up over at Partyman in Basildon. £30 later to get 4 kids and 2 adults in for 2 hours of play - we wont be going again! Still, Mich and I got to have a good catch up!

Saturday was THE day I'd been looking forward to all holidays. Mum had kindly agreed to have Cassie for the day as I'd booked for Lee and I and the boys to go and see "Batman Live" at the 02 Arena and we weren't disappointed. It was absolutely FANTASTIC!!!! I dont' know who enjoyed it more, Lee and I or the boys?!!! We had fabby seats (and so we should of for the amount of money they cost) but it was a show like I've never seen before and I've been to a few! The "bad guys" were just great - The Joker, Riddler, Penguin, Harliquinn, Two Face, Catwoman, Poison Ivy and Scarecrow , but the best bit had to of been when the batmobile came on stage and Batman drove off in it!! Lee and I were jumping around and yelling and the boys were just looking at us like silly people. Pure classic comic book stuff was at the end when Batman and Robin ran off with their capes flying behind them... just brilliant.

Sunday was a bit of a wash out day as Alex was rather poorly - so it turned into a "jobs" day - cleaning out the guinea pigs, tidying out the shed, homework etc etc. I also had to sort out some stuff and load the car as Blenhim's bootsale was scheduled for Bank Holiday Monday and I wanted to do a boot. The Belgium GP was on too, that was Lee gone for the afternoon whilst doing all the ironing of course - what a good hubby... OU study in the eve led to brain overload and an episode of Vampire Diaries before bed.

Bring on "Week 6"!

Week 4

2011-08-27T22:11:00.015+01:00

This week was just as full on as the others with visits to the local library to complete the Circus Summer Reading challenge for the boys - they were pleased they got a free bowling voucher each!

We meet up with Sarah on Tuesday as her two boys are friends with my two boys which was nice and then Lee and I took them all to Chalkwell fair in the afternoon - half price rides!

Wednesday was a lazy day all round, in readiness for a full on day at Adventure Island with Dawn and her kids Andie & Max and Tara and her little boy Lennon. Everyone had a brill time and everyone got to go on lots of rides - The mummies included!

On Friday, I finally managed to catch up with my friend Gemma who'd had a baby boy two weeks earlier and to say he's yummy is an understatement. Got me all broody again.....

I escaped on Saturday and spent the WHOLE day scrapbooking in good company at Eastwood Scrappers where I got lots of layouts started, although not many totally finished!

And it was Josh Duce's birthday this week, so on Sunday afternoon, I took all the kids over the road to Charmaine's for lots of bouncy castle fun!

So, another week closer to the wee ones going back to school... you never know, they may just make it!!!

Week 3....

2011-08-19T12:14:00.010+01:00

Well, all 3 kids are still breathing - just... and this week we were still all on the go..

On Monday - our first prot of call was Pets at Home (again) to replace Alex's guinea pig Muffin that escaped from the run last week and we think got eaten by the fox. Custard is now our new addition. From there we met up with some of the other Mum's and headed over to Grays Beach - which a smaller version of Promanade Park, Maldon - just more enclosed - felt a little safer letting the kids go off. Will def. be going there again (if I can find it that is)!

Tuesday was a day spent with Mum and we took the kids down to the beach for a bit in the morning and where we were had one of those small pool areas that stays full of water when the tide goes out, so I ended up buying them all crabbing nets, not that they caught anything!

The afternoon was spent at Southchurch park - do like it there, enough for all the kids to do.

Wednesday was the first day of Nicholas's 3 day mini football camp and he was well excited. So wants to follow in the footsteps of Robin van Persie! Cassandra was at nursery so I got some much needed 1:1 time with my eldest. Alex and I went into town to our "little cafe" and had a late breakfast of toast and then just spent the day doing stuff together which included making some stacking candles!

Thursday Nicholas was again at football, so I took Cassie and Alex swimming to Garrons which was a lot of fun.

Friday Alex joined Nicholas at Deanes - for Dodgeball & Waterzone which he absolutely loved. Cassie was at nursery so I had about 4 hours to myself - which were spent cleaning and catching up on paperwork /making phone calls :) When all 3 sprogletts had been collected we zoomed into town to Clarkes (great place, they now do appointments) so I could fork out nearly £100 on 3 new pairs of school shoes... Cassie went up 2 sizes!!!!

I treated the boys on Saturday by taking them to Empire Juniors to see Rio which they liked whilst Lee spent time in town with his daughter.

And the last day of of the week - Sunday Lee spent time with the boys building a run up for the guinea pigs to the top level of their hutch and raising the hutch higher off the floor - to avoid any cat/fox encounters...

So - into week 4....

We find, we loose....

2011-08-10T14:32:00.003+01:00

The saga of the guinea pigs is far from over..

To cut a long story short, we got two guinea pigs last Monday - Muffin and Donught. Within 3 hours of having them, one had squirmed it's way out of my hands and escaped! Then came the entire rest of the day trying to catch the dam thing. We put rows of food out, Tina cameover and we tried to find it under the shed, I brought the other one in, left the cage open, etc etc, but no return...

Tuesday came and went and Nicholas was getting more upset. So Tuesday night I said to him that Donught was probably off on an adventure with a new little mouse friend or something and we'd go and get him a new pig the following day.

Which is what we did, another £25 later, Biscuit settled in nicely...

But then a couple of hours later - Donught was spotted - hiding under the hutch - so then came the palava of trying to entice him into the "squirral trap" that we'd bought (another £20) which we finally did. So now we have 3 guinea pigs - Biscuit now being Cassie's...

Well, actually not. As on Sunday, I'd put all 3 guinea pigs in their run that we'd bought, but Lee had moved it from where I'd placed it. So we come home from spending the day with friends, to find that Muffin had escaped - gone under the run and through the gap as our garden is not entirely flat. So now I have Alex all upset....

Despite us doing all the same things as last time, Muffin is still on the loose...

Think it may cost me ANOTHER £25 to get another dam guinea pig at the weekend at this rate...

Week 2.....

2011-08-08T21:32:00.009+01:00

And the summer hols continue..

This week saw us on Monday meet up with some of the other Mum's and kids from school. We all ventured over to Promanade Park at Maldon. It was a beautiful day so all the kids managed to get a session in the splash area and the pirate sand ship was a big success as always too...

On Tuesday, Mum and I took the kids to Tropical Wings - Nicholas' choice as he'd been there recently with his class on his school trip. Although we had a nice time, the kids all played up so much we came home earlier than planned, which was disappointing, but hey ho..

Cassie so didn't like the big chickens!!!

On Wednesday, Alex came over with her little boy Harrison to play with Nicolas and Alex and her daughter Courtney came too. This was a golden opportunity knocking as I signed them up as one of my team for Avon! Hope they do REALLY well...

Thursday was the day Lee finally came home from South Africa and it was great to have him home. He had a GREAT time at Kruger National park and took over 3,000 photos - I'm soooooooooo looking forward to seeing all of them!!!

On Friday after dropping Cassie at Nursery and doing some "gem work" (6 weeks is far to long for kids not to do any work over the hols), I took the boys to Rayleigh Mega Play for Nicholas to play with Niamh in the soft play area and Alex to go for a game of quaser with Calum. They all had a good time and Rachel and I got to sit and have a good ole chat and catch up..

The weekend finally arrived and Saturday was my day off - a well deserved day of scrapbooking at Jackie's crop in Benfleet and I had a wonderful day and got LOADS of pages completed.

Sunday saw us driving over to Tiptree for a late BBQ lunch with Claire and Graham and their 2 kids - (Nicholas has a "thing" for their daughter, Eloise) and despite the rainy weather everyone had a lovely day.

So, onwards to week 3 - I may just get through these 6 weeks yet....

Two new additions..

2011-08-02T14:22:00.006+01:00

After much deliberation and encouragement from the kids that they wanted a "pet" we settled on some guinea pigs! We actually went to get them last week, but despite every other time we've ever been into the pet shop, they've always had both rabbitts and guinea pigs in stock, when we wanted to buy some, they didn't have any!

So, yesterday morning the kids and I were there at 9am to choose our two boy guinea pigs :)

The boys both got to choose one and funnily enough they both chose a cream colour one, Nicholas' having a paler stripe down it's head. We brought them home and set up all the hutch with bedding, food and water etc and then introduced Muffin (Alex's) and Donught (Nicholas) to their new home...

The first week..

2011-08-02T07:47:00.011+01:00

Well, we're into the second week of the summer hols and my 3 kids are still alive and kicking - I must be slacking!

We've as usual, had a busy week - although on Monday I tried to keep things a little low key and we just went to the library to register the kids for the Circus read, and popped round to see Mum - the kids wanted to put on a show for us, but they also wanted volunteer's to take part - reminded me of me when I was little!

On Tuesday, I took the kids over to Thorndon Country Park to an Indiana Jones morning - we had to follow clues to find the Holy Grail - all the kids had great fun running around in the woods..
On Wednesday, Cassie was at nursery - which is good as get to do stuff with the boys that I can't always do with her around. So in the morning I took the boys over to a cosmetic workshop and we made bath bombs, bath oil and aftershave. Then we met up with the Harkes' at Chalkwell park for a play..

Thursday was an emotional day as we had to take Lee to his parents as he was leaving for South Africa to go on Safari with his Dad and Brother-in-law. So after, I took the kids to a big "Working Together against Crime" event in Basildon - on the train! They love travelling on a train for some reason... they were all quite good and both Nicholas and Cassandra had their faces painted whilst we were there..

Friday, Cassie was back in nursery, so I took the boys to Fun Swim up at school and then treated the boys to an event of their choice at "Action Park"- they choose to go on the quad bikes!! They both said they were awesome, even if Alex did take the corner too fast and stack the bike!!

Saturday was really just a dossy day, although Nicholas wanted to count all his money, but one of his moneyboxes the hole was too small to get anything out, so I ended up smashing it. Then came the adventure of trying to find another moneybox - how hard can this be - very actually! We ended up over at The Factory Shop in Rochford, where Nicholas choose a globe. This was good as I was able to point out where Lee had gone in relation to England :)

Sunday saw us over at a Family Fun Day in Eastwood where both Alex and Nicholas enjoyed a go in the Water Walkers there and Cassie loved the old fashioned swings.

After that one, we ventured over to Rochford as one of Mum's friends had told us about a Pony sanctury that was having a charity event, and the kids loved that one even more as they had some cheap 20p/30p stalls they could have a go on. The best bit for Alex was the actual pony ride though...

So, all in all we've had a good week..

Sales Leader

2011-07-21T21:26:00.002+01:00

As if i don't have enough to do to keep me busy, I've just become an Avon Sales Leader!

I've always done sales, I did one of Mum's Avon rounds when I was 16, so been there, done that sort of thing. Wasn't planned, just kind of came about, but I'm well on board now..

I've signed up 4 new reps already, and I need 6 to qualify as a leader - so pls, if you are interested in earning some extra pennies or know anyone else that may be, contact me anyway you can!

Peppa Pig World

2011-07-18T20:38:00.015+01:00

Despite trying, to no avail, on the day to change the booking due to the terrible weather, we all set off down to Southampton to Paultons Family Theme park, which has just had Peppa Pig World built...

We didn't get there until lunch time, but God must of been looking down on us, as the rain stopped and we got to go round the park relatively dry! This wasn't the case on Sunday however!

We headed straight for Peppa world to Cassie's squeals of excitement...

Grandpa Pig's boat and train ride, Windy Castle, Big Balloon, Daddy Pig's car ride etc etc, we did them all!

The boys loved George's dinosaur ride, which was the only one Cass couldn't go on, being 1/2cm too short!

Cass was in her element when she actually got to meet Peppa and George!

Alex (being a big 7) was a little bored, but we promised him we'd go round some of the other bit of the theme park after, and he could choose the first ride, so he cheered up a bit..

We then ventured out to the theme park itself and went on all we could time and weather permitting. Both boys loved the water chute...

and I was soooo proud of Alex, going on the cobra roller coaster - Nicholas being the fearless one he is, told me it was totally awesome!

I got a little sick on the ole swings, but was worth it for Nicholas to go on too :)

I fibbed to the ride steward and said Cassie was 3, so she got to go on a roller coaster although she told Daddy that she "didn't like it" apparently when she came off!

Think she preferred the Ladybird ride with her big brother!

Despite the rain, (it really isn't fun to go round a theme park with it hammering it down) our two day pass and overnight accommodation at a Holiday Inn inc breakfast was a dam good deal - just remind me not to do the "family room" thing again!!!

The Butler Family

2011-07-17T22:32:00.001+01:00

Look what I found from Tiddywinks.com!!

Swim Gala II

2011-07-15T13:38:00.005+01:00

Just as Nicholas had his gala on Wednesday, Alexander had his school swimming gala this morning..

I don't think Alex enjoyed it as much as Nicholas did as the school have this policy of not encouraging the children to compete against each other. As such the ones that are good at something, and Alex is a very good swimmer (he should be really, after being at swim school since he was 9 months old) tend to be put in a team with others that are, how shall I say, less able? Consequently, he never wins or comes close... His team, the blue team, came 4th (out of 4).

So when it came to doing a Year 2 boys race, he didn't want to compete, cos he was in a p'd off mood - don't blame him really...

Still, Calum Harkes did fabby by winning

with Nathan Gray a close second.

Well done to eveyone!

Swim gala

2011-07-13T18:32:00.005+01:00

Nicholas had his swimming gala at school today, although for the kids in Reception, it was more of a fun swim, lets show how confident we've all got in the water..

Whatever it was called, Nicholas had a good time!

Just keep swimming...

2011-07-08T11:16:00.001+01:00

Another very proud Mummy Moment yesterday...

Nicholas achieved his Stanley 7 swimming badge! Way to go little man - we're very proud of you!!!

On a roll

2011-07-08T11:12:00.001+01:00

Having a good "me time" day today, and even finished Total Papercraft's layout from Wednesday. Altered it a little, but I'm happy with the end results!

Fish Pedicure

2011-07-08T10:14:00.005+01:00

Our local beauty salon has just got the latest craze in - a fish pedicure.

It sounded interesting.... So, I mentioned it to my friend Sam and she was like - oooh I want to do it, so she talked me into it too and off we went.

Clean feet done, then came the hard part of actually putting your feet in the tank of water with the little fishes swimming around.... Sam went first.... I wasn't that brave!

It was a very strange feeling, as soon as you put your feet near the water, all the fish come up and try to attach themselves to them!

The hardest part was actually putting your feet in the water, as the fish were like piranah's - they just all grab on and start nibbling away at the dead skin on your feet.. They don't have any teeth, so it didn't hurt at all.

They even go up your ankles! Didn't quite enjoy the feeling of them between my toes, but it was a very strange experience.

Would I do it again? probably - my feet came out lovely and smooth and after a quick file down of my heels they look good too :)

Thank you Tranquility for getting such a good new treatment in!

Summer fete!

2011-07-03T16:10:00.005+01:00

Saturday was the day of Blenheim Primary school's summer fete and as secretary of the PTA, I was there just after 9 helping set up.

My stall this year (just as last year) was the Crazy Kitchen - a fabby stall where all the kids get to throw wooden balls and try to smash some crockery!

Thanks to the wonderful idea of Michelle and the fabby hand-on of her hubby Dave, our stall was up and ready for action early, allowing me to help set up everything else!

Mum brought Alex up (as he'd been to Leigh Fire Station's open day earlier) and Lee brought Nicholas and Cassandra up in the afternoon.

Alex was keen to help out on the stall - taking the money (smart kid)...

but Cassie wanted to play on the bouncy castles..

and Nicolas was more than happy to have his face painted

We were very lucky with the weather, and everyone seemed to have a great day. I just hope we made lots of pennies for the school!

Swimming!!

2011-06-28T11:52:00.001+01:00

Cassie achieved her very first swim badge today - ASA Duckling 1!

I'm so proud of our little lady :)

I PASSED!!!

2011-06-21T18:51:00.002+01:00

"Psychology - the science of the mind and behaviour"

I did it!!!!!

I passed my previous OU course today: Y163 - Starting Psychology, by achieving all 8 objectives and I'm thrilled!!

Another 10 points in the bag :)

Latest scrapbook layout

2011-06-16T20:53:00.003+01:00

Despite desperately wanting to scrap Florida, (I have a WHOLE Disney album)!! I managed to go along to the Total Papercrafts club last night and today finished the layout that Tracey designed.

I'm quite pleased with the results to be honest - a yummy layout of Cassandra and her little friend Lexie Garrett..

M I C K E Y M O U S E

2011-06-10T13:03:00.001+01:00

We're back!!!!!!

Had a BRILLIANT time, didn't want to come home. Photos, news and that will be posted soon :)

In the meantime, sing a long with a well known tune from the Disney parade..

Noooooooooooooooo!!!!

2011-05-23T20:55:00.001+01:00

Dam Icelandic volcano - doesn't it know we're due to fly out to America on Thursday!?!??!

Please can everyone keep their fingers crossed the ash cloud goes the other way!!!

7 days to go!!!!

2011-05-19T21:06:00.000+01:00

This time next week we'll be in Florida!!!!!!!

Harry Potter

2011-05-19T20:38:00.012+01:00

Well, the preparations took weeks and weeks - but it was all worth it!

I'm in the middle of creating another blog, dedicated entirely to the HP party and will post the link here and on Facebook, but in the meantime a quick synopsis:

Alexander turned 7 and wanted a wizard (namely Harry Potter) party. So.... 5 guest plus my two = 7 students to Hogwarts. All students were asked to arrive with a broomstick...

During "Orientation" the students visited:

Gringott’s Bank
Madame Malkin’s Robes for Every Occasion

Eeylops Owl Emporium

Olivander’s Wands

Classes came next, the first being Divination and being taught by Professor Trelawney (AKA Mum) and boy did she look the part!

Potions Class

Spells, Incantations and Charms Class

Defence against the Dark Arts Class

Quidditch training

Considering I'd gone with the standard 2 hour party, it was a good job all the kids were staying for a sleep over as events seriously over ran so we never did two of the potions in potions class or Care of Magical Creatures class! I just about remembered to order pizza for supper!

When a child tells you that it's the best party he's ever been to - it makes all the hard work worth while...

Big girl!

2011-05-06T13:58:00.002+01:00

Well it seemed a good idea, at 2 that Cassie went into a big girl's bed... Peppa Pig and all, but no. Would she stay in it? No. So, an hour and half later when she finally fell asleep, we had to pick her up and put her into bed.

Fingers crossed for tonight....

Birthday boy!

2011-05-06T13:54:00.001+01:00

I can't believe that Alexander turned 7 on Wednesday.... where did the time go?

He was a very happy bunny in the morning as we had bought him a DSi XL that he'd been going on about for AGES. We also got him Mario Kart to go with it and amongst his other pressies, Mum bought him Harry Potter for it - and he's already completed 2 levels apparently...

After school I took the kids over to Rayleigh Mega Play for a play and tea and Nannie, Nana & Grandad came along too. Daddy meet us there after work.

Not the clearest of photos (Lee hasn't edited them yet) but he liked his DS cake!

All the preparations have been undertaken for the much talked about Harry Potter party tomorrow night... all will be revealed soon...

Easter Hols

2011-04-24T22:17:00.008+01:00

To be honest, I was not looking forward to the Easter hols as having three kids at home 24/7 for two weeks, all fighting, moaning, whinging and generally playing up was not a good thought.

The first week was hard, but this week just gone, a good few days have made up for the bad ones.

We sold the boys' pedal go kart the other week and bought an 8f trampoline which ALL the kids have been on constantly since Lee and his Dad built it...

We finally pursuaded Alexander to try out football at Leigh Rockets and the day he went the Evening Echo were there taking pictures of the team, so Lee had to do the same! (Alex 3rd from left on back row in blue Arsenal away kit and Nicholas 1st on left in front row in red Arsenal kit)!

Our annual Easter egg hunt in Belfairs woods was a hit with Kelly Morgan-Blancke creating a fabby clue driven hunt that the kids enjoyed...

I took the kids to a couple of bootsales where they got some goodies and Lee and Alex throughly enjoyed playing "Battleships" one Sunday afternoon.

Water fights in the garden, trips to the park with friends, friends coming over to play, and going to their's for fun in their pool. Falling in love, eating chocolate Easter eggs for breakfast (guess I wont be winning the "Healthy Mum of year" comp there), egg hunt's at Nannie's house...

It hasn't been all bad I guess.

Back to school on Tuesday :)

Chessington!

2011-04-12T16:18:00.007+01:00

A teacher training day at school meant that last Monday Lee and I took the kids off to Chessington World of Adventure for the day.

Despite it taking nearly 3 hours to get there due to a major multi vehicle accident on the motorway, we had a fabby day.

The boys knew what they wanted to go on, but it was Cassie's first visit and she loved it! She could actually sit on a horse on the Carousel on her own with me standing next to her and her smile said it all!

The trucks have always been a favourite especially as all the kids and moi could go on, and this time was no exception...

Nicholas was finally tall enough to go on the Vampire ride and after some encouragement, Alex went on too!

Lee enjoyed the runaway train ....

but I think Alex enjoyed the swings best!

I love teacher training days!

Mummy's Day

2011-04-12T16:05:00.007+01:00

It comes round so fast, but both Mum and I as Mummy's had a great day last week.

I awoke to a yummy breakfast in bed - a bacon sarnie and a cuppa kindly made by the boys and then after a couple of very nice gifts, I took Alex to church parade where he was thrilled that he got to carry his pack flag and both Mum and I got a posy of flowers he made.

When we got back from church, there were more gifts including a flower pot with flowers in that each of the kids did for Nannie...

Then it was on to a yummy dinner at Strawberry Fields with Mum too.

Days like last Sunday make it all worthwhile being a Mum...

We need a plan of attack...

2011-04-04T20:59:00.008+01:00

Alex's Year 2 class went to Mount Fitchit near Stanstead last Friday and I was lucky enough to get picked from the parent volunteers to tag along as a "responsible adult" (something went wrong there, but anyway)....

Alex and I with a Knight!

Their term's topic has obviously been "castle's" and Alex is loving it! he's built a castle at home from junk and in "Knight school" has progressed from a squire to a fully fledged knight! He can also readily tell me about William the Conqueror etc etc. My amazing little man even taught me something the other day - apparently "crenalations" are the square castle looking bits on the top of a castle wall. hummmm...

My group at the top of the tower

Alex exploring a hut within the "Bailey"

Alex was enthralled by the make shift fire..

We had a great day out and Alex was made up I was with him on his school trip. Not sure I'll be invited back again though, as I don't think I was a good "sensible" influence on the kids!!!!!!

Cinderella

2011-03-31T19:19:00.000+01:00

I cry every time I hear this song, it's just touches my heart.

So, this is for every Daddy who has a beautiful little girl and to every little girl who has a wonderful Daddy....

Happy Birthday to me.....

2011-03-17T11:50:00.006Z

I had a fabby birthday last week which seemed to go on all week :)

On Monday I was treated to lunch by my bestest bud Rachel.

On my actual birthday of Wednesday, my other bestest bud Michelle took me to the cinema and to lunch and then in the evening after tea, cake and pressies, Mum and I went to see Agatha Christie's "The Verdict" at the Palace Theatre.

On Friday, the hubster and I went to Aroma for oodles of shreaded duck and to see "Adjustment Bureau" with the yummy Matt Damon in...

Finally, on Saturday, I was out with my girls to Zen City for more chinese food a very good evening was had by all!

Many thanks to everyone for their best wishes, cards and pressies, I felt truly loved!

Love your Smile

2011-03-11T10:23:00.002Z

I managed to finish the latest Total Papercrafts Masterclass layout -a gorgeous page with photos of our gorgeous girlie!

It's a girl!!!!

2011-03-05T12:59:00.003Z

Our good friends Stu & Xuan, after many years of trying, finally became the proud parents to Amanda Lauren last week.

Many many congrats to them both on the safe arrival of their BEAUTIFUL baby girl!

Dinosaur - raarrr!!!

2011-03-05T08:00:00.006Z

At half term, whilst Cassie was in nursery, Lee and I took the boys to "Dinosaurs Unleashed" up at the O2 in London.

It was AWESOME!!!

Whilst most of the photos didn't come out too well due to the lighting, the ones we got show just how HUGE these creatures were...

There were lots of interactive things for the boys to get involved with from computer quizes, fossil digging, and huge jigsaws...

My favourite has always been Steggy, Alex liked T-Rex (he would - the biggest and most fierce of them all) and Nicholas liked one that I can't even pronounce it's name!

Lee, being the big kid that he is, could name every single one and pronounce them all too... Apparently it's a "boy thing"?!?!

It's magic!!

2011-02-21T21:14:00.006Z

Alex is still talking about becoming a Wizard so last weekend I thought a bit of me and eldest son time was in order and I took him to the Palace Theatre to see the family magic show put on by the Southend Sorcerer's Society.

It was really good (some magician's were better than others) but Alex was so excited when he was chosen to be an assistant...

A wave of a wand and a few magic words later, a a goldfish appeared in the glass!!

So, magic is the order of the day now.... I'm thinking a Harry Potter party for his birthday....

I'm on a roll!

2011-02-11T10:33:00.003Z

I actually managed to finish last night's Total Papercraft's masterclass kit at class - mainly thanks to Karen being a diamond (in joke) and doing all the fiddly cutting. There was just NO WAY I would of sat and cut out that branch and leaves, but I does look rather good I must say...

I'm very pleased with the overall result...

So cute!

2011-02-09T13:46:00.002Z

I've been determined to finish this Total Papercrafts layout since last week, but what with the club's circle journal having started and having my Mum's journal first (making sure that my pages had to have that "wow" factor" so not to let the side down) I've only just had a chance to complete it.

I must admit, I'm quite happy with the result - although Cassandra does make for a good layout!!

Star striker in the making?!!

2011-02-06T20:53:00.008Z

One freezing and very windy day in February 2011
One very excited 5 year old
A muddy field

Nicholas was thrilled on Saturday morning when he finally started "training" with Leigh Rockets football team.

In a pair of football boots borrowed from Calum Harkes, Nicholas (despite the FREEZING cold weather) got well into running around after the ball...

The coach is trying to start up a new Under 6 team, but for now, Nicholas trained with the Under 7's..

He even got an opportunity to be goalie for part of the end of training match!

I was more happy with the tea tent a couple of the Mum's ran!!

So, I'm officially a "Soccer Mom" now!!

Nope....

2011-02-04T09:20:00.001Z

It's just not happening.

Our little lady is not quite there, so I've decided to put away the potty and try again at Easter - when it's also warmer (hopefully)!

A very good try by Cassandra, and we'll build on that in a few months time.

Day 1....

2011-01-31T20:37:00.004Z

t was indeed a LONG day today...

As soon as we got back from the school run, Cassandra and I went to find a nice new pair of knickers for her to wear instead of her nappy...

She choose a nice pink pair with fairies on and the day ensued... we did okay, she's got the jist of pulling her knickers up and down quite quickly, but she hasn't quite got the hang of sitting on the potty and actually doing a wee....

Today, she preferred to wee on the carpet and then say "Mummy, wee wee"!

Tomorrow is another day and patience perseverance is the key here I think (why am I doing this)???!!!!

We're going to try...

2011-01-30T21:24:00.002Z

Well, after a lovely day spent with the ole in-laws and Hannah showing Cassandra what a potty is all about - I'm going to give it a go this week. Still not sure that our little lady is 100% ready, but she tells us when she's been and doesn't like to be dirty or wet, so I thought let's just go for it and see........

Circle Journal

2011-01-24T20:50:00.004Z

I'm quite excited....

Karen at Total Papercrafts, the scrapbook club I attend twice a month has come up with an idea to encourage everyone to "get to know each other a little better" by taking part in a circle journal.

The concept of a circle journal is that you start a journal/album and send it on a journey around everyone taking part - in our case 13 of us, until it eventually comes back to you full of contributions from each member of the circle.

The hardest part for me was to finally settle on a "theme" - I had loads of ideas, from "Things I want to do before I die" or "My hero" or "Quotes that have touched my heart", but I finally settled on...

So basically, everyone's favourite film! It was suggested that if the theme's people chose were too hard then people would loose interest and that's not what I wanted and besides, everyone has a favourite film!

Mine is Titanic... We had to complete the first page/or two to give an example of what our journal was all about.

So, journal all complete with my pages done too, roll on February when it all starts!!

Great White Sharks assembly

2011-01-21T22:45:00.006Z

Yesterday, Alex took part in his school class assembly.

Their topic this term is Africa and they focused on The Lion King and the story/moral within it.

Everyone had lines to learn and nearly all the kids delivered their "bit" very well...

Some of the kids also had to make masks and Alex was very proud of his...

The fabby foursome - Oliver Knight, Alexander, Calum Harkes and Nathan Grey enjoyed their assembly, but more so the chocolate biscuits afterwards!!

Our little man is 5

2011-01-20T20:25:00.013Z

Well, how did that happen?

Nicholas was 5 last week and although has been a year coming, it kind of hit me that my little boy is growing up...

Having a birthday right after Christmas is a real downer, but Nicholas still managed to come up with a "wish list" top of it being a double ended light sabre!

After a good day at school, things didn't quite go to plan on his actual birthday, but I ended up taking all 3 kids along with Mum over to Little Monsters for an impromptu play/tea - complete with a Spiderman cake!

Then on the Saturday, 30 odd kids joined him at St Lawrence Church hall for a few hours of fun and magic with Terry the Magician!

Terry had them all running around, playing loads of games and getting into the spirit of Nicholas' birthday party...

They then all had loads of E numbers, sugar, crisps, biscuits, chocolate and any other "party food" I could come up with before singing "Happy Birthday" to the special boy..

The best bit of the party then followed - the 45 minute magic show, which had all the kids in hysterics and kept them mesmorised for the entire time. He was brilliant and I can highly recommend him!!!

When it was all over, the girls all left with huge pink fairy wings and the boys went home with sharp swords and shields - fabby for stabbing a sibling with apparently...

HUGE thanks to Mum for helping me decorate, set up the hall and being on cake duty and to Tara, Michelle, Helen and Jo for assisting with the food and whatever else they could!

Nicholas told me at bedtime that he'd had a brilliant day. That's what it's all about and makes it all worthwhile...

Scrapbook layout yum!

2011-01-06T14:08:00.002Z

I actually finished a layout!

I haven't scrapp'ed much since before Chrimbo, but last night's Total Papercraft's kit I just had to finish, so whilst Cassie was having her nap today, I got on and finished it. I'm so pleased with it too...

It's CHRISTMASSSSSSS!!!!

2010-12-28T21:46:00.011Z

So it finally arrived...

A 3 kids were hyper as Lee and I were woken to the sounds of "He's been"!!!! at 7am.

Stockings over and done with it was time to venture downstairs to see what Santa had left each of them (Alex got his microscope, Nicholas his Razor sparks scooter and Cassandra a set of bunkbed with two dolls).

We then all went into the Den to the presse's we'd bought the kids and Christmas just wouldn't be Christmas for a little girl without Peppa Pig...

The boys being Wii mad at the moment, also loved their Need for Speed Hot Pursuit game.

Then mum arrived and it was more presents time!

Alex loved his night visioin googles the best!

Cassie, although in love with her new buggy and Tiny Tears doll, was looking pretty hot in her new sun glasses...

and Nicholas just had to make sure he hadn't missed any presents..

The boys then went outside to see if they could get to grips with their new skateboards Mum had bought them...

Lots of time to play all afternoon, but I was kind of glad when bedtime came around!

---oooo---

Boxing Day followed with a lovely day spent at John & Barbara's with the rest of the family and yet MORE presents!!

Alex, Nicholas, Cassandra, Hannah & Robert all enjoyed dishing them out (some to the right person, some not)...

but I think they all enjoyed opening them more (I know I did)!!

All over until next year....

Meeting the main man...

2010-12-28T21:38:00.004Z

On Christmas eve this year, Lee and I took the children to see Father Christmas down at Polehill Garden Centre, Kent. Quite a way to go just to meet the man himself, but it was worth it...

After walking through a "winter wonderland" they got to sit in with him for a good chat about what they had asked him for and he also told them that they could only get up on Christmas day when it was light - 7.45am! yeah right...

Alex thought he was amazing...

Nicholas truly believed that he was the man himself...

And Cassie wasn't tooo sure, but accepted her present anyway!

It was a good morning out...

Bit of a do...

2010-12-21T13:24:00.006Z

Last night was our "work" Christmas do - Lee and I went to a Robbie Williams Tribute dinner/dance at the Cliffs Pavilion in Westcliff.

Despite the snow, we were assured all systems were go, so there I was last night at 7.15pm in the snow parading around in 3½" heels!

We made it in good time, and had a great evening - can't say much for the guy doing the tribute act, but after a few drinks, anyone would sound good I guess!

We had a good result though, as the guy doing to the tribute act wasn't the right guy - as he was stuck up in Leicester due to the snow, so further to my complaint, Lee and I are attending Tina Turner Tribute at the end of January!

Hiiiii -Ya!

2010-12-17T17:14:00.003Z

So proud of our little man - he's been taking karate lessons since September and today got his orange belt!!

A perfect end to the school term :)

It's a baby!

2010-12-14T20:07:00.003Z

Despite being postponed for a week due to the snow, Blenheim's lower school put on their Christmas production yesterday and today (and will be tomorrow night) - adeptly named "It's a baby"!

Alex was part of the choir but was also chosen as 1 of only 10 children to hold a Christingle during one of the numerous songs all the children had to learn.

Nicholas - well, he was a camel and his dance was just amazing and most amusing!

I was also so pleased that this year's show was based on the true story of Christmas...

I'm so proud of my two boys :)

Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow...

2010-12-04T20:55:00.006Z

Despite Blenheim being the ONLY school that was open this week - and rightly so I hasten to add, we all had fun walking to and from school every day - snowballs and that. Pushing a buggy in 10" of snow was not my idea of fun however, and I ended up trading one child for two with a good friend of mine, some mornings and afternoons to get round the prob...

Today, however was fun time, so Lee and I took all 3 kids over to Blenheim park with the sledge...

This was Cassandra's first time in snow and she wasn't too sure to start with but did end up running around with the boys after a bit...

Lee joined in on the act and got a good arm workout pulling both boys in the sledge around the park!

After a while everyone got a bit cold, so we headed off home. Think Cassie enjoyed the ride home the best..

It's official...

2010-11-08T20:50:00.003Z

Blenheim sent home all the children's official school photos the other week...

Not quite sure what Nicholas was looking at..

And Alexander was pulling a very silly smile...

You got to love 'em!!

All Hallow's Eve...

2010-11-03T14:27:00.010Z

Halloween came round all too quick and this year new costumes were the order of the day...

Nicholas was a Skeleton Pirate, Cass was origonally a witch, but then opted for the pumpkin, Alexander still loved his slightly too short Spider outfit.

As for me, this year, I became the Bride of Darkness!!!

I got together during half term and took the boys to Partyman with Michelle and her two and they had a great Halloween party, Nichoals got to go up on stage with Jimbo and I even won best dressed "Mummy"!

On Saturday 30th October, my good friend Tina had a party so we all trouped over the road for fun and games...

Then actually came 31st October and the boys and Lee had fun carving their pumpkins....

A session "Trick or Treating" was the final event...

I LOVE Halloween and I have loads of great photos to scrap now too!!

Autumn is officially here....

2010-10-19T20:58:00.007+01:00

The second layout for Total Papercrafts this month is a deep orange colour, and not having any appropriate photos, we took the kids over to Thorndon Country park woods last weekend to see if we could get any good piccy's of them...

Lee didn't disappoint - armed with his new birthday toy, he got some great shots...

Roll on Wednesday - just got to pick "the one" to use now....

Our brave little man...

2010-10-08T13:48:00.006+01:00

At the beginning of October, Alexander got his appointment through to go and have surgery on his ears.

He'd been having quite a lot of ear ache's and that for quite a while so after numerous appointments he finally got to have grommets put into both his ears.

He was SO brave, when the nurse came to put some cold cream stuff on his hard to numb it, and when he was being wheeled down to theatre, he was saying how much of an adventure it was.

Even when he was hooked up to all the machines that monitor him he was okay. It was me that had the wobbles..

I spent an anxious 45 mins in the cafe and bombed down to post-op when they called me. Alex was a little groggy and tearful, but slept for a bit and recovered quickly.

His hearing has def. improved and he's a changed person. It's like I've got my scrummy little boy back again - all cos of a wee bit of plastic in his ears!

If you go down to the woods today...

2010-10-06T14:37:00.009+01:00

Well, we didn't see any bears, or any other creatures really, bar a squirrel or two, but the long weekend we spent playing in the woods at the Forest of Dean in Gloucestershire a few weeks ago was just fabby!

It has to have been one of our best "holidays" yet, all the kids loved walking through the woods, digging in the dirt, looking for crawlies, and generally running around in the leaves.

Alex and Nicholas enjoyed a couple of sessions with one of the rangers, learning about fungi and how to survive in the woods and Cassie simply toddled around!

Teamwork was the order of the day on Sunday when we found a good area and built a rather large den....

Can highly recommend it!!

Time to Learn...!?!

2010-09-13T21:01:00.005+01:00

This year is just flying by and before I knew it, it was time to iron all the dam labels in the kids uniforms and send them off to school again.

Alex was going up into Year 2 - Mrs Whiley being his new teacher and after a few moments of apprehension, he was pleased to be back with his friends...

Nicholas is now my big boy and is now full time in Reception with Alex's old teacher Miss Stephens. He's already making new friends and is loving school.

That just leaves the days for my baby girl and I to go to swim school, Jo Jingles, see friends, and I also really need to find a play group to attend....