tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32611599454336621742024-03-05T23:23:23.428-08:00TwinsMumPlusOneA blog sharing experience on walking and days out with children. Ideas of good places to go walking with kids as well as reviews of family attractions.scoutstrialbloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00734426925146437568noreply@blogger.comBlogger39125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3261159945433662174.post-91375651329988936512014-04-21T13:16:00.001-07:002014-04-21T13:16:59.704-07:00Review of the Davy Crochett Ranch - Disneyland ParisWe spent 4 days (5 nights) at the Davy Crochett Ranch in Disneyland Paris. We went in February with the colder weather, rain and darker nights.<br />
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You need your own car if you are staying here but it is an easy 10 - 15 minute drive (maximum) to the parks. When you stay at the Davy Crochett Ranch you get a pass to the Disneyland Paris car park. If you need fuel, there is a petrol station as you leave the park to top up.<br />
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<b><u>Accommodation</u></b></h3>
The Ranches are really static caravans custom made to look like a wooden ranch. The theme continues inside with wooden floors and walls and forest theme curtains, seat covers etc. The ranches can sleep up to 6 which is ideal for the larger family.<br />
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We stayed in a premium ranch which had two bedrooms, one with 3 beds for the children and an adjacent shower room and toilet and a double bedroom at the other end of the cabin with an ensuite shower/toilet. The children's room is able to take 4 beds but there wouldn't be much room to move - having said that you don't go to Disney to sit in your room do you?! The standard cabins only have one bedroom and shower room with a sofa bed in the living area.<br />
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In the premium cabins there is a hob (but no oven) and a dishwasher, a kettle and a coffee maker. There is also a fridge and an outdoor barbecue which we didn't use at it was February! Would be lovely in the summer.<br />
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There is a safe but ours was locked when we got there and we didn't get around to sorting it out.<br />
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Sheets and towels were provided as were some small mickey mouse toiletries - a nice touch I thought!<br />
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Given it was February, I was concerned if we would be warm enough - no worries there. It was toastie warm - thankfully! It was also clean although I did notice dust under the beds when I was checking for escaped socks before we left. This doesn't bother me but may be an issue for others.<br />
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As we had driven we were able to take a few grocery items; small packs of cereal, tea bags, washing up liquid, a couple of tins of tuna, some mayo, fruit and biscuits. I also took some clingfilm and a tea towel. This saved us wasting time on shopping as well as saving money on lunches and snacks.<br />
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<b><u>Meals</u></b></h3>
We had the free half board option and so had vouchers to get breakfast and a main meal. There is a restaurant on site but it doesn't serve breakfast. This is provided from small wooden huts near each cluster of ranches. You get the choice of cereal or a croissant per person (we already had cereal so took advantage of the croissants as in France....!), butter, jam and nutella, milk, orange juice in tins, apple puree, tea and coffee and a small baguette per person. <br />
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We kept the baguettes to make up for lunch (tuna for the adults, nutella for the children) and took the cans of orange juice as well. All allowed through the bag search into the parks so don't worry.<br />
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There were a selection of places to eat with the vouchers. We ate at Annette's diner on one occasion and at the restaurant at the ranch on the other evenings. Pre-booking wasn't necessary when we stayed but is generally recommended by the resort and would probably be important in the busier season (you can do this up to 3 months in advance).<br />
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The Davy Crochett ranch tavern was a self-serve hot and cold buffet and we found that there was a good selection of food with choices to suit everyone in our family (including chicken nuggets and chips). There was also a variety of desserts and fresh fruit as well as a salad bar. It will be slightly different to food at home as you are in France but we were happy with the choice provided. You were also able to choose a drink to have with your meal with the half board vouchers.<br />
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<b><u>Other facilities</u></b></h3>
There is an indoor pool next to the restaurant which looked nice. It is open until 10pm but we didn't use it as we'd been so busy in the day. Children must be accompanied. The 'complex' also includes a small shop selling necessities (pricey I believe but this is no different to any on site shop) and Disney merchandise and a small tavern.<br />
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This area was a bit of a trek from the furthest ranches if you are tired after a long park day but there is a car park if you feel you need to drive!<br />
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There is a small petting barn with a few farm animals for the younger children - again we didn't visit this as we were out all day. I think they also do pony rides.<br />
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There are also teepees dotted around the site for children to play in in line with the wild west theme.<br />
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<b><u>Disney characters</u></b></h3>
I'm not sure if there is a set time for Disney characters to visit the restaurant or if it is advertised anywhere. We bumped into the lesser known Disney Robin Hood (a fox) as we left the restaurant which the children enjoyed but that was completely by chance and we didn't see any others on other evenings but we were outside of peak season when Character visits are reduced I believe. If it is important to you then it would be worth checking it out in advance.<br />
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I haven't stayed in any other Disney accommodation and reviews suggest that this is less Disney than the others but to be honest after a day at the parks we were ready to rest our senses for a little while. For us living accommodation as well as bedrooms was a great asset, the facility to have breakfast without queuing and the ability to make packed lunches was ideal. As mentioned above the option of a barbecue would also be a great end to the day.<br />
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When we visited in February the parks were only open 10am - 7pm so we headed over as soon as they opened and spent the days there. If we had visited when the park was opened until later we may have taken advantage of the pool and the farm area more. However, we came for the Disney experience not pools and farm parks so I wasn't too concerned!<br />
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I'm happy to answer any other questions you might have about the Davy Crochett Ranches if you want to know more - submit a comment in the box and I'll reply as soon as I can.scoutstrialbloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00734426925146437568noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3261159945433662174.post-54878814258436375042014-04-12T12:17:00.003-07:002014-04-12T12:26:15.130-07:00Top tips for visiting Disneyland ParisThis year Santa bought us a 4 night stay at the Davy Crochett lodge within the Disneyland Paris resort. Thank you Santa!!<br />
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Our trip was in February, when the prices are much lower and a free half board meal package was included. It was very good value compared to peak season prices but did mean going during term time.<br />
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The benefits of travelling out of season was the lack of queues and more affordable prices, the down side was that not all the rides were operating when we were there. The opening hours were also shorter in February- (10 am - 7pm) but to be honest as we didn't have to queue much and the age of the children we were happy to go back for dinner at that time. <br />
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The <a href="http://www.disneylandparis.co.uk/practical-information/before-your-visit/parks-hours.html" target="_blank">Disney website</a> has brochures so that you can see what is / isn't running when you are planning to visit. Probably worth checking first to avoid disappointment.<br />
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11 Top Tips for visiting Disneyland Paris<br />
<ul>
<li>They say no food but you can take a small picnic into the parks (we took baguettes, crisps, fruit and drinks for 5 people in a ruck sack with no problems) - apparently the no food rules are to stop the french visitors taking large family picnic baskets into the park;</li>
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<li>There is a McDonalds in the Disney village, next to the parks - go straight down the main thoroughfare and turn right. The prices seemed equivalent to the usual McDonalds prices compared to the very expensive prices in the themed restaurants. The Disney village sounds exciting but is really just a stretch of shops and eateries (unless I missed something!);</li>
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<li>It is worth buying Disney clothing / dressing up outfits before you go or taking outfits you already have if the children are going to want to dress up. Mickey ears were on sale for 20 euros when we went or spend less than £1.50 on amazon. Admittedly the quality won't be as good - but we don't wear Mickey ears that often at home so felt it was worth comprising quality for cost in this instance. Same for autograph books if your child wants to queue for character signatures.</li>
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<ul>
<li>Use the fast passes (they are only available on some of the more popular rides) - you can only use on one ride at a time but it does mean that you can go and do other things and come back at a set time to get on popular rides with a much shorter queue;</li>
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<li>The Stunt show in the Walt Disney Studios park is great - but if you are visiting for more than one day go on the more popular rides when everyone else has gone to watch it! (Disclaimer - The short video at the end of the stunt show was taken by my 9 year old son so is somewhat shaky - also don't watch if you don't want to see the end!!).</li>
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<ul>
<li>If you are planning to eat in the disney themed restaurants then you will need to book ahead to guarantee a table during peak season. If you are staying in Disney accommodation you can do this at reception - otherwise there are places at the entrances to the parks where you can book. Alternatively, you can book by telephone up to 3 months before your visit. The number to ring is 00 33 1 60 30 40 50.</li>
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<ul>
<li>You can't book for Annette's Diner (50s style diner with some (not all) waiters on roller skates) at the entrance to the parks but we went when the parade was on and it was very quiet but filled up as soon as the parade finished.</li>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Frozen float in the parade</td></tr>
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<ul>
<li>Make sure your child waves at the characters in the parade as they will often wave back which brought a huge smile to my 5 year old's face.</li>
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<li>To get the best view of the show at the end you need to stand in front of the castle - your view is less good from the side (so get there early);</li>
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<li> The Disney parks are not about white knuckle rides - it is the attention to detail that makes the rides so good. There are some bigger rides but most are for a wider audience. 140cm was the tallest height restriction but there are plenty of rides for those smaller visitors.</li>
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<li>A lot of the rides and attractions are under cover as are the queuing areas but if the weather is likely to be changeable it is still worth taking a waterproof as there is plenty of park to walk around!</li>
</ul>
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All in all we had a fantastic time and found that Disneyland Paris was a great introduction to the wonders of Disney without having to travel to the USA.<br />
<br />scoutstrialbloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00734426925146437568noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3261159945433662174.post-78728329510590105232014-04-07T14:27:00.002-07:002014-04-08T00:15:59.220-07:00Walking with kids - Moors Valley Country Park, Ringwood, DorsetMoors Valley Country Park, Ringwood is a short drive from the New Forest and well worth the journey from Hampshire into Dorset if you have children.<br />
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Although there are walks available through the forest (20 miles of way marked trails apparently), if you are accompanied by children that really isn't an option as the woodland play trail is a must! Technically you wouldn't call this a walk as an adult you will spend time strolling / stopping as you progress around the forest. Children, however, will not stop moving!<br />
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This really is absolutely fantastic!! As you progress through the forest you happen on different wooden activity spaces hidden among the trees, each based on a different theme. So for example, there is a nests area with large wooden nests joined together with wooden walkways, a spider area with rope and wooden webs, a wild west space with huge wooden teepees, a termite zone and a huge hollow wooden snake to name a few.<br />
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I can't do this justice with words so hope the photos help illustrate what is on offer. (Click on the photos to open a larger photo gallery).<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Spiders</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Spiders</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Snakes</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nests</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Teepees and Tunnels</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Webs</td></tr>
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Access to the forest is free but you do pay for parking. But with a day rate of around £8.50 this is a full day out guaranteed to bring a smile to your children's faces without breaking the bank. Public transport is also an option. There are toilets at the entrance and a shop with the usual tourist info leaflets and toys as well as a couple of refreshment outlets. (Take a picnic to keep it economical). Two more traditional (but well thought out) play areas are at the entrance geared towards different age groups.<br />
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My youngest was 4 when we went here and was able to participate with help, but children 5 years + should be able to use this independently.<br />
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There is also a high ropes facility at the entrance which was very busy, cycle hire and a small steam train all charged at an additional fee. To be honest the forest activity trail is so good that there really is no need to spend extra.<br />
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Click <a href="http://www.moors-valley.co.uk/planning-your-visit/" target="_blank">here</a> for the link to the Forestry Commission website for more information.scoutstrialbloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00734426925146437568noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3261159945433662174.post-60613170154023105452011-09-02T15:17:00.001-07:002011-09-03T14:52:36.831-07:00Twins - should I put them in seperate school classes?September is here and my twins are starting Junior school. It is a separate school from their previous infant school and I will no doubt wave them off with more nerves than they have.<br />
<br />
Their school career has been rather more complicated than I would have liked for a number of reasons including the fact that there is suspicion that my son may be dyslexic. However, rewind the clock by a few years and the key question in my mind was 'should they be in the same class or separated?'.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjphr6bpXfSZXHItG8YoUZCEeetbQP3-f_k5nVwRMFlOkntV5Hk-HbBO1TwQAcbVwWigCDxTPZaOOObXEG8g1KJsu8iOpYRJ1IvHH57EmK1YrKu_vJRc28X51DdpRUt6NouRF4tw79ywtJQ/s1600/k+%2526n+start+school.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjphr6bpXfSZXHItG8YoUZCEeetbQP3-f_k5nVwRMFlOkntV5Hk-HbBO1TwQAcbVwWigCDxTPZaOOObXEG8g1KJsu8iOpYRJ1IvHH57EmK1YrKu_vJRc28X51DdpRUt6NouRF4tw79ywtJQ/s400/k+%2526n+start+school.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">First day at school - age 3 yrs</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
As with all twin conundrums there is no straight forward answer to this as I know that some of my friends have had no choice because of the school is small and only has one class. Again, parental preference varies with some of my friends separating their twins at the start whilst others have left them together until secondary school. The majority it seems do prefer to separate them though.<br />
<br />
My twins started off in the same part-time nursery class as it wasn't practical to have one attend for the morning session and one for the afternoon session (which started half an hour later). I also felt that by keeping them together it would reduce any anxiety of starting school (in hindsight I think this was more about easing my anxiety than theirs!). The morning nursery class all then moved up together to become a reception class together. It didn't seem fair to move one out of the class away from their friends so they stayed together.<br />
<br />
Unfortunately, their new teacher seem to prefer lively little boys and thought my son could do no wrong (great for him!) but tended to overlook quiet little girls who weren't a management problem (not so great for his sister).<br />
<br />
Sadly, this situation really knocked my daughter's confidence in her ability at school as she saw her brother start to read books with words first (ironic now given his reading problems - he memorised the words and fooled the teacher!).<br />
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He also received the 'Star of the Week' certificate weeks before his sister, despite the fact that she would be behaving beautifully whereas he has a problem with sitting still and concentrating! From these actions my young daughter concluded that she wasn't clever and couldn't work out what she needed to do to get the good behaviour award.<br />
<br />
I was able to address this second issue with the teacher at the parents afternoon and her initial response was that the children have to learn to accept these things. I pointed out that this was a rather harsh lesson for a 4 year old and it was slightly different when it was your brother rather than a classmate.<br />
<br />
A week later, a very excited little girl came home with the much longed for 'Star of the Week' certificate!<br />
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Whilst I believe that teachers are trained to treat each child as an individual, I do believe that there is a need to recognise the special relationship that twins will have within that approach and be sensitive to this. <br />
<br />
My twins are now in separate classes and this means that they can learn, play, develop and make mistakes without making (or having made) direct comparisons with their twin. They are both much happier with this arrangement.<br />
<br />
My twins are very different (she is a skippy, quiet, artistic girlie - he is a roaring, noisy boy) so they have always made their own friends and played separately. However, for some parents it is also important to give their twins the space to make separate friends.<br />
<br />
Other parents of twins are, however, happy to keep their children in the same class and have found that by celebrating each other's differences they have not experienced problems like we have.<br />
<br />
Whatever you decide to do, I would encourage you to share any concerns with the school and the teacher(s) when you have them. Do not assume that the teacher will understand the needs/relationship of twins and do not be afraid to make yourself heard. <br />
<br />
And don't forget to pack your tissues when you wave them off at the school gate!!!scoutstrialbloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00734426925146437568noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3261159945433662174.post-33897097618724518802011-09-02T15:05:00.000-07:002011-09-02T15:15:12.506-07:00Visit Norwich with childrenWe have just returned from a week camping in Norfolk and are packing the tent away for the season.<br />
<br />
Whilst there we made a couple of trips into Norwich which is a small and child friendly city to visit.<br />
<br />
My tips for a cheap, child friendly day when on a budget........<br />
<br />
1. Avoid city centre car parks and keeping an eye on the time - use the Park and Ride - £4 for return tickets for 2 adults and children under 16 years.<br />
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2. Use the toilets at Norwich bus station if needed! <br />
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3. Pack a picnic but perhaps stop off at the bakers for a sweet treat (there is a Sayers around the corner from the bus station).<br />
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4. Visit the <a href="http://www.plantationgarden.co.uk/">Plantation gardens</a> (3 acres of secret walled gardens lovingly cared for by volunteers) for your picnic lunch. £2 donation per adult, children under 16 free. You also pass a playground in the council park on the way.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmy7470mSbWhUUWb7z4MxZ77oTeS1vQYmmtDIjsbppb3_PFFMwN9iH3Dv-pjlyz8c4oSHaDDWjlRBxMKGMOWoSboV9o5Z3L7R8Ts0F9yRxV5zIXeyZJGNcOS4eMOB6zUwz8IjK7KwwJsfN/s1600/4589573746_4a1807ec87_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmy7470mSbWhUUWb7z4MxZ77oTeS1vQYmmtDIjsbppb3_PFFMwN9iH3Dv-pjlyz8c4oSHaDDWjlRBxMKGMOWoSboV9o5Z3L7R8Ts0F9yRxV5zIXeyZJGNcOS4eMOB6zUwz8IjK7KwwJsfN/s320/4589573746_4a1807ec87_z.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo Courtesy of Ell Brown, Flickr</td></tr>
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5. Wander through the lanes and the market stalls - grab a drink or an ice cream when spirits lag.<br />
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6. Visit <a href="http://www.cathedral.org.uk/">Norwich Cathedral </a>- free, although you are encouraged to make a donation. However, if you are there with young children your visit is likely to be brief - so it is up to you.<br />
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7. Use the toilets at the Cathedral before moving on.<br />
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8. Spot the boot cleaners built into the walls of the old buildings and explain to the children how the roads used to be.<br />
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9. Visit <a href="http://www.museums.norfolk.gov.uk/Visit_Us/Norwich_Castle/index.htm">Norwich castle</a> an hour before closing time - it is £1 per person for anyone over 4 years old. The castle is deceptive as it is a lot bigger inside than it looks. However, an hour is long enough to get a flavour of the building and its history with young children and there are loads of interactive activities in the keep to engage them. This was our favourite bargain activity of the day!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHWQ3sPUPWJ-3rHsRo9KbQyeviRvJHDTutEayaf5PkqDeM4x1dM5VjOTpnkv05nCigO737M4hV7L6y_mVRugvkqHrIm2zWYbVwQKO3nCJqJOgENX2skl2niwSU47ANpBtzn2JvTpyJfmE8/s1600/312801811_9161b10d56_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHWQ3sPUPWJ-3rHsRo9KbQyeviRvJHDTutEayaf5PkqDeM4x1dM5VjOTpnkv05nCigO737M4hV7L6y_mVRugvkqHrIm2zWYbVwQKO3nCJqJOgENX2skl2niwSU47ANpBtzn2JvTpyJfmE8/s320/312801811_9161b10d56_z.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Norwich Castle (Photo courtesy of Ben Clinch, Flickr)</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnNG5jUe5AVjavrsoWBVWqltSMoCD7usxFeT4X-b6u2xiqj7M2wMDkAKqZNCObrTQln55oEOt5mUhGuDJPS12TbIjpvVPxeug5HsjDByuzwQxmod2Pc_CgX4NXz0h0iD7CS3dFVxs54cep/s1600/3823820567_3ffe1e9a67_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnNG5jUe5AVjavrsoWBVWqltSMoCD7usxFeT4X-b6u2xiqj7M2wMDkAKqZNCObrTQln55oEOt5mUhGuDJPS12TbIjpvVPxeug5HsjDByuzwQxmod2Pc_CgX4NXz0h0iD7CS3dFVxs54cep/s400/3823820567_3ffe1e9a67_z.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Example of a cell from the time that the castle was used as a prison. 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10. Back to the bus station (use toilets if needed!) - hassle free exit to your car.scoutstrialbloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00734426925146437568noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3261159945433662174.post-54982079014678439822011-08-24T14:54:00.000-07:002011-08-24T14:54:46.142-07:00Free entry to Britain's heritage in SeptemberWell, it has been several months since I last posted a blog. <br />
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The school holidays and work have taken much of my time and energy over the past 6 weeks which I'm sure many people will relate to.<br />
<br />
I was intending to try and resurrect my blog in September, however, I have come across some information on <a href="http://www.heritagedays.net/">FREE</a> entry into a number of heritage sites across the UK that I wanted to share and thought no time like the present!!<br />
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This initiative has been organised by the key national heritage trusts and charities from across the UK as part of a European programme to celebrate our heritage and culture and the events have different names / websites for England, Wales, Scotland, N Ireland/Irish Republic and London. <br />
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The weblink below takes you to a general site where you can select the country you wish to focus on.<br />
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<a href="http://www.heritagedays.net/">http://www.heritagedays.net/</a><br />
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Various heritage sites have chosen to open their doors to the public free of charge during September (the dates vary with some starting on 2 September) and there really does seem to be a wide range including churches, galleries, country houses, castles and civic building such as courts, police and fire stations.<br />
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Obviously, you may want to be selective if you have young children as there are places I wouldn't contemplate visiting with my troop but there is plenty to choose from.<br />
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Let me know if you visit anything.scoutstrialbloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00734426925146437568noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3261159945433662174.post-2841939936748647562011-06-23T13:31:00.000-07:002011-06-23T13:31:47.386-07:00New baby - 10 things I wouldn't buyMy sister in law is expecting her first baby in November and like everyone wants to be be ready for the new arrival but still wants to be careful with her money.<br />
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As we were expecting twins and had double the expense we really thought about what we would use so that the items we did buy were of use.<br />
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I think it's hard to know what you need / don't need with your first born so I thought I'd try and come up with some ideas of things that I really didn't need or use......<br />
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1. Baby bath - we bought a <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/Summer-Infant-Comfy-Bath-Sponge/dp/B000H953Y2/ref=sr_1_1?s=baby&ie=UTF8&qid=1308858653&sr=1-1">baby sponge</a> instead - much easy to use.<br />
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2. A changing table - we used a <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/changer-white-fawn-criss-cross/dp/B001W95QC0/ref=sr_1_4?s=baby&ie=UTF8&qid=1308859004&sr=1-4">cot top changing mat</a> or changing mats on the floor - no where for baby to fall! <br />
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3. We bought <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/Salisbury-cot-white-teething-rail/dp/B004ZYRA2S/ref=sr_1_2?s=baby&ie=UTF8&qid=1308859217&sr=1-2">cot beds</a> instead of a cot - these last until they are around 5 or 6 as you can take the cot bars off and turn the cot into a small bed when the child is ready.<br />
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4. Cot bumpers - they look very pretty but I think the advice is not to have them on the cot when the baby is moving in case they suffocate so I've never really understood the point of them!!<br />
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5. Top sheets and blankets - I'm a big fan of <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/Slumbersac-Sleeping-months-Spotty-travel/dp/B0038KBL2A/ref=sr_1_3?s=baby&ie=UTF8&qid=1308859459&sr=1-3">baby sleeping bags</a> (i.e. <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/Grobag-Peek-Baby-Sleeping-Months/dp/B002MB8Y3A/ref=sr_1_1?s=baby&ie=UTF8&qid=1308859459&sr=1-1">grobags</a> although I have found that the cheaper alternatives have been fine too). With these your baby never gets cold, doesn't lose it's blankets or sheets in the night and can't get its legs stuck in the bars when he/she starts to roll.<br />
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6. A moses basket - very sweet but you can live without. I put the twins in one end of the cot bed when they were born and I borrowed a moses basket from a friend for my youngest. I was so glad I didn't buy a moses basket for her as at 9lb 7 at birth she wasn't in it for long.<br />
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7. Designer baby shoes - they are not walking - they don't need them!! And indeed, exploring their feet as babies and feeling the floor when starting to walk is an important part of their development. Save your money for decent shoes when they actually need them!<br />
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8. New baby clothes - newborn vests, babygros and outfits go for pennies on ebay and many are in excellent condition as small babies a) grow quickly and don't wear things for long, b) generally don't get that messy and c) have often received more clothes than they can wear when they are born. Check out your local <a href="http://www.nctpregnancyandbabycare.com/branches/events/nearly-new-sales">NCT Nearly New sale</a> as well as they often have loads of good quality babies outfits for low prices. You don't have to be a member of NCT to go to these sales but if you are looking for small babies outfits it is helpful if you know the babies gender!<br />
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9. Duffel coats for winter babies - they can't move in the thick fabric!! I do however, love snow suits in the colder weather. Look for ones with zips all the way day for easy access and then you can pop your little one in quickly and even in a sleepsuit in a matter of seconds and they are ready to face the weather!<br />
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10. A changing bag - join <a href="http://www.boots.com/en/Mother-Baby/Parenting-Club/Join-the-Parenting-Club/">Boots parenting club</a> and get one for free! (Check this offer is till on though). OK - so lots of other people may have the same style but I found that it was a good design that met all my needs when out and about so didn't mind.<br />
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If you have any other thoughts of things that are not necessary when preparing for your first baby I'd love to hear your ideas and will pass them on to my sister-in-law who will be very pleased to spend money on the important things. scoutstrialbloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00734426925146437568noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3261159945433662174.post-29860174435226370162011-06-15T14:49:00.000-07:002011-06-23T14:44:30.678-07:00Walks with Children - Newborough Forest, Anglesey, North WalesOnce again, Anglesey in North West Wales provides another fantastic walk to do with children taking in Newborough Forest and Ynys Llanddwyn (Ynys = Island in Welsh).<br />
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This area forms an extensive nature reserve, with forest, ecologically important sand dunes and wide-open beaches and is an absolutely stunning location for a walk, swim or just a picnic.<br />
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Llanddwyn island is almost a part of the mainland but is just separated at high tide. Llanddwyn Island is named after St Dwynwen, the Welsh patron saint of lovers. Legend has it that she was spurned by a prince and retreated heartbroken to the island. There she was granted three wishes, and asked to be given the power to grant the wishes of true lovers.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A distant view of Ynys Llanddwyn</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View of small cove and volcanic rock from Island</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Once on the island you can see the remains of a church which is said to have replaced St Dwynwen's church as well as ancient lighthouses, stone crosses and a (free) museum housed in an old pilot's cottage. There are also spectacular views of Snowdonia and the Lleyn Peninsula which my camera unfortunately doesn't do justice to.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beautiful Hand Carved Gates</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Remains of a Church</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
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There are a host of routes that you can follow if you want to walk in this area. (Click <a href="http://www.visitanglesey.co.uk/en-GB/newborough_forest_walks-126.aspx">here</a> for details of how to request a free guide). You can park near the beach and just have a short walk across the beach to explore the island or there are longer, circular walks available which take you through the forest and along the beach.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHOynQ5sxiAPDrbML9YiexSKYv2OosJxAn7whUnPHEXR02Ni8VcYj_b9RYDgI_1IuK0x8VqCE_d-tp5NDGpmnFUGW9923JKHeaoVn8VF2g1I-lKk3wXBX_Kd_-6_uPU_g1Y7Xe4LiCwUMk/s1600/043.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHOynQ5sxiAPDrbML9YiexSKYv2OosJxAn7whUnPHEXR02Ni8VcYj_b9RYDgI_1IuK0x8VqCE_d-tp5NDGpmnFUGW9923JKHeaoVn8VF2g1I-lKk3wXBX_Kd_-6_uPU_g1Y7Xe4LiCwUMk/s320/043.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shipwrecked boat - 14 rescued</td></tr>
</tbody></table> We did a <a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/wales/northwest/sites/walks/pages/newborough.shtml">longer</a> circular walk, parking in one of the forest car parks, walking to the island, along the beach to the estuary and then back onto a path in the forest.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Following the path markers through the forest</td></tr>
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<a href="http://www.visitanglesey.co.uk/en-GB/newborough_forest_walks-126.aspx">Books</a> of walks in the area will contain routes or you can find the location at <b>OS grid reference</b> SH 396 638 (Explorer map 263) and plan your own.<br />
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Apparently Newborough Warren is a favourite spot for birdwatching - expect to see divers, grebes, sea ducks, waders and purple sandpipers.<br />
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Dogs are however, not allowed on the beach during the summer months.scoutstrialbloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00734426925146437568noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3261159945433662174.post-72401918414560958422011-06-13T14:26:00.000-07:002011-06-13T14:26:47.279-07:00MUMentum - Time to Take ControlWell....I feel just a bit of a fraud joining this link.<br />
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My youngest is 3 and I have lost weight since having her but subsequently put on more than I lost in the past 12 months - so I can hardly blame pregnancy.<br />
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However, coincidentally, before seeing this blog hop I had already decided that today was going to be the day I stopped making excuses and took myself in hand.<br />
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I have been going to Slimming World on and off for 2 years now and did very well in the first 12 months and then something went wrong. Whilst I was finding juggling a full time job and 3 young children tiring and my son was having problems with his reading which was an added stress, I really can't blame anyone else, or any particular event as ultimately it was down to me.<br />
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However, I think that I had done well, reached a plateau with my weight loss and also stopped staying at the Slimming World meetings which coupled with being tired and worried didn't help me move forward.<br />
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So.....I put on all the weight I lost ( 2 1/2 stone) and more beside and have been in a bit of a yo yo dieting cycle since.<br />
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I have rejoined Slimming World on a least 4 or 5 occasions to then drop out again after a few weeks due to either real or contrived reasons. I seem to have spent a fortune on attending the meetings that I am not currently making full use of and I have decided that ENOUGH IS ENOUGH!!!!<br />
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It is time for me to try and take control and responsibility for my own behaviour and rather than spend money I don't really have on support I am not using I am going to see whether being a part of this virtual group will help me on my journey.<br />
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So if you don't mind I'd like to post each week on my progress, get ideas from others and perhaps as time goes by feel happy enough to post pictures of me on my blog rather than just pictures of my family.<br />
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My ultimate goal would be to have a professional family portrait taken of us all but I have a long way to go until I would be happy to do that - so one step at a time I think.<br />
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I weighed myself this morning so know my starting point and whilst I'd rather not share my weight at this time, I can say that I need to lose at least 4 stone (4 1/2 stone would take me to my weight before children).<br />
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My plan is to follow the Slimming World plan as I know it well and can comfortably stay on plan to prepare our family meals without having to weigh and measure but I will also try and build in some additional exercise. Whilst we try and stay active with the children at the weekends, I don't always do much in the week. I've tried to go to organised classes in the past but you have to book a lot here in advance and I'd prefer to do what I feel like rather than what I am booked into as well as save the money - so tonight to start I have been for a brisk walk.<br />
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I am also going to avoid alcohol as I find that not only does this add additional calories but I tend to snack more and eat junk food that ordinarily wouldn't bother me.<br />
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So - here goes - can I regain control? I hope so xxx<br />
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<script src="http://www.linkytools.com/basic_linky_include.aspx?id=93110" type="text/javascript" ></script>scoutstrialbloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00734426925146437568noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3261159945433662174.post-90740628062269321332011-06-12T13:15:00.000-07:002011-06-12T13:15:58.738-07:00The British Weather stops play - hey ho!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgyoKh5hqeXcnZ0g8__R3c5XJy8NiTMcTlQoVYOOuRPICrhVgCGWjoQBjdhHsi1lfEXszsH2JA4h4h3I9v6RafUpDeZ9P1ygNRRpt6C8wiqBTwWkTFjB5HVXIshhD2-A4hRSb_UZEAiqJU/s1600/20749146_c34f2c31ff_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgyoKh5hqeXcnZ0g8__R3c5XJy8NiTMcTlQoVYOOuRPICrhVgCGWjoQBjdhHsi1lfEXszsH2JA4h4h3I9v6RafUpDeZ9P1ygNRRpt6C8wiqBTwWkTFjB5HVXIshhD2-A4hRSb_UZEAiqJU/s320/20749146_c34f2c31ff_z.jpg" width="295" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo courtesy of Scutter - Flickr</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Last week I posted about Open Farm Sunday - an event once a year where farms open their doors (or should it be gates?) to visitors, all free of charge.<br />
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We had picked a farm nearby that sounded like it would be great for the children with extra activities especially for them and everyone was really looking forward to it.<br />
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Unfortunately, the great British weather stepped in and the day has been a wash out (literally)! As campers, we are quite hardy individuals and have waterproofs, wellies etc but the rain and cold wind that that greeted us this morning even drove us undercover.<br />
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I felt soooo sorry for the participating farms as I'm sure that a lot of work and effort will have gone into preparing for today, planning the activities and making sure any dangerous farm equipment was well away. I know that the farm that we were planning to visit was hoping to raise money for a local charity as well.<br />
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I am hoping that it was not as wet elsewhere across the UK so that hopefully most of the events went to plan but if the rain has crossed most of the country lets hope that it is to the benefit of farms in the drier areas where the recent lack of rain is a threat to crops or to feeding livestock.<br />
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Did anyone make it to one of these events? I'd love to hear if you did x<br />
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(Ironically we went swimming instead!)scoutstrialbloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00734426925146437568noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3261159945433662174.post-82311306252166490812011-06-11T14:44:00.000-07:002011-06-12T12:41:48.714-07:00Children should be seen but not heard!I would love to agree more with the statement that 'Children should be seen and not heard' - but unfortunately my children have not grasped this piece of etiquette yet!<br />
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So imagine my delight at finding this Waterwalkerz activity where you could indeed see your precious little bundles but with the sound turned off - fantastic!!<br />
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This was actually a treat / incentive / bribe in the middle of a 12 mile bike ride - where they get all this energy from is beyond me!!<br />
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The littlest one (who has a seat on the back of daddies bike at the moment) selected a more sedate activity.<br />
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Good fun had by all - but especially mummy - who truely belives that silence is golden!scoutstrialbloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00734426925146437568noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3261159945433662174.post-69574759506089100092011-06-10T14:39:00.000-07:002011-06-10T14:45:03.687-07:00Wookey Hole, SomersetWe were camping in Somerset over half term and were fortunate to have nice weather for most of the week. But we did have one very wet day - so off we trooped to Wookey Hole.<br />
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I wasn't sure quite what to expect as the tourist leaflet was very muddled and probably doesn't sell it as well as it could but I have to say that this was a great choice to stay out of the rain as it really was a full day attraction mostly undercover.<br />
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We went to the caves first - which we enjoyed (although perhaps not as spectacular as some) with clever use of lighting to add to the atmosphere.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghSDdmPUEICCMqIFh74fdQ9CIj445eoFR4FO0D9PAOltqiClvRZenNRYe0WvwRYzJD0leNF3IP6Yb9r_TuQ0Hxm0DvuPzrgXJ6BiU1Qc9wc_EmUNwqQUDVTqlJMmcM1T_NRr07aSranTsU/s1600/2444125372_d9dbf228d9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghSDdmPUEICCMqIFh74fdQ9CIj445eoFR4FO0D9PAOltqiClvRZenNRYe0WvwRYzJD0leNF3IP6Yb9r_TuQ0Hxm0DvuPzrgXJ6BiU1Qc9wc_EmUNwqQUDVTqlJMmcM1T_NRr07aSranTsU/s320/2444125372_d9dbf228d9.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wookey Hole caves - courtesy of 'I Like' (Flickr)</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</tbody></table>On completing the caves tour, you come out into the valley which is really pretty if the weather allows you to enjoy it.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4oJVgWe6-GLMgH40zAjL9q7jRWdhsT-9jyXkdnv6PWmnuk3UEXM5ezr4yT6tcDrd3wpHYtQop46LhPrQY4aJFjf-w_V42AjfU8eL8_QHoYgIVRZYV-DqGk5twNufCxtfjJxUtIxM3rPeA/s1600/100.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4oJVgWe6-GLMgH40zAjL9q7jRWdhsT-9jyXkdnv6PWmnuk3UEXM5ezr4yT6tcDrd3wpHYtQop46LhPrQY4aJFjf-w_V42AjfU8eL8_QHoYgIVRZYV-DqGk5twNufCxtfjJxUtIxM3rPeA/s320/100.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>The path takes you through the dinosaur garden...... including King Kong (?)!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7eXleV60RWrIim0oQYDfLeLWe1uNf8JIlWIBAcde5xhEyeKFLMiOUag1X9qVkZAEe793x_DP2BWLWe-ytXtwMsl9IrrF1GKqCAONPwr_09xaOWLGkBRNG-8xFXHSFuTvN4KeUO7btnc8D/s1600/103.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7eXleV60RWrIim0oQYDfLeLWe1uNf8JIlWIBAcde5xhEyeKFLMiOUag1X9qVkZAEe793x_DP2BWLWe-ytXtwMsl9IrrF1GKqCAONPwr_09xaOWLGkBRNG-8xFXHSFuTvN4KeUO7btnc8D/s320/103.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>You then enter the indoor attractions which include several soft play areas, a mirror maze, old circus exhibits and old 'pier' display full of antique penny machines (this last section could cost quite a bit - but our children are used to being told that there is no more money to spend!).<br />
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The largest soft play area is supposed to be for the over 4's but my quite able 3 year old used it with no problems. There is a smaller area for younger children and a further air cannon area which seemed to fascinate the boys in particular! <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgMiI8a151sMpv-r3GmJXrkHAltLHSrcbRWBSEMd-K_BG0zL5YD1DIx9zm1ec8bsC8bFyUCMTP4MVDLMyXHM4QnqZbFXoUJsk1uS1uzyQPBj5UV5q5BcmRQ8hc7TiLagnGvp5MWzNJFxQO/s1600/113.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgMiI8a151sMpv-r3GmJXrkHAltLHSrcbRWBSEMd-K_BG0zL5YD1DIx9zm1ec8bsC8bFyUCMTP4MVDLMyXHM4QnqZbFXoUJsk1uS1uzyQPBj5UV5q5BcmRQ8hc7TiLagnGvp5MWzNJFxQO/s320/113.JPG" width="320" /> </a></td><td style="text-align: center;"></td><td style="text-align: center;"></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This must be what it is like to have sextuplets!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>There is also a circus show 3 times a day at the weekends and school holidays. We weren't expecting much but it was genuinely really very good. The show was put on by local young people who had trained 3 times a week over a couple of years to master the unicycles, juggling, acrobatics, trapeze etc. They have obviously worked hard and it was a joy to watch them.<br />
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We took a picnic which we ate in the car - but be warned - to enter and exit the main area you are taken through the shop (these people aren't silly are they?!). However, we have perfected the hustle the children through quickly approach and managed to get through unscathed!<br />
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It is also worth picking up a leaflet at the tourist information centre if you think you might visit during your stay in Somerset as ours contained an additional discount voucher which meant that we made a small saving on the family entrance price.<br />
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It is quite an expensive day out if you are a larger family but we arrived just after it opened at 10am and left around 4pm so that to me makes Wookey Hole a great all day wet weather attraction.scoutstrialbloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00734426925146437568noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3261159945433662174.post-50432565975649008082011-06-09T13:16:00.000-07:002011-06-09T13:16:37.196-07:00The cost of twins!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2UbVUpwWNVQn3ueqKknHT_UUK2TKUGSU_shJqHwQ4xab4eKTfjUimgTBVaYVi3Ld07uAGkIGCuMo0CYwKymiBBxrGvWl2y3O9AD4A1bIJ4GCv6ae1cZIRdylEbfNhnJvYph0sNCgWE2cV/s1600/003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2UbVUpwWNVQn3ueqKknHT_UUK2TKUGSU_shJqHwQ4xab4eKTfjUimgTBVaYVi3Ld07uAGkIGCuMo0CYwKymiBBxrGvWl2y3O9AD4A1bIJ4GCv6ae1cZIRdylEbfNhnJvYph0sNCgWE2cV/s320/003.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Apparently a typical family now pays an average of £186,032 to raise a child from birth to the age of 21 - which amounts to £8,859 a year, £738 a month or £24.30 a day - according to the UK's largest friendly society, Liverpool Victoria (2007 report).<br />
<br />
This is quite frightening, especially if you have more children than you had anticipated (and budgeted for) by having multiples.<br />
<br />
Having multiples is quite cost effective for the employer and government as despite the mother having 2 (or more) children, they only need to pay standard maternity pay that you would receive twice if you had 2 children through separate pregnancies and cover 1 period of maternity leave. When I was pregnant with my twins I did try and negotiate double the maternity pay and leave with my employer but this seemed to cause mirth rather than action and I wasn't successful!<br />
<br />
I am also not sure why my second child (born 8 minutes after my first born) is cheaper to keep than his sister. But this would appear to be the case in the eyes of the child benefit office. My oldest daughter benefits from £20.30 per month while her brother apparently costs £13.40.<br />
<br />
With my youngest daughter I could see some rationale to this in the sense that she was able to benefit from equipment, clothes etc handed down from her siblings. With twins (or more) there is not that opportunity and you are faced with buying 2 cots/cot beds, cot bedding, vests and clothes, high chairs, 1st stage car seats, bouncy chairs, child reins, potties etc!<br />
<br />
One further aspect that doesn't immediately spring to mind is the financial strain that is placed on the tooth fairy from a multiples household. I think she/he may move in soon as the journeys have been very frequent recently (see photo for evidence!) and my youngest (age 3) watching all of this activity is wiggling her teeth in desperation to cash in as well!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggAxCBIBhRHRSbKYFZSotMsShYtIof-AaxUBIvUDyEH7HNnQM3DtCRurwLpkr5QDwbHlelCmMeTWrUfThfg7kWkmREgH0ChURpEi9kasWEaTIi_BnAU0Pj8qYcHqTRdMsDxK2kE65a_Thu/s1600/005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggAxCBIBhRHRSbKYFZSotMsShYtIof-AaxUBIvUDyEH7HNnQM3DtCRurwLpkr5QDwbHlelCmMeTWrUfThfg7kWkmREgH0ChURpEi9kasWEaTIi_BnAU0Pj8qYcHqTRdMsDxK2kE65a_Thu/s320/005.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>scoutstrialbloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00734426925146437568noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3261159945433662174.post-4600682354982962522011-06-04T13:44:00.000-07:002011-06-04T13:44:36.001-07:00Free day out on the farm - Open Farm Sunday -June 12 2011On our way down to Somerset last saturday I spotted a sign about an open farm day. Returning today I have looked it up and found about this great initiative where farms across the UK open to the public free of charge on 12 June as a part of Open Farm Sunday.<br />
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The <a href="http://www.farmsunday.org/">website</a> provides a summary of all participating farms and the events that they are hosting. Most are putting on tours and additional activities for children.<br />
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The most local one to us describes it's activities as follows:<br />
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"11am til 4pm Farm Walk See Buffalo,Sheep and Pigs, Sheep Shearing, Sausage Making, Beehive visits, Wildlife and bird spotting Barbeque all day Farm shop open Fun activities and donations in aid of local charity. Free entry and parking"<br />
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Each farm will differ in times and activites but all are FREE!<br />
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As these are all working farms they don't seem to generally allow dogs which is understandable and sensible footwear is also recommended. <br />
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Check out your nearest farm on <a href="http://www.farmsunday.org/"><b>www.farmsunday.org </b></a>and let me know if you are planning on going. It sounds great to me and I think my children would love this.scoutstrialbloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00734426925146437568noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3261159945433662174.post-12413633923808804302011-05-27T14:35:00.000-07:002011-05-27T17:09:51.255-07:00Camping with Kids - How to cope with wet weather!We are off to Somerset tomorrow to camp for a week.<br />
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We are all very excited but as I have seen the weather forecast I am a little bit less excited than I could be. It is hard to get things dry when you are camping and if you and your clothes get damp it can be hard to warm up again. Children and wet muddy wellies are also not a great combination with tents and this can lead to a more stressful trip.<br />
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Some children are easier to entertain in small spaces - my son is not one of them. Also a day can be a very long time when you are camping!<br />
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Whilst it would be great to say that I have a host of free options you can do on rainy days - the reality is that the wet weather does make the day more expensive.<br />
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However, here are some of the things we have done on particularly wet / rainy days.....<br />
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<ul><li>swimming pools often have evening sessions (and lots of rural areas also have a pool within reasonable driving distance); </li>
<li>a meal out - fish and chip shops with tables can be more of an event than other fast food outlets but aren't as expensive or formal as pub meals / restaurants;</li>
<li>museums / local art galleries etc - often free. Some of the national museums are huge with fantastic displays i.e - <a href="http://www.nrm.org.uk/">the national railway museum</a> (York), <a href="http://www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk/wml/things-to-see/">the world museum</a> (Liverpool); <a href="http://www.rafmuseum.org.uk/cosford/">the RAF museum</a> (Shropshire), <a href="http://www.mosi.org.uk/">museum of science and industry</a> (Manchester);</li>
<li>play barns can fill an afternoon - try and avoid meal times unless you want to spend a fortune!</li>
<li>amusement arcades by the seaside with a big bag of 2ps (I don't think they take pennies anymore!);</li>
<li>the cinema if they are not too young - look out for Saturday morning films (often £1 entrance though won't be the latest film!);</li>
<li>small local attractions - we filled a very wet afternoon in a small aquarium in Pembrokeshire run by a charity. Much cheaper then the large aquariums and it was very quirky with a games corner and an insect exhibition.</li>
<li>underground attractions! I.e. caves, mines etc. I am not suggesting you go down open mine shafts - these are proper attractions which can be quite costly for a family but are educational, interesting and dry! Save money by picnicking in the car!</li>
</ul>If you have any other ideas to share I'd love to hear them as I have 3 young children (and a limited budget) to keep entertained.<br />
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But hopefully the rain will stay away (at least in the daytime) until we are back in work and school. It doesn't hurt to be optimistic does it?!<br />
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Have a good bank holiday weekend whatever you are doing xscoutstrialbloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00734426925146437568noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3261159945433662174.post-18285912809151977232011-05-25T13:06:00.000-07:002011-05-25T13:08:44.594-07:00Great Website for frugal fans - Find the Cheapest Petrol in your area!Petrol price make me want to do this.......<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKYFBoUUmbLQbw2Ns1WA4uDq0BHpE07SqHJx9BDAkQA0jaDrMRZC73wTYR3WIgWqTAvpag9uFLrwb8kF0U678vZa4nA4QLJQJ1nGbmaBwMo7Na4Af5SCFfGY0N5HGkqlhh5JnpSPTpRl88/s1600/432053399_44854668af.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKYFBoUUmbLQbw2Ns1WA4uDq0BHpE07SqHJx9BDAkQA0jaDrMRZC73wTYR3WIgWqTAvpag9uFLrwb8kF0U678vZa4nA4QLJQJ1nGbmaBwMo7Na4Af5SCFfGY0N5HGkqlhh5JnpSPTpRl88/s320/432053399_44854668af.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> (Photo courtesy of <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/hectorgarcia/432053399/sizes/m/in/photostream/">Hector Garcia</a>, Flickr)</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<br />
So I was really pleased to find this great website - has anyone come across it before?<br />
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<a href="http://www.petrolprices.com/">http://www.petrolprices.com/</a><br />
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It is free to sign up, you put in your postcode and the type of fuel you use and it will list the cheapest petrol stations within a 5 mile radius to you. It will then email you each week (or more frequently if you wish) with an up to date list.<br />
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The variation between petrol stations is huge with petrol stations within a 5 mile radius to us ranging from 134.9 - 138.9 pence per litre for unleaded and 139.9 - 143.9 pence per litre for diesel. For me this also doesn't include any big supermarkets but I think I have the option of searching near other postcodes.<br />
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I don't know how many litres my car takes to work out the potential savings but I can only assume that over a few months it will start to make a difference.<br />
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I do know that our budget has really felt the increase in petrol prices and with both my husband and I having to drive to work it is an expense that is hard for us to cut by much.<br />
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Take a look - let me know if you think it is any good. I'd love to hear your comments.scoutstrialbloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00734426925146437568noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3261159945433662174.post-12895533039818546492011-05-22T08:49:00.000-07:002011-05-22T14:24:23.443-07:00Walking with kids – Penmon Point, Anglesey, North Wales<span lang="EN-GB"><o:p></o:p></span><span lang="EN-GB">Prince William and his new wife couldn’t have chosen a more picturesque place to start their married life together. When the sun comes out, the island of Anglesey at the far North West of north Wales is absolutely stunning. With views of the mountains of Snowdonia in the distance and the fantastic Anglesey coastline beside you, this walk shows you some of its beauty.</span> <br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">This is a little walk (about 2 miles) which I found in a book called </span></div><a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/1850588406/ref=as_li_tf_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=twinsmumpluso-21&linkCode=as2&camp=1634&creative=6738&creativeASIN=1850588406">All Terrain Pushchair Walks: Anglesey and Lleyn Pennisula (All-Terrain Pushchair Walks)</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.co.uk/e/ir?t=twinsmumpluso-21&l=as2&o=2&a=1850588406" style="border: medium none ! important; margin: 0px ! important;" width="1" /><br />
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<div class="MsoNormal"></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">You park in a small car park by the Priory and Dovecote for which there is a small charge towards the maintenance of the car park and toll road. You can go inside both buildings which the children enjoy.</span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="288" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi58Y2gwNRnuyFc4X_5xctP_8IDIElQdqfzvACXvbN-CDBCxLl6acfH3A12eY_Tx3MnFLFAW0vBZ9YN1bNqQFZeB2q1hBQNhqhqkvntA7jqdMV6SnLijnphw5nLqGVmLkWlIxTDlXcJJSw5/s400/penmon+priory.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Penmon Priory</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><span lang="EN-GB"> The walk takes you across some fields, through a small wooded area and onto the headland in front of a lighthouse. </span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirJn9j7EYuWVpCQZDHZtIHYVwfBOhcwCfLU5Vx5aHFUoTaYZAXkjaVXzBvEQAKnJMkBpUpFkrM-NJ2fOAFQYvMTEU8ffuCnFM-beTueddUAfL3x_0LcqcdKzbDwnl73Pst_HzPDxu6sYU7/s1600/129072920_f7240019b2_m.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirJn9j7EYuWVpCQZDHZtIHYVwfBOhcwCfLU5Vx5aHFUoTaYZAXkjaVXzBvEQAKnJMkBpUpFkrM-NJ2fOAFQYvMTEU8ffuCnFM-beTueddUAfL3x_0LcqcdKzbDwnl73Pst_HzPDxu6sYU7/s1600/129072920_f7240019b2_m.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Penmon Lighthouse </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</tbody></table><span lang="EN-GB"> You walk along the headland for a short way and then you can access a pebbly beach and there is a café and toilets (you do have to buy something at the café to use the toilet though). </span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwwnkIemdrVxLcJ-f-MQunhyphenhyphen33JyjrMW0EHKoEnR271eBAGugzjBYs61IpGBG-kaJT4ZwA04RdyCguK04hsOT810W299-TrAphEzutWc34OhhimAQQ8R9q0FDKod5l69_pZmkdfk-Ipti9/s1600/129072792_290092b95a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwwnkIemdrVxLcJ-f-MQunhyphenhyphen33JyjrMW0EHKoEnR271eBAGugzjBYs61IpGBG-kaJT4ZwA04RdyCguK04hsOT810W299-TrAphEzutWc34OhhimAQQ8R9q0FDKod5l69_pZmkdfk-Ipti9/s320/129072792_290092b95a.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View across the headland taking in the beach, lighthouse, Puffin Island and cafe (white building to the right)</td></tr>
</tbody></table><span lang="EN-GB">(Photos of lighthouse and headland courtesy of Dangrey, Photo of Priory courtesy of Ted and Jen - all Flickr)</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">The views and landscape are gorgeous and people drive directly to Penmon Point to enjoy them but the walk is so easy that I certainly wouldn’t.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">This was the first walk that my youngest, Josephine did in its entirety at nearly 3 years old and the changing landscape helped to keep her engaged as the lazy little monkey would have preferred her normal position in the baby carrier!</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">However, by re-enacting one of her Dora the Explorer books we found ourselves walking through ‘Mucky Mud’, the ‘Spooky Forest’ and by ‘Froggy Pond’. (Ok – so Froggy Pond was the sea but call it creative licence!).</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">This is suitable for off road prams but you will need to lift the buggy over 1 or 2 stiles. </span><br />
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</div><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="http://rcm-uk.amazon.co.uk/e/cm?t=twinsmumpluso-21&o=2&p=8&l=as1&asins=1850588406&ref=tf_til&fc1=000000&IS2=1&lt1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe>scoutstrialbloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00734426925146437568noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3261159945433662174.post-40935695732442538472011-05-21T13:16:00.000-07:002011-05-21T13:16:49.778-07:00A new family car - 5 or 7 seats?We have reached the point where we desperately need a new car.<br />
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Our second car is costing us a fortune to keep on the road and has now developed a very strange habit of flashing its hazard warning lights when the doors are opened (regardless of whether the engine is on) and the windscreen wipers can't be relied on.<br />
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Unfortunately due to work we can't manage without 2 cars although I would love to be able to and did when I was at home with the children. <br />
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Our main car is a Citreon Bellingo. We bought it just before the twins were born. It was a year old and as the design is converted from the Citreon van was a lot cheaper than other family cars of a similar age. There weren't many of these on the road at the time and I wasn't convinced that I liked it.<br />
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Nearly 7 years on I am a convert - it has been absolutely fantastic as a family car. Clearly other people think so too as you see so many more on them on the road now.<br />
<br />
It has a generous boot which is able to transport a double buggy, 2 travel cots and all the other paraphernalia you take with you when traveling with babies. The seats are high up meaning that you don't have to bend to strap babies/children into car seats and the rear doors slide open meaning that all the stress of slamming the doors into neighbouring cars is removed when getting children in and out of the car in car parks.<br />
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</tbody></table></div></div></div>(The children modelling the marvellous boot space the Citreon Bellingo has to offer on a camp trip last year). <br />
<br />
More recent research has shown it to be fairly economical - certainly against larger family cars / MPVs.<br />
<br />
So - we have decided that rather than buy another old banger we will bite the bullet and buy a car a couple of years old which will become our main family car. Because of the above, the Citreon Bellingo or its counterparts, the Fiat Doplo or the Peugot Partner are the favoured car which even when a few years old are cheaper than traditional family cars.<br />
<br />
The other element to our search is that these makes also do a 7 seat version which when we have looked is likely to take us slightly over the budget we have set for the car. We are now debating the value of those 2 extra seats. My feeling is that as the children are getting older it might be nice if they can bring friends along on family outings / birthday trips etc. Also, my mother-in-law no longer drives and it would be nice to be able to take her out with us from time to time.<br />
<br />
Mmmmm.....what to do?<br />
<br />
If anyone has any thoughts on the value of a 7 seat family car when you have 3 children I'd be really grateful to receive it. This will be the biggest purchase we make for some years to come and I really want to get it right - so any help would be appreciated.<br />
<br />
In the meantime.....pray it doesn't rain!scoutstrialbloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00734426925146437568noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3261159945433662174.post-66704039636940381792011-05-20T13:22:00.000-07:002011-05-20T13:22:41.378-07:00Toddler Twins - should I buy twin reins?<span lang="EN-GB">My son always thought running off and being chased was an excellent game and as you can imagine having a sibling the same age means twice as much mischief and fun (although not always for poor mum!).<span> </span>So inevitably my daughter (who I believe would have walked nicely with me) would disappear after her brother or often in the opposite direction.</span> <div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">On this basis it wasn’t safe to walk near roads or other potential dangers without the children in their buggy or on reins until they were old enough to have a better understanding of cause and effect! (For us probably about 2 - 2 1/2 yrs).<br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">As I was a member of a twins club with a group of children of similar ages we decided to try <a href="http://www.twinsuk.co.uk/products/100226/Tommiguard-Twin-Reins/">twin reins</a> and were able to get a discount on the purchase of a number of sets.<span> </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB"> <o:p> <br />
</o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">The answer to all my prayers?<span> </span>Not exactly!<span> </span>You could join the reins together and hold in one hand but I didn’t find that it worked particularly well as one would want to walk faster or slower then the other, they would cross paths, one would trip and pull the other down.<span> </span> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">However, one definite advantage to these reins was that they came with an adult belt so I had the ability to secure the reins around my waist and I then had my hands free to hold the children's hands and teach them to walk with me nicely. (Well attempt at any rate!!). You didn't have to join the reins together to attach them to the belt which prevented them pulling each other over. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB"></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.twinsuk.co.uk/phpmedia/10150_450.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="304" src="https://www.twinsuk.co.uk/phpmedia/10150_450.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">(Photo courtesy of www.twinsuk.co.uk)</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">A friend also commented on the length of the reins and how much easier they were for her husband to use as he had found that ordinary baby reins were not long enough for him to use comfortably.<br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">I did go on to invest in the wrist straps when they were slightly older but I should warn you that they can slip off the child’s wrist if they are not taut.<span> </span>I lost my daughter in a children’s department store at the same time I was paying for the wrist straps because of this and of course she was far too small to spot over the rails and shelves.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">Fortunately, I managed to find her before any harm became of her and the only casualty was my poor nerves!</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">I have found that I used the pushchair for longer with my twins than with their younger sister, predominantly to ensure that they were safe.<span> </span>This is a key reason to buy a lightweight pram!<span> </span>However, I don’t think that has caused any problems and in fact both completed an 8 mile walk last weekend at the tender age of 6 so don’t worry if it feels that that they’ll never be out of the buggy. The two most important things are to keep the children safe and to retain your sanity! </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">Does anyone else have any experience of twin reins and a thought on the value of buying them? </span></div>scoutstrialbloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00734426925146437568noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3261159945433662174.post-77585322032192914262011-05-16T14:22:00.000-07:002011-05-17T12:25:30.260-07:00One to one time with twins? Question posted by <a href="http://www.ikandi.org/">Kandi</a> of Twin-spiration on <a href="http://multiplesandmore.blogspot.com/2010/02/featured-blogger-kandi-of-twin.html?showComment=1305580131370#c7376723825075611994">Multiples and more</a><br />
<br />
(Kandi has beautiful 6 year old indentical twin girls)<br />
<br />
The question posted on the site...<br />
<br />
Do you have one on one time with your twins and if so what do you do? Do you feel guilty not being with the other one and how often do you do one on one time? We have tried it many time but enjoy being together with all of us better. I do think it's important to have that one on one time but am not sure where to go or what to do and how long and how often to do them.<br />
<br />
<b>My thoughts to Kandi's question:</b><br />
<br />
I have 6 year old fraternal twins (1 boy and 1 girl) and another 3 year old daughter. Both my husband and I work (though I reduced my hours at work last October)so time is tight and we do tend to do lots together as a family. We also love camping and getting out and about in the summer so that again tends to be time we spend together as a family.<br />
<br />
Your photos look great and you all look happy, healthy and connected as a family so whatever you are doing is obviously working<br />
<br />
That being said we do from time to time have 1-1 time, girls days, boys days, quick trips to the shops etc and I think the option for that increases as they get older. It is probably easier for us because of the gender difference as my twins have very different interests. <br />
<br />
We haven't done it for a while and the older 2 did suggest it the other day - so perhaps your girls have a view?<br />
<br />
However, with your girls being in different classes (something I think is important for all sorts of reasons) are you finding that they are being invited to different parties / social activities? This could be the perfect time to enjoy some individual time in a natural way.<br />
<br />
I found that when my twins were babies I did feel guilty on focusing on one more than the other and then I realised that actually I was focussing on which ever baby needed that input at the time (be it illness, development etc). It also seemed to even out in the end.<br />
<br />
I think it is also very easy to feel guilty about choices that we make as a parent and I think that that is a shame as most parents are doing a great job. Did the previous generation worry so much I wonder?scoutstrialbloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00734426925146437568noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3261159945433662174.post-74432314787482087082011-05-15T12:53:00.000-07:002011-05-15T12:53:35.017-07:00Cashback websites - are you missing out?With 3 growing children it is absolutely essential that we budget carefully and make every penny count so the discovery of cashback websites was so exciting!<br />
<br />
However, having met up with an old friend yesterday I was surprised to find out that some people are still not aware that these exist.<br />
<br />
These sites act as a portal through to other sites where, if you make purchases, you receive a percentage of your payment back. It really is money for nothing.<br />
<br />
There are an array of cashback sites available but I use the <a href="http://www.topcashback.co.uk/ref/kiminwales1">Top Cashback</a> site. To date I have 'earned' £128 from cashback on things that I was intending to buy anyway. I think my sister is doing very well through this as she is going through this site in order to make her catalogue payments.<br />
<br />
Sites I have received cashback from include:<br />
The book people - £2.55<br />
Ebay - £7.44<br />
The Entertainer toy shop - £17.67<br />
Travelodge - £4.65<br />
Parcel Force - £4.04<br />
AA Travel Insurance- £4.76<br />
P & O Ferries - £8.64<br />
<br />
As well as percentage cashback offers there are fixed price payments for certain transactions i.e I received £5 cashback on my first Tesco delivery. They often do good deals on mobile phone networks and insurance brokers like go Compare often offer cashback on getting quotes.<br />
<br />
You can get free payments through using certain search engines and entering competitions as well.<br />
<br />
My biggest cashback payment was £33 when I purchased our new computer through the Dell website.<br />
<br />
One word of caution - this is only a good deal if you were intending to buy from those shops in the first place! Buying things that you don't want or paying more for the item or on delivery in order to receive cashback only works if the cashback is greater than the higher costs incurred.<br />
<br />
Have a look if you aren't already using one - they are definitely worth using!<br />
<br />
Let me know how you get on.scoutstrialbloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00734426925146437568noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3261159945433662174.post-14150385330758889452011-05-13T12:42:00.000-07:002011-05-13T12:42:14.341-07:00Family hotel rooms for 5 or more<div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">We tend to go camping when we holiday in the UK but from time to time we have found it is useful to have hotel accommodation.<span> </span>However, to my dismay, many hotel family rooms don’t accommodate a family of 5 and finding one that does is hard even with the internet.<span> </span>Sadly, this also includes the budget ones – although the price of 2 rooms for a night is still often cheaper than for 1 room at a more expensive hotel.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">I have recently found '<a href="http://www.roomfor5.co.uk/">Roomfor5</a>', a website that helps with finding accommodation in the UK, France, Spain, the USA and beyond for larger families (5+) which looks like a great resource.<span> </span>Whilst I haven’t had reason to use it to book anywhere yet it is great to have a single site that links you to so many hotels.</span></div><span lang="EN-GB"><o:p> </o:p></span> <br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">Great idea and many thanks to Drina Murphy who came up with the idea!</span></div>scoutstrialbloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00734426925146437568noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3261159945433662174.post-1316695920129916482011-05-10T14:21:00.000-07:002011-05-10T14:21:38.916-07:00Walking with kids - Introducing Dovedale, the Peak District<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw59U5q92EfS_YlAGk6ShSY0VYDf1jcS6ocGkjiAwRrWMgHJzaNEtikZykWVAX_WKJv1XXNxQ8oEF4XGAuQdQvfgytBiTC059OHBg9OqEje0noqIx9lFzR9LyU_ociVy9G47TlIaj8YWJd/s1600/064.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw59U5q92EfS_YlAGk6ShSY0VYDf1jcS6ocGkjiAwRrWMgHJzaNEtikZykWVAX_WKJv1XXNxQ8oEF4XGAuQdQvfgytBiTC059OHBg9OqEje0noqIx9lFzR9LyU_ociVy9G47TlIaj8YWJd/s320/064.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
We had a fantastic time camping near Buxton in the Peak District over the Easter holidays.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
We enjoy the countryside, camping and walking as a family and walking is a free activity which can bring loads of benefits. Fresh air, exercise and time together as a family being examples.<br />
<br />
And just because you have young children doesn't mean that you can't enjoy these activities although sometimes a bit of thought is needed. <br />
Our twins (see above) managed their first 2.5 mile walk before they were 3 years old and I hope to post some tips of walking with children in future blogs.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://peakdistrict.nationaltrust.org.uk/dovedale">Dovedale</a> in the Peak District is ideal for walking with a young family. The biggest challenge to accessibility would be the stepping stones (see above and below) but it is fine if you are using a baby carrier and I should imagine that you could get a buggy across with a bit of help. I probably would have tried taking ours across though it may not be recommended!. You would need some help in carrying a pram across and would need to ensure that the stones were dry and conditions were suitable before doing so. (Or alternatively you can access the walk from the other end and stop before the stepping stones).<br />
<br />
There are dirt and stone paths which would be more suitable to an off road pram or the option we use is a baby carrier for our youngest. She is however quite a weight now so is being encouraged to walk by herself more often (Josephine is below with my ever suffering husband, Niall and the well used backpack!).<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEQNeWJB2AXRvJa3JPCkY4sArLlIicOVv81NVXCwKMavwB0TNLLjCvOmIRBCxLa6CN7ria5AJ62pGU5MrsOMsk62iJgUrUr9ZnhYtTMljQ55QnWQfQpz7r14g81kS8hdGN9nsKXqkMMdkd/s1600/068.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEQNeWJB2AXRvJa3JPCkY4sArLlIicOVv81NVXCwKMavwB0TNLLjCvOmIRBCxLa6CN7ria5AJ62pGU5MrsOMsk62iJgUrUr9ZnhYtTMljQ55QnWQfQpz7r14g81kS8hdGN9nsKXqkMMdkd/s320/068.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtLvc3sShrHeGrFxUPJgiyiTBSmLlAUbwUW4_CVkYpzFl2tovC4dvukam6dDbFV1m06_HBhbfkzkGDC2tKbh_APLerjE85q5TmqRz6w0In_qKneQ0mZu_7P43XE465C6pTRVZU0IkpX0k7/s1600/082.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtLvc3sShrHeGrFxUPJgiyiTBSmLlAUbwUW4_CVkYpzFl2tovC4dvukam6dDbFV1m06_HBhbfkzkGDC2tKbh_APLerjE85q5TmqRz6w0In_qKneQ0mZu_7P43XE465C6pTRVZU0IkpX0k7/s320/082.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> The benefits of the walk at Dovedale for children is the varied scenery and focal points. There are a range of caves of different shapes and sizes.<br />
<br />
Logs you can sit on (for the braver and more senior amongst us) for the perfect photo opportunity.<br />
<br />
There are also a multitude of birds to spot on the river and overhead. We didn't see a kingfisher but we saw a number of very tame dippers. <br />
<br />
And the children were absolutely delighted to find a tree stump and log bench stuffed with coins. The photos below demonstrate their attempts to remove them (I'm pleased to say that they weren't successful!).<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-SsgEdJKyeuwxJwE__asHDtXFrTIwEogbk26Pknlxm7y0LBZ1xRFpEtkk3_P5lxvtT9M9vT3omDgrWDbZTmhyphenhyphen3w1tX0XkK-c9bnGrEstbBwIfKoyDTnPoyDvrbIHbQyKBY51IwSjoAmna/s1600/075.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-SsgEdJKyeuwxJwE__asHDtXFrTIwEogbk26Pknlxm7y0LBZ1xRFpEtkk3_P5lxvtT9M9vT3omDgrWDbZTmhyphenhyphen3w1tX0XkK-c9bnGrEstbBwIfKoyDTnPoyDvrbIHbQyKBY51IwSjoAmna/s320/075.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
This is a linear walk (we started from the car park at the bottom of Dovedale) so you have the option to turn round when you have had enough and return to the car park or you can continue the full 3 miles to reach the pretty village of <a href="http://peakdistrict.nationaltrust.org.uk/milldale">Milldale</a>, buy an ice cream or a cup of tea and sit by the river. <br />
(This walk would be 6 miles in total from Dovedale to Milldale return).<b></b><br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
Milldale was busy in the run up to Easter and I should imagine would get very busy during the busy summer season - so it might be worth setting off early or avoiding the peak holiday periods. But it is definitely worth visiting.<br />
<br />
We went with family and left a car at the other end so we only walked one way on this particular day but the twins at age 6 1/2 years are capable of managing 8 miles with plenty of snacks but they are used to longer walks - so plan according to the needs of your family.<b> </b><b><br />
</b><br />
<br />
<b>For full details of this walk see http://www.trekkingbritain.com/dovedaletomilldale.htm</b><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiheKhCZ3P0rP0cnUUw1nE133OuBdft7FUa3NzQyX4Dsd8m3lVC9C5-d80mNEaJpbauAi4_8hoMkXliaGPYaNwnze5GtmA_owAqcq69u_a5Cy6e-jUBvHTCPh2qvhvh1xTlmYGdGo9xOTp0/s1600/084.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiheKhCZ3P0rP0cnUUw1nE133OuBdft7FUa3NzQyX4Dsd8m3lVC9C5-d80mNEaJpbauAi4_8hoMkXliaGPYaNwnze5GtmA_owAqcq69u_a5Cy6e-jUBvHTCPh2qvhvh1xTlmYGdGo9xOTp0/s320/084.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><b><br />
</b>scoutstrialbloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00734426925146437568noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3261159945433662174.post-69797031874540535032011-05-09T14:30:00.000-07:002011-05-09T14:30:05.150-07:00Diary of a new blogger - the 3rd postWe have been away over Easter - camping in Derbyshire and this has had somewhat of a negative impact on my progress as a new blogger.<br />
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On the positive side we had a fantastic time in Derbyshire, the weather was fantastic and I have some great ideas for future posts but on the downside I have not been keeping up with the tasks that I have been sent through my weekly E blog course courtesy of <a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1461620192">littlemummy.com</a><br />
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I feel a bit like a naughty school girl although I know that no one is checking up on me. Perhaps I feel like this because I am keen to master this new blog world and know that I won't do it if I don't learn more and continue with the lessons.<br />
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Either way - with the mantra 'I must do better' I will keep working through it and add some more content to this blog as well.<br />
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Keep your fingers crossed for me this week!scoutstrialbloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00734426925146437568noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3261159945433662174.post-40733068691301165462011-04-26T13:54:00.000-07:002011-04-26T13:54:37.387-07:00Bathing Baby Twins - what the books don't tell you!<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-GB">Bathing twin babies can be quite a stressful experience.<span> </span>Often small babies don’t like being dressed and undressed and whilst they can be content while in the water they may want to be wrapped and dried quickly once the bath experience is finished.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-GB">If you are experiencing this don’t panic – this stage will pass and soon your twins will be grumbling when removed from the bath because they are enjoying it so much.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-GB">To save money I would recommend that you don’t bother buying a baby bath.<span> </span>I had one which I used a couple of times but I found that they are heavy to move when filled and awkward to fill and empty unless you stand it in the bath to use.<span> </span></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-GB">There are a number of alternatives on the market but the cheap and easy alternative I found was to buy a baby bath sponge which you lay your baby on whilst in the regular bath.<span> <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/Summer-Infant-Comfy-Bath-Sponge/dp/B000H953Y2">http://www.amazon.co.uk/Summer-Infant-Comfy-Bath-Sponge/dp/B000H953Y2</a></span></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-GB">I am a great advocate of doubling up on tasks where you can but I wouldn’t recommend that you try and bath both babies at the same time as it won’t be long until they are trying to roll.<span> </span>A baby can become distressed very quickly in only a small amount of water so it is safer to concentrate on one baby at a time and have 2 hands available to help your little one out of trouble if required.<span> </span>Needless to say, never leave your baby alone in the bath.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-GB">The other main reason not to bath both at the same time, is that once out of the water young babies can scream until they are dried and dressed, so it is much better to do this as quickly as possible.<span> </span>If you have two wet babies one will inevitably have to wait while you deal with the first.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-GB">Many books on routines for babies recommend a bath as preparation and a cue to the baby that it is bedtime.<span> </span>DO NOT LISTEN! - There are plenty of other things you can do to bring in bedtime cues other than a daily bath such as cuddles and a feed in a dimly lit room, perhaps some gentle music.<span> </span>So I’d avoid making a bath a fundamental part of an evening routine unless you absolutely have to.<span> </span>Babies do not become particularly dirty and the daily top and tail wash will be enough with a bath once or twice a week.<span> </span>This is also much better for their skin as well particularly if they have eczema.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-GB">I didn’t use a daily evening bath within our bedtime routine and my twins have been excellent sleepers once the routine became established at around 8 weeks old.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-GB">You may find it easier to bath your babies in the morning when they are less tired and fretful or to bath each baby on a different day. </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-GB">Once your babies are able to sit confidently then it becomes easier to bath both together.<span> </span>Look out for longer length non-slip bath mats for in the bath and avoid oil based bath soaps as this can also make the bath slippery.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-GB">My final piece of advice when you get to this stage is to invest in a waterproof coat and hat as 2 babies splashing in the bath is great fun but can get very wet!<span> </span></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjStC0-onTfzDjaWsvA26WTd0vqeWS9Do9BuCSrbSxPLFhWOb8C_n_toTaUwbN3B-y_T1J6j2xt3kSyoaYwD_M9BFs3PBCpt515A-gtG-KUBfWsLkGbg6jkyN0wkS_VRaF4AqBNGMHv3U5X/s1600/33361911_6b1fa78ec4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjStC0-onTfzDjaWsvA26WTd0vqeWS9Do9BuCSrbSxPLFhWOb8C_n_toTaUwbN3B-y_T1J6j2xt3kSyoaYwD_M9BFs3PBCpt515A-gtG-KUBfWsLkGbg6jkyN0wkS_VRaF4AqBNGMHv3U5X/s320/33361911_6b1fa78ec4.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><em>Photo by flickr user <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/schwarz/33361911/">Rebecca and Bernhard</a></em>scoutstrialbloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00734426925146437568noreply@blogger.com0