The Outdoor Summer Holiday Bucket-list

If you live in the UK the Summer Holidays will be arriving in a matter of days, for some of you over the Scottish Boarder, you will be already enjoying the slower days. I am so ready for the summer holidays this year, I am lucky, that as a teacher I get to spend the summer with my children. But in the last few years, the summer holidays have often filled me with dread. Six weeks is a long time to keep two little ones entertained and I have often found myself feeling overwhelmed.

I know many of you are probably feeling the same, summer holidays are long and can be expensive if you’re not careful. I have spent the last few weeks coming up with low-cost ideas to keep us all busy and hopefully we won’t run out of things to do and naturally, I thought I would share them with you (we’ve got to keep together to survive the holidays!).

Darcie the Ballerina

For months and months and months Darcie has expressed a big interest in Dancing, in particular ballet. So last month we decided that she was now ready to give it a go and signed her up to a ballet and tap class. For anyone that know's me personally will know that this excited me greatly. Why? Well through my childhood and teen years I was slightly obsessed with dancing, Ballet, Tap, Modern, Jazz, Street, Disco you name it I did it! My poor parents gave up so much of their time for me to be able to attend and develop, they paid for endless lessons, exams, shows (some which included performing at Disney Land  and the Royal Albert Hall) and now its my turn to become a "dancer mum" like my mum before me.

Planning the Perfect Summer Picnic

Today I have a lovely guest post from Mary about the perfect summer picnic - exactly what we need in this lovely weather we have been having!

Planning the Perfect Summer Picnic 

As the sunshine is finally here there’s no better way to celebrate then with a day out with the children, and a basket full of their favourite foods. 

Whether you’re joining in with the fun, or sitting back and watching their delight, the summer gives us longer days and more opportunities to spend time as a family. 

After what’s felt like an endless time spent inside watching the raindrops fall down the windows, it feels like a new lease of life has been instilled in everyone as we all make plans to get outside and make the most of the weather we’ve been blessed with. 

A picnic can be the perfect way to spend summer days, so for a fuss free adventure in the great outdoors I’ve compiled a guide to keep the fun coming and the tantrums at bay. 

As Mums we all know that any day out never goes without a military style organisation plan.

The Destination

Picking a place to enjoy your picnic is the most important task, as it can make or break your entire day out. 

Like any Mum you’ll have to think about the worst case scenarios. If it rains, will there be somewhere that you can shelter? And are there activities for them to take part in? 

Keeping the little ones entertained is the hardest part of any day out, so find somewhere that they’re never going to get bored of is essential. 

You could be testing your own luck, but sometimes it’s a nice idea to ask the little ones where they would like to go, however if you’d rather not run the risk there are a number of resources such as this one that list the best days out for children across the UK. 

The Nibbles  

Eating out with the family can often be expensive when you’re planning your day out. Especially if there is an admission fee to get into your chosen destination. 

Planning a tasty picnic that will keep them well-nourished during their activities will mean you can focus on enjoying time with them rather than worry about what they’re eating. 

Combine your picnic basket with sweet treats and healthy snacks, so that if they become distracted by any of the over expensive food available, you have something to satisfy their requests. 

Finger foods are the easiest for picnics, but if you’ve got the time, try and cut them into fun shapes that will encourage the children to eat them. 

If it’s quite an active day you’ve got planned make it easy to carry around the food with a picnic bag like this one, that way when hunger strikes the little ones can be easily fed without any costly purchases. 

The Fun 

Don’t just rely on the activities that your chosen destination has available. Sometimes no matter how hard you try and convince them, children simply don’t feel like taking part. Instead, take along toys and games that they will feel happy to play with no matter their mood.

Mummy B xoxox

*Guest Post

Great Apps for Toddlers

Whether you agree with toddlers using electronic devices or not, their is no denying that at times they can be incredibly handy. We have found quite a few apps that our toddler, Darcie really loves and benefits from. Just before anyone starts to judge, Darcie doesn't sit there all day playing on my Ipad - that's something I certainly don't agree with. But in the mornings if I'm trying to get ready and she is wanting to laze around in mummy's and daddy's bed it can be quite handy whilst I have a quick shower! Also on long car journey's they have been a godsend - especially when we have been stuck in traffic jams!

Story Apps 

We quite like story apps that can either read to her or as she gets older can read independently. If you have been following me for a while you will know that we love books in our house and there isn't a day that goes by where we don't read books together. However, the handy thing about these apps is that when you're on the go (like in the car) and you can't easily read to them, they can still get their story fix! Our favourites include Disney's Storytime and Cbeebies Storytime.

Educational Game Apps

Darcie has grown quite fond of playing games on my Ipad, it amazes me how quickly they pick up how to play the games too. There are some fantastic little games that have been specially designed for toddlers and some are even very educational too. Our favourites include LEGO DUPLO Train, Cbeebies Playtime and Disney's Winnie the Pooh.

Creative Apps

My girl loves to be creative, partly why she doesn't want to spend much time on the Ipad! But when she is in a creative mood and wants to draw, like in the car, there are a few apps that let her fulfil her creative needs. Disney's Creative Studio is fantastic for this as you can draw independently, or learn how to draw your favourite character or do a spot of colouring in. I'm not afraid to say I have played on this app too!

What are your thought's on toddlers playing on apps? Do you have any favourites?

Mummy B xoxox

Imaginative Outdoor Play

Imaginative play is one of my daughters favourite things to do and to be honest it’s something that I try to encourage. There is nothing more magical than taking a glimpse into their own little worlds of wonder. You may be asking what exactly is imaginative play, and essentially it is when children are role playing and are acting out various experiences they may have had or something that is of interest to them. It's key for a child's development as it shows they are experimenting with decision making, how they are to behave and also polishing off those social skills. Children learn from experience, they take in everything around them and then, to absorb those experiences and make sense of it all, they then become engaged in imaginary play.

Five playground games for little ones

Another wonderful guest post from the lovely Mary.

5 Playground Games For Little Ones 

When the garden is overgrown after a winter of neglect, and it’s too wet and wild for the children, the playground becomes an essential destination for helping to burn off some of that excess energy. 

There’s sometimes nothing worse than being stuck inside with bored little ones. Whilst you try and think up any form of entertainment that might help pass an hour at least. 

But despite the wet weather the Playground is the perfect place to develop some essential skills for youngsters such as balance and co-ordination. 

So when the going gets tough inside, pop on their wellie boots and wrap them up for an afternoon of play. 

You’re IT 

Getting active along with the children can benefit you and them. 

You can burn off a few calories whilst they have an absolute fun time with their mum. 

Playing tag is one of the activities that will get you both running around, much to their hilarity as you try and tag them. 

They’ll be running around in fits of giggles before you can say ‘Your IT’, and you’ll feel great for being outside and enjoying quality time with them. 

Who needs a gym when you’ve got a little one to run after? 

Colourful Chalk 

If your youngster is the creative type then grab some coloured chalks and set-off to beautify the playground. 

Letting me release their inner artist will encourage them to be confident in the activities they enjoy the most. Just don’t forget to take along some water to wash it away, as many local councils may frown on any leftover artwork. 

Just in case perhaps call the local council and suggest an area for creative chalk play. 

Colourful art should be encouraged and can brighten up some of the dullest parks. 

A Mini Circuit 

There is so much to do at the playground from swings to slides, to monkey bars, to roundabouts. 

Instead of following them around idly, create a mini circuit and time them to see how fast they can do it all. 

They will love the challenge and find it fun to know you’re helping them.

Giving them the chance to use all that the playground has to offer, is a great way of making them use and improve multiple skills. 

If you want to know about other activities that can help them with life skills, there are various articles online such as this one, which can tell you about the benefits of outside play. 

Kick or Throw 

Ball games are always the easy way out when it comes to playground games, but hand-eye co-ordination is a skill that ball games are great for. 

Whether you become their goalie, or you’re just playing a game of catch, ball games will make them concentrate on the task at hand and work with you. 

For much more fun, allow them to bring along a friend so they can do this with a team mate.

An Adventure for Explorers 

If your little ones get bored easily after a while in the playground, encourage their in explorers to take a nature trail. 

Help them find some treasures and wildlife that they can learn about. 

Whether you find a pretty flower to take home with you, or find a beautiful lady bug to watch. 

Showing them the wonders of the outdoors will make them feel as though they’re off on an adventure each time you visit the playground. 

Whichever game you decide to play just ensure you have done a quick safety check of the playground to ensure no little accidents may occur. 

If your local playground is not clean or safe encourage your local council to have it maintained by professionals such as these. A safe environment is a fun one, and it should be kept in pristine order for the community to enjoy. 

I hope you have enjoyed this post as much as I have, we love the nature trail idea and will be trying this out next weekend!

Mummy B xoxox

P.Y.O at White House Farm, Norfolk

This afternoon we spent some quality time as a family, wandering around orchards and pumpkin patches at White House Farm, Norfolk. I had been searching for a place to take Darcie for a while now, and managed to stumble upon this this place online. I'm so glad I did, because its such a wonderful little find.

Autumn Activity // Leaf Crown

Leaf Crown Activity

Hello all, can you believe its the first of October? I can't, this year has flown by and to be honest, it really doesn't feel like October either with this unseasonably warm weather!

Today I thought I would share with you an idea that I kind of pinched from Darcie's nursery, The Leaf Crown.  I have by no means of showing you 'a how to', just this pretty cute picture I snapped of her showing off her creation she made whilst at nursery yesterday. But basically, they have used sugar paper double sided tape and leaves they collected (along with pretty coloured fabric leaves too) on a little walk. Pretty simple, but fun activity for tots!

We will be making our own for sure!

Mummy B xoxox

Nature Misses You

Im teaming up with the lovely people at The National Trust to let you know that nature misses YOU! We are all guilty, at times, of spending a little bit too much time in front of the telly, on our phones or laptops and not enough time enjoying the wonderful world around us. As a parent, I'm conscious of making sure that I encourage my daughter, Darcie, to get out and explore, whether its just in the garden, a local park or something a little bit more adventurous.

The National Trust launched a fantastic website called "50 things", the site inspire children to get outdoors and complete 50 activities before they are 11 3/4! I think this is a brilliant idea and was really surprised at some of the "things" of the list. Most of them are simple and free activities - there are really are no excuses for not getting stuck in and to start exploring! 

The website itself is fantastic, if you join up you also get the opportunity to unlock special certificates, games, hidden challenges and rewards for the best exlporers.C

During our honeymoon in Cornwall, we decided to tick a few things off the list. We managed 8 in total! Not bad going! We had so much fun completing these things, all of which didn't cost us a penny. This is perfect for the summer holidays, especially as we are now well into the holidays and the kids might be getting a little bored, so why not give it a go?! If you want to download your own 50 Things list head over HERE.

Here are a few snaps from our adventures so far...

I think Darcie was most keen on the wave jumping, rock pool searches and kit flying... she is a definite beach tot! We can't wait to keep going on with our adventures, I'm determined to get everything ticked off the list... and as she is only two its definitely doable! I'm hoping to keep you updated on how she is doing, I would love to hear from you guys as well if you fancy joining in!

Do you think your children would enjoy this? Have they already completed the list?

Mummy B xoxox

Mine & Darcie's Little Get Away + Some Exciting News

This weekend was Jamie's Stag Do, and as they were having it fairly local they decided to all stay at our house (I know, I'm brave right?!). So as me and Darcie didn't fancy being in a house full of drunk men, we decided to stay at my parents house and house sit for them.

Darcie was a little weary when we arrived, and very confused when my Dad and Sarah (step mum) left. She kept saying "Grandad gone?" and "Daddy at work?", bless her! She soon settled down... at 10pm! On Saturday we spent the day with friends, it was pretty perfect and got to see all my bridesmaids. I love chilled out days like this. 

Today, Sunday, we spent in the garden and going on a little walk. We fed the ducks, spoke to the horses and blew dandelions so fairies could be born! 

Whilst all this was taking place, I decided to do a little vlogging! Only whilst we were at home and on our walk. I'm taking my time, getting used to filming, talking on camera and editing (which takes an AGE!!!) and as we speak it is currently uploading!! Its a BIG step for me, as I have said so many times, I adore watching family vlogs (a guilty pleasure of mine!) and I have actually enjoyed putting it together! The filming part was easy, I just used my phone (I will progress onto a better camera!) and the editing part, though it took me a while to get used to iMovies, was lots of fun... so satisfying to see the finished piece! It is most definitely not perfect, but its a start! Keep your eyes peeled it should be up shortly!

Mummy B xoxox 

Easter Egg Hunt!

This morning we had our very first family Easter Egg Hunt!! It was super exciting, especially as we have never done one before. Its funny how when you have children your world opens up to so many exciting things!

Before we could begin me and my dad had the small task of setting up the Hunt whilst Jamie distracted Darcie. I had purchased a gorgeous set of signs especially for today and we were very kindly sent the chocolate from Lint. 

Even the bunnies had come out to play and left some of their carrots behind!

Once we were all set I gave Darcie her "bucket" as she called it and showed her the first sign. I explained to her that we needed to follow the signs and look out for eggs and bunnies and off she went!

We were so surprised how well she got the concept, she kept finding them and saying "hooray I got it!!", it was so unbelievably cute!

Of course once we had found all the eggs and bunnies, it was only fair to inspect the goodies...

Its fair to say, Darcie was a BIG fan of all the goodies! I'm so glad we decided to do one, it was the perfect morning!

After this we chilled in the sun, drinking tea and my Mum gave Darcie her Easter present, which included a fantastic Easter Bonnet which she demanded we make right there!

A big thank you to my dad  & step-mum, Sarah for hosting! It really was better than I imagined, already planning an egg and spoon race for next years!

Hope you're all have an amazing Easter weekend.

Mummy B xoxox

Organic Babies Collection - Review

This month is Green People's Skin Sensitive month and they asked me and Darcie to test out the Organic Babies sensitive skin range. Darcie has suffered with eczema ever since she was born, but it definitely gets worse during the warmer months. With this in mind it really was a no brainier and immediately said yes! 

We were kindly sent,

1. Dry Baby Skin Lotion - a gentle natural baby lotion which is suitable for the most sensitive skin. Rich in Omega-6 fatty acids to soothe dry and irritated skin. Can even be used to cleanse the nappy area! £9.95

2. Baby Wash  & Shampoo - a pure and natural formula that helps to keep bath time free from tears, suitable for washing body, hair and nappy area. This scent-free product helps to protect delicate skin from dryness and irritation. £7.25

3. Mum & Baby Rescue Balm - the organic Shea butter nourishes dry skin for mum and baby. It helps to sooth sore and cracked nipples before and after breastfeeding. £9.95

4.Soothing Baby Oil - softens and soothes your babies very sensitive skin. Contains a beautiful blend of natural oils that balance and restores dry skin. Can be used on cradle cap by softening and releasing flaky skin, also can help to keep mum's stomachs supple by improving skins elasticity, which may help to reduce stretchmarks. £10.95

We have been testing these products out for just over a month now and generally we were happy with the products. We have almost used up the Baby Skin Lotion and the Baby Wash & Shampoo has now completely gone, so we have well and truly put them to the test!

So what did we think??

We really enjoyed trying out the products, I'm already a big fan of the Green People due to their natural and organic ingredients. In particular we thought the Baby Wash & Shampoo was brilliant! Darcie, like me, gets eczema around her neck and hairline which can be a big problem when trying to find a good shampoo that gives nice clean and shiny hair without irritating the skin. The Baby Wash & Shampoo does exactly that!

The Soothing Baby Oil was perfect for after bath massage (yes we still do that at almost two!) and found it really helped around problem areas like her neck. 

The Dry Baby Skin Lotion was nice for top ups during the day. We tend to keep this in her changing bag for on the go use. I did find that it wasn't so effective on very dry skin, but it was nice all the same as a general lotion.

The Mum & Baby Rescue Balm is brilliant for very dry patches. Darcie does get quite a few patches around her neck, chest and arms and it has helped to calm these outbreaks down. 

I feel what worked really well was using all of these products together, since we ran out of the Baby Wash & Shampoo the patches around her neck have returned (the shampoo we're using must be irritating her!), so I really want to repurchase this again!

If you're interested in trying out some of these great products now's the time to try! As a part of Green People's Skin Sensitive month this April, they're offering 10% off everything in the scent free range, including  their scent free baby and suncare range (all products in this post too!)

Mummy B xoxox

We love trying out blog ideas!

I love to read blogs that inspire me to do activities with Darcie. Sometimes I have so many things buzzing around my head I fail to even think up the simplest of ideas! This weekend was no different, Mummy Daddy Me posted an awesome sweetie and chocolate treat that littleies would love and so simply couldn't resist giving it ago ourselves! 

Darcie loved to squidge all the pieces into place and of course pinching a few sweeties here and there and licking her fingers! This was the perfect and quick activity to set up with relatively little mess which means a happy mummy as well as a happy tot!

When my mum popped over, she told me how she had seen so many of these slabs of chocolate goodies sell for ridiculous prices when packaged as a gift. So I'm thinking of experimenting and creating different versions, maybe mixing milk and white chocolate to create pretty swirls and adding some of my favourite sweets or chocolates like mini Reese's cups! My mouth is watering at the thought!! You could personalise these slabs to a friend or family members likes to make THE perfect gift for chocoholics!

Be sure to check out the original post HERE to learn more about this great activity!

Mummy B xoxox

Picnic at Knettleshall Heath and thoughts on YouTube...

As this blog was a place to keep our memories safe, here is another post about a lovely, yet simple day out we had today.

This morning when we woke we had no plans at all. But my mum decided to pop over and we decided to make a little picnic and head over to a local beauty spot Knettleshall Heath. With our picnic in tow, wellies and jumpers we took the short car journey to our destination. Whilst in the car I shared with mum a couple of ideas we have had for our ceremony music for the wedding... who knew that could be such a hard task!!

As if was lunch time, we decided to have our little picnic first.

I made some pasta and we had very traditional picnic stuff like Scotch Eggs! We were so very organised we even brought green tea with us!! (Normally me and my mum spend a day out saying "wouldn't it have been nice if we were a little bit more organised if.." but today we were seemingly on fire!).

After our little lunch we headed for a walk along the river. Going for walks are literally one of my favourite things to do. Its such a good activity to do with tots, they can learn so much from different surroundings and above all the fresh air and exercise does everybody the world of good. 

We don't walk for the distance, we just like to take our time and let Darcie explore. Its nice to see things through little ones eyes.

Darcie is obsessed with flowers at the moment. She goes around and collects them to make her own bouquet, today her choice of flowers were seemingly Dandelions. Her new wellies have been getting lots of use over the Easter holidays! 

This afternoon whilst waiting for Jamie to get home from work, I have been thinking lots about setting up my own YouTube channel. I love watching family vlogs such as Sacconejoly and think its such an awesome way of capturing moments in ways that perhaps blogging can't. Today there were so many funny moments that would of been a perfect vlog and I keep thinking of our Honeymoon, what an amazing way it would be to keep our memories alive! The big question is, do I have the confidence? 

I'm not sure, what do you guys think of the vlogging community?

Mummy B xoxox