Recently I forgot a birthday of my friend's little girl. Damn.
"The alert on my phone hadn't worked" I declared.
"Right, no it's fine, it's honestly, completely FINE".
Darn you phone. You're supposed to tell me what to do; when to buy presents, when there's an INSET day, when Rosie's to wear non-uniform, when it's my anniversary, when to hand in a feature, when to call someone, when to set an alert and when to go to the toilet. Well, you get my drift...
I have alerts on both my laptop and my phone and a day-in-the-life here goes something like:
Ping - pay for playgroup
Ping - chase pitch sent last week
Buzz - deadline for mag
Ping - Rosie playing at Emily's
etc etc.
I rely on both Ping and Buzz; I need them. I sometimes write reminders for things that I'm simply not going to forget, like 'pick up Rosie' for instance; such reminders are set with the seeming assumption that I may one day wake up without the faintest clue of who I am, who I'm responsible for and what I have to do in Human Land. They show the deep-rooted mis-trust I have of myself, thinking it possible I might go to bed on an evening, without a single child in my house, thinking "now I'm sure there used to be some little people around this place."
Now I've reached the stage though that Ping and Buzz are such frequent visitors that I no-longer think for myself at all. I don't try and remember anything - I wait for Ping or Buzz to show up and deliver instructions.
Nor do I ever have to recall any facts or information from my suffering grey matter - why would I? - The internet in my pocket can find out things much, much faster than my little, shrinking 'ole brain. Whenever I've got that 'tip of the tongue' phenomena, before my brain gets to experience the aching it probably craves, I just slide, press google type in whatever and voila.
It can't be good for us, can it? Never having to think, never having to remember, being completely in-ept without our machinery. Perhaps I should go cold-turkey for a week, hand over my little oblongs and try and think for myself again. Or perhaps I'll ask google what it'd be like.
Tuesday, 31 January 2012
Friday, 27 January 2012
Touchy Subject Alert
This week I've been writing on 'how to get back in shape after childbirth' - and yes I will be running for cover when it's published. Oooo ouch - what a touchy subject!
"So what are you going to suggest?" asked a friend. "Hmm, stress, borderline hysteria/depression, swapping food for vodka. Worked for me". I (kind of) joke.
God it gets me nervous, writing anything that vaguely, even nearly-not-quite, hints at anything that's "you should perhaps do this" when it's anything related to parenthood. Change parenthood for motherhood. It's us isn't it; mothers. As Dara O'Briain daringly declared on his stand-up tour; "Mothers are bitches".
I think the problem is we all think that any suggestion of a particular approach, philosophy or whatever can be construed as a direct attack on our parenting and that is the most roar, deeply emotional, highly sensitive button you can press.
I like to take the point of view that whatever works best for you is right. I'm not one who has mock heart-failure at the sight of a 1 year old with a crisp - I might not have given my 1 year old a crisp but why should I care that much if you do? Do I really think said crisp is going to harm that dramatically? I do not. Furthermore I don't mind if you can't/chose not to breastfeed, if you didn't deliver naturally or any of this stuff (sorry for the abrupt end there, I think I've repressed the rest of the List of Items to be Judged Upon - I didn't score that highly to be honest).
So, when it comes to advice on getting back in shape? There will be no judgement, just gentle encouragement and a small warning against feeling the pressure from any Mummy loons waiting to pounce.
"So what are you going to suggest?" asked a friend. "Hmm, stress, borderline hysteria/depression, swapping food for vodka. Worked for me". I (kind of) joke.
God it gets me nervous, writing anything that vaguely, even nearly-not-quite, hints at anything that's "you should perhaps do this" when it's anything related to parenthood. Change parenthood for motherhood. It's us isn't it; mothers. As Dara O'Briain daringly declared on his stand-up tour; "Mothers are bitches".
I think the problem is we all think that any suggestion of a particular approach, philosophy or whatever can be construed as a direct attack on our parenting and that is the most roar, deeply emotional, highly sensitive button you can press.
I like to take the point of view that whatever works best for you is right. I'm not one who has mock heart-failure at the sight of a 1 year old with a crisp - I might not have given my 1 year old a crisp but why should I care that much if you do? Do I really think said crisp is going to harm that dramatically? I do not. Furthermore I don't mind if you can't/chose not to breastfeed, if you didn't deliver naturally or any of this stuff (sorry for the abrupt end there, I think I've repressed the rest of the List of Items to be Judged Upon - I didn't score that highly to be honest).
So, when it comes to advice on getting back in shape? There will be no judgement, just gentle encouragement and a small warning against feeling the pressure from any Mummy loons waiting to pounce.
Wednesday, 25 January 2012
Skeanie Shoes
These sandals are just gorgeous - all we need is sunshine now!
They're from Skeanie who have a great range of shoes for toddlers and young children. As a brand they're focussed on creating beautiful flexible-soled shoes that help tiny feet to breathe and grow naturally. See there range here.
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| New sandals RRP £34.99 |
Monday, 23 January 2012
Morning Fuel
All this week I’m taking part in the Weetabix Fuel for Big Days campaign and I’d like your tips on how you help your children have the best possible start to their day.
Keep an eye on the display box over on the right hand side of this page and you’ll find lots of ideas and comments during the week. And you can visit the Weetabix Fuel for Big Days facebook page and tell me your secret to a happy morning routine.
#sponsored post
Saturday, 21 January 2012
Un/Self-Employed
The other day someone asked what I do, "I'm un-employed" I cheerfully declared, at which point a look of sympathy swept the askers face as if she'd just put her foot quite plainly in it.
"Oh, I mean self-employed. I'm always getting them mixed up." And I do, sometimes when there's not much work flooding in, when I'm re-formatting the title on a feature I do have for the 23rd time, I feel a little un-employed and I start to ponder the idea of 'getting a job'.
A job job. One which involves not wearing PJs at a laptop or wiping your child's bum during a phone-interview. One which requires - get this - leaving my house. Yes a job job. It's all the rage apparently.
I even broached the subject with my beloved family...
"Nah" said Rosie when I asked if she'd be OK with me sometimes, very occaisionally not picking her up.
"But what would you do?" said my usually rather tactful husband.
Hmmm. I'd do a job. Y'know, a job in an office, where there's a water-cooler and a fax machine (do offices still have fax machines? - it's been a while!)
I'd wear a suit, I'd put on make-up, I'd be there on time. I wouldn't punctuate my working day with popping out for Weetabix or tidying away Lego. No, I'd be all workie and proper like.
We'll see. For now though I've just managed to scrape my hair into a ponytail so that I can see what I'm typing. Oh yeah, making a real effort in the office today!
"Oh, I mean self-employed. I'm always getting them mixed up." And I do, sometimes when there's not much work flooding in, when I'm re-formatting the title on a feature I do have for the 23rd time, I feel a little un-employed and I start to ponder the idea of 'getting a job'.
A job job. One which involves not wearing PJs at a laptop or wiping your child's bum during a phone-interview. One which requires - get this - leaving my house. Yes a job job. It's all the rage apparently.
I even broached the subject with my beloved family...
"Nah" said Rosie when I asked if she'd be OK with me sometimes, very occaisionally not picking her up.
"But what would you do?" said my usually rather tactful husband.
Hmmm. I'd do a job. Y'know, a job in an office, where there's a water-cooler and a fax machine (do offices still have fax machines? - it's been a while!)
I'd wear a suit, I'd put on make-up, I'd be there on time. I wouldn't punctuate my working day with popping out for Weetabix or tidying away Lego. No, I'd be all workie and proper like.
We'll see. For now though I've just managed to scrape my hair into a ponytail so that I can see what I'm typing. Oh yeah, making a real effort in the office today!
Friday, 20 January 2012
Little Green Radicals
I was so happy when this arrived in the post from Little Green Radicals as it's gorgeously soft and comfy and displaying one of their fab slogans.
Little Green Radicals have got a great choice online from cute baby gros to leggings for girls - all of which adhere to their ethical beliefs.
Little Green Radicals have got a great choice online from cute baby gros to leggings for girls - all of which adhere to their ethical beliefs.
SO ready for Springtime!
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| Girls Boden dress £25 |
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| John Lewis girl's striped long sleeve top £10-£12 |
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| Girls Boden Tee £17 |
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| Joules boys' trousers £27.95 |
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| Boy's tee from Joules £17.95 |
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| Women's top from from Cotswold Outdoor £35 |
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| Warehouse top from John Lewis £25 |
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Running Shoes from Millet Sports £128.24 |
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| People Tree top £25 |
Thursday, 19 January 2012
WOW Toys toy
I love this from WOW Toys...
It's their Bumpety Bump Bernie tractor and trailer set, and like much of the WOW stuff it's friction-powered.
Perfect for any tractor/farm loving tot it drives satisfyingly bumpily and it's chimney even bobs up and down. The trailer is detachable and they can place the animals neatly in place for a ride around.
WOW Toys have loads of toys perfect for gifts too - if you've not done so already I'd seriously recommend checking out their site http://www.wowtoys.com/
Wednesday, 18 January 2012
Our New Bestest Book: Sir Scallywag and the Golden Underpants
Well how could you resist this title?
This book could have literally been designed for my children; there's knights (I'd like to say my children are knight-obsessed following lengthy museum trips - alas I think it's more Mike the Knight!) there's rudeness (in the shape of bottoms) there's goodies and baddies and general hysterical silliness.
When King Colin's much-loved pants go missing, who does he call for? Sir Scallywag. The bravest of all the knights in the land. The only catch is Sir Scallywag is a 6 year old (much to the delight of my 6 year old) with an evil giant to worry about. In this rhyming David and Goliath tale Sir Scallywag proves that even the smallest, unlikeliest of heroes can indeed be the bravest in the land.
I love this book because it's just so child-centred - it's pure fun. Sure the rhyming element has huge benefits for language and literacy learning but it's the fast pace and the silly antics in the story which is it's absolute USP!
This book could have literally been designed for my children; there's knights (I'd like to say my children are knight-obsessed following lengthy museum trips - alas I think it's more Mike the Knight!) there's rudeness (in the shape of bottoms) there's goodies and baddies and general hysterical silliness.
When King Colin's much-loved pants go missing, who does he call for? Sir Scallywag. The bravest of all the knights in the land. The only catch is Sir Scallywag is a 6 year old (much to the delight of my 6 year old) with an evil giant to worry about. In this rhyming David and Goliath tale Sir Scallywag proves that even the smallest, unlikeliest of heroes can indeed be the bravest in the land.
I love this book because it's just so child-centred - it's pure fun. Sure the rhyming element has huge benefits for language and literacy learning but it's the fast pace and the silly antics in the story which is it's absolute USP!
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| By Giles Andreae and Korky Paul Out 2nd February 2012 Picture Puffin Paperback |
Tuesday, 17 January 2012
Valentines Gifts
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| Champagne truffles from John Lewis £15 |
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A romantic getaway with Eastern Airways (flights to Aberdeen, Birmingham, Bristol, Cardiff, Durham Tees Valley, East Midlands, Glasgow, Humberside, Leeds/Bradford, Newcastle, Norwich, Southampton, Stravanger, Stornoway and Wick) |
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| Thorntons Heart Lollies 99p each |
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| A Glossy Box Subscription |
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Guylian I Love You 50g box rrp £1.32 and 125g heart shaped box rrp £3.99. from all major supermarkets |
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| Thorntons Chocolate Liqueur £12.99 from ASDA |
Be My Guest Miranda Krestovnikoff, presenter of Coast, on natural parenting
People assume that because I am a TV personality, I must have had a love of broadcasting from an early age, but wildlife was my first passion. In fact, TV didn’t feature much at all in my childhood – I was more interested in hunting for mini-beasts in our huge back yard, or sitting up the Copper Beech tree watching squirrels. Despite moving from rural Buckinghamshire to Bristol, my passion for nature continued – my husband has always joked I’ve got ‘one foot in the soil’ – and when I had Amelia, nearly six, and Oliver, now three, I wanted to raise them in a down to earth fashion; the natural way.
Despite returning to work just weeks after having both children, I was determined to exclusively breast-feed. My mum was brilliant, dropping everything to come with me on location, looking after the children while I was filming, guarding my modesty while I was feeding! As the kids got older I noticed two things – they were both laid back, talking and playing with any crew member who came close; and they were both really inquisitive, wanting to see all the animals and trying any food offered to them. They’d caught the natural bug from me, and had the confidence and interest to pursue it.
Back home, instead of sitting them in front of the TV while I cook or do some gardening, the kids come out with me. They help me grow vegetables in our veg patch and collect eggs from our six rescue chickens. On rainy days we turn our home-grown produce into delicious soup or bake bread. We are lucky enough to have a pond where we can hunt for tadpoles, and a small orchard – we’ve had a lot of fun pressing apples for home made juice. When we are out and about I never push them in a buggy and try to drive them only when necessary – both the children love to walk (we're just negotiating cycling), reminding me if I forget to look left and right as we cross local roads.
I’m confident that my two kids will grow up self-sufficient and knowledgeable. I can’t wait to sample all the exciting food they will cook for me as they get older, hear all their stories of the adventures they’ve had around our village. I worry that too many people are hiding their children away in sterile play-centres when there is a world of fun to be had outside, whatever the weather. It’s only natural that you should want to keep your kids safe, but for me that isn’t the same as keeping them close – it’s about giving them the tools to go out and live. As a parent I hope I have lots of gifts to give my children, but independence is the most precious of all.
Miranda is an ambassador for charity Sustrans' Free Range Kids campaign, calling for a safer and more welcoming outdoor environment for children to play in, walk and cycle independently, learn and grow. Visit www.sustrans.org.uk/freerangekids to find out more and show your support by signing the pledge calling for 20mph in residential areas and better walking and cycling routes, especially to schools.
Monday, 16 January 2012
Bedding for the Boy!
The time has come to de-cage Charles. He'll be going into the toddler bed that we bought from GLTC when Rosie was released from her bars! The bed has been great, really solid stuff and so we're sticking with it and just getting some new bedding to fit.
We've decided on this lovely Robot design from GLTC as their cotton is always such good quality and their designs are so cute. Charles loves the look of his new robot "friends" and hopefully they may even make him keen to stay in bed - wish me luck with that!
We've decided on this lovely Robot design from GLTC as their cotton is always such good quality and their designs are so cute. Charles loves the look of his new robot "friends" and hopefully they may even make him keen to stay in bed - wish me luck with that!
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| Robot bedding from GLTC |
Saving Energy
I like to be green; in fact it's often a pledge of mine to be greener. The problem is I also have a liking for old, drafty Victorian houses like the one we live in! In the depths of last winter, when temperatures were hitting minus 12 and such like, we had ice on the inside of our sash windows; we were ffffffreezing! My Uggs never left my feet, only at bedtime when they were quickly replaced with fluffy welly socks. Needless to say our heating was being blasted pretty much 24/7.This year my eco-architect Dad insisted we had loft insulation and it's definitely made a difference, as has the slightly more generous winter weather.
When Southern Electric asked if I'd like to get involved with their online survey and iplan service I was delighted. This week is Big Energy Week and Southern Electric is working with Citizens Advice, charities, consumer groups, switching sites, Ofgem and the Government to give practical advice to people across the country to help them spend less on heating and powering their home, and essentially helping us to use energy more efficiently. See more about Big Energy Week here http://www.southern-electric.co.uk/bigenergyweek
I did their online survey myself actually and in spite of our efforts with the loft insulation I was disappointed to discover our house scores an E in efficiency with A being most efficient and G being least. The useful thing about the survey is the suggestions offered; I was told the savings I could make from having internal wall insulation and double glazing, for instance; whilst I can't stand the thought of changing all my windows the odd one, like perhaps the bathroom where it's particularly cold, maybe worth some thought - in fact I could apparently save up to £58 a year if I did this.
Have a go at the survey and see how you rate https://www.southern-electric.co.uk/energyefficiencysurvey/ and get some personalised tips too.
Southern Electric are also now offering iplan which is an online service that provides smart apps and tools, plus a FREE Smart Energy Kit, which works on helping you to use less energy and therefore subsequently cut your household bills.
iplan works by building up an online profile of you. The iplan display shows your electricity use in real time and the online service shows your consumption through simple graphs. It also gives you hints on how to help reduce your energy use to increase your eco-credentials as well as helping you to save money.
What's more iplan costs no more than their standard energy plus and you can save up to 6% when you sign up to paperless billing and pay by monthly direct debit. See more about iplan here http://www.southern-electric.co.uk/iplan/
Southern Electric are comitted to offering energy saving tips on their site too. Like, for example, I learnt your TV, DVD and Hi-Fi use masses of energy when not in use - up to 90% in standby mode!
See more of their energy saving tips here http://www.southern-electric.co.uk/BeingGreen/EnergySavingTips/ You'll find loads of hints on reducing your expenses on lighting, laundry, cooking and more! In fact we made one change straight away from reading their laundry tips - washing clothes at 30 degrees - which can save up to 40% energy!! I'm also being to taking their advice and not fill my kettle as if I'm expecting an army of thirsty tea drinkers to arrive and instead put in enough just for me - another way to cut enerygy costs.
This is a sponsored post.
When Southern Electric asked if I'd like to get involved with their online survey and iplan service I was delighted. This week is Big Energy Week and Southern Electric is working with Citizens Advice, charities, consumer groups, switching sites, Ofgem and the Government to give practical advice to people across the country to help them spend less on heating and powering their home, and essentially helping us to use energy more efficiently. See more about Big Energy Week here http://www.southern-electric.co.uk/bigenergyweek
I did their online survey myself actually and in spite of our efforts with the loft insulation I was disappointed to discover our house scores an E in efficiency with A being most efficient and G being least. The useful thing about the survey is the suggestions offered; I was told the savings I could make from having internal wall insulation and double glazing, for instance; whilst I can't stand the thought of changing all my windows the odd one, like perhaps the bathroom where it's particularly cold, maybe worth some thought - in fact I could apparently save up to £58 a year if I did this.
Have a go at the survey and see how you rate https://www.southern-electric.co.uk/energyefficiencysurvey/ and get some personalised tips too.
Southern Electric are also now offering iplan which is an online service that provides smart apps and tools, plus a FREE Smart Energy Kit, which works on helping you to use less energy and therefore subsequently cut your household bills.
iplan works by building up an online profile of you. The iplan display shows your electricity use in real time and the online service shows your consumption through simple graphs. It also gives you hints on how to help reduce your energy use to increase your eco-credentials as well as helping you to save money.
What's more iplan costs no more than their standard energy plus and you can save up to 6% when you sign up to paperless billing and pay by monthly direct debit. See more about iplan here http://www.southern-electric.co.uk/iplan/
Southern Electric are comitted to offering energy saving tips on their site too. Like, for example, I learnt your TV, DVD and Hi-Fi use masses of energy when not in use - up to 90% in standby mode!
See more of their energy saving tips here http://www.southern-electric.co.uk/BeingGreen/EnergySavingTips/ You'll find loads of hints on reducing your expenses on lighting, laundry, cooking and more! In fact we made one change straight away from reading their laundry tips - washing clothes at 30 degrees - which can save up to 40% energy!! I'm also being to taking their advice and not fill my kettle as if I'm expecting an army of thirsty tea drinkers to arrive and instead put in enough just for me - another way to cut enerygy costs.
This is a sponsored post.
Saturday, 14 January 2012
Story time bliss
I know there are other redeeming features about being a parent but one of my top 5 recommendations for having a child has to be the reading you get to do. I'll confess I'm not that sad to see that back of the whole "That's Not My... Reindeer/Bear/Mother Going Crazy" or whatever, but to parents of toddlers still in the midst of reading the same book (usually the least favourite of yours) again and again and again, and who are trying to think up new ways of saying, "can you spot the yellow digger?" just to make life interesting, trust me, I'm not kidding - it gets better, a whole lot better.
I'm reading Matilda to Rosie right now and once again I'm being hit on a nightly basis by Roald Dahl's mesmerising talent - his way with words that inspires, intrigues and just gets you whilst simultaneously being ridiculously silly and hilariously funny. Dahl's books are just such a joy to read, for adults and children alike but not in the way that some films and books have "lots in their for the adults too". In fact I hate hearing that so-called 'praise' for a film or book (and it's usually for a film - part of the tag line of the hugely expensive PR machine) as it usually means there's a heap of sloppy, cheap innuendos for the grown-ups to enjoy whilst their children look on bemused. I'm of the thinking that if I go to a film or read a book to my child I want them to be entertained and I'll be so as a result. I don't need your crass 'adult' remarks, I'm good thanks.
Anyway, as I was saying reading proper, good literature is just such a treat and one I could gorge on forever and ever. Far from being a Mumsnetter obsessing over which reading level my child is and how thrilled I am that my 8 month featus is on Turquoise books, I'll weep when I'm no longer required to have bedtime snuggles and reading time - learning to read is one thing, but please don't make me stop reading just yet.
I'm reading Matilda to Rosie right now and once again I'm being hit on a nightly basis by Roald Dahl's mesmerising talent - his way with words that inspires, intrigues and just gets you whilst simultaneously being ridiculously silly and hilariously funny. Dahl's books are just such a joy to read, for adults and children alike but not in the way that some films and books have "lots in their for the adults too". In fact I hate hearing that so-called 'praise' for a film or book (and it's usually for a film - part of the tag line of the hugely expensive PR machine) as it usually means there's a heap of sloppy, cheap innuendos for the grown-ups to enjoy whilst their children look on bemused. I'm of the thinking that if I go to a film or read a book to my child I want them to be entertained and I'll be so as a result. I don't need your crass 'adult' remarks, I'm good thanks.
Anyway, as I was saying reading proper, good literature is just such a treat and one I could gorge on forever and ever. Far from being a Mumsnetter obsessing over which reading level my child is and how thrilled I am that my 8 month featus is on Turquoise books, I'll weep when I'm no longer required to have bedtime snuggles and reading time - learning to read is one thing, but please don't make me stop reading just yet.
Thursday, 12 January 2012
My latest for Tesco Magazine
You can read at Tesco Magazine online here
Are you pledging to turn over a new leaf and shed those extra Christmas pounds? Fitness enthusiast and blogger Phoebe Doyle talks about the mood-boosting benefits of regular exercise.
Making resolutions is pointless; over 75% of them are cast aside within weeks leaving us feeling disappointed and even more despondent than before.
The problem is these once-a-year gym fanatics usually have weight loss as their target and this is riddled with obstacles. Firstly, when people embark on a training regime they often feel hungrier and eat more because they feel they deserve to do so.
Secondly weight loss goals take an age as muscle weight can distort things and fat is notoriously stubborn to shift. Once the goal isn’t being met it’s inevitable that the person becomes downhearted. Asking themselves: “What’s the point?”
I’m not a stranger to weight-loss goals – I’m only human and a female one at that. But I know that a target of shifting half a stone won’t get you to the gym at dawn. A stronger incentive is the mood boost – the feeling exercise can offer.
When it comes to exercise and mood there’s some serious biology at play. Exercise decreases the stress hormones, such as cortisol, and increases endorphins. Endorphins are the body’s natural feel-good chemicals, and when they are released through exercise, your mood is boosted naturally. As well as endorphins, exercise also releases adrenaline, serotonin, and dopamine.
The first time you hit the gym or pound the pavements you’ll come back energised. It may seem bizarre that spending energy actually means you end up with more but, trust me, you do.
Now with two young children exercise also offers me an excuse to escape. Friends will often ask me how I find the will-power, the motivation. Are you kidding? Clearly your squabbles over breakfast cereals are far more interesting than they are at our place!
The escape issue isn’t just about chore-avoidance though. When I exercise, I can think. I get ideas for work, plan what needs to be done and the clear-headedness I experience through time on my own – dare I say ‘me time’? – allows me to draw conclusions to issues that have previously appeared un-resolvable.
So for me exercise is a boost, a natural high and a good excuse to escape. This year instead of hopping onto the scales when you get back from the gym, just ask yourself: “How do I feel?”
Gorgeous Bedroom Furniture
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| GLTC Hampton Single Bed now £239.20 |
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| Kids Bedroom Furniture from bedroomfurniture.co.uk this Cotswold bed £168.98 |
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| Sophia chest of drawers from John Lewis £450 |
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Bedroom Furniture from Fairway Furniture (Devon, Plymouth, Cornwall & Exeter)blanket box £199.00 |
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| GLTC toddler bedside table now £36 |
Tuesday, 10 January 2012
Does it fly for you?
When my eldest was born people would tell me that "time will fly" to "make the most of it".
I'd nod politely but inside I'd be screaming "fly??" as in fast? Are you kidding?
Much as I adored being a new Mum, with my dream daughter who I couldn't stop staring at, breathing in, and talking about, time did not fly.
First there was the new pace. No rushing off to work at 7am. No running around all day, barely having time to eat or wee. No swooping off the A1 to go to the gym on the way home and rushing home to cook tea before working in the evening and off to bed. None of that. Instead this new pace, where a whole day (which began before 5am) could consist of a trip to a shop or a walk round the block to get her to sleep.
Then of course came the nights. Nights awake breast-feeding; whilst I may look back with warped nostalgia - this doesn't make for "time flying". Far better to sleep, dream, wake. That makes for a really fast night.
It's now though that I'm starting to feel the "time flying" phenomena; and to be honest I don't like it. I hate it. Stop it time. Slow down for godsakes. Whether it's Rosie with her suddenly gangley legs that don't fit into her school trousers I bought just last month, or Charles with his face that's loosing the babyness, or when their sleeping becomes a constant reminder that I still haven't done that trip to IKEA for a bigger bed for Rosie as Charles needs to get out of that cot now! With all of this comes a sadness, one which is brushed with pride admittedly - they aren't my babies, they're children, fast growing children and time? It's flying.
I'd nod politely but inside I'd be screaming "fly??" as in fast? Are you kidding?
Much as I adored being a new Mum, with my dream daughter who I couldn't stop staring at, breathing in, and talking about, time did not fly.
First there was the new pace. No rushing off to work at 7am. No running around all day, barely having time to eat or wee. No swooping off the A1 to go to the gym on the way home and rushing home to cook tea before working in the evening and off to bed. None of that. Instead this new pace, where a whole day (which began before 5am) could consist of a trip to a shop or a walk round the block to get her to sleep.
Then of course came the nights. Nights awake breast-feeding; whilst I may look back with warped nostalgia - this doesn't make for "time flying". Far better to sleep, dream, wake. That makes for a really fast night.
It's now though that I'm starting to feel the "time flying" phenomena; and to be honest I don't like it. I hate it. Stop it time. Slow down for godsakes. Whether it's Rosie with her suddenly gangley legs that don't fit into her school trousers I bought just last month, or Charles with his face that's loosing the babyness, or when their sleeping becomes a constant reminder that I still haven't done that trip to IKEA for a bigger bed for Rosie as Charles needs to get out of that cot now! With all of this comes a sadness, one which is brushed with pride admittedly - they aren't my babies, they're children, fast growing children and time? It's flying.
Monday, 9 January 2012
Teas in Ten - My feature for Child Care
Healthy Teas In Ten
Ever feel like you’re chosen career is synonymous with keeping so many balls in the air you think you missed your true vocation in the circus? Phoebe Doyle offers some tips for getting mouths fed with healthy, nutritious grub in spite of the mayhem.
Providing healthy meals for the children in our care is a priority high on most professional’s list. When we feel the pressures of school runs running over time, toddlers throwing un-timely tantrums and tiresome arguments over toys, we are left with nothing but a stomach full of guilt as we serve up hurried food we deem un-fit for the children’s palates, never mind their growing bodies.
Nutritionist Judy More (www.child-nutrition.co.uk) says the secret lies in what you buy; “choosing good quality ingredients through a basic knowledge of which foods are nutritious means you will be able to combine ingredients in numerous ways, quickly and simply”. In her book Teach Yourself Feeding Your Toddler Judy offers a section on ‘meals you can toss together from your cupboard and fridge’, most of which can be done simply and remarkably quickly; many in minutes. “Children like foods they are familiar with so be persistent” she says, “so let them have a wide variety from an early age “. Far from encouraging food snobbery Judy More reassures; “beans on toast is a good meal, when accompanied with raw carrot sticks and followed by a piece of fruit and a yoghurt, it’s incredibly nutritious”.
As a mother I am no stranger to worrying about my own children’s nutrition intake and have felt tremendous guilt around their mealtimes as a regular occurrence since becoming a parent five years ago. Now with two little ones, with extraordinarily insatiable appetites, yet annoyingly disparate tastes, I employ some tried and tested strategies to help me fill their hungry tums in ten minutes flat; with healthy, nutrient packed food that’s both scrumptious and satisfying in equal measures.
Ice Magic – Use the Freezer!
Frozen food has a huge stigma attached, but it needn’t be inferior. Breads freeze superbly and so you can keep a great assortment from crumpets to croissants. Fish is fab too from the freezer and babies and children love it, especially if it is served from an early age. Frozen veg can be just as nutritious as fresh, and so so easy. Don’t just stick to peas, broaden your horizons; I love frozen sweet potatoes and butternut squash – fantastic for super-quick soups. And on days when you are being a domestic goddess extraordinaire make two of what you cook; bolognaise, lasagnes, fish pies all freeze brilliantly and it’s almost as easy to make double the quantities. Then when you are running against the clock just some simple defrosting and heating and voila!
Think Nigella’s Larder – Keep Stocked Up
OK, this may be slightly over ambitious, particularly if like me Nigella Lawson’s store cupboard is the size of your dining room. However even the smallest of kitchens can hold the basics. Never be without tins of lentils, kidney beans and oily fish like sardines. Dried pasta, rice, noodles, cous cous and quinoa are all quick, easy and loved by kids.
Who Said Sandwiches are Boring?
When it comes to simple and easy you can’t get much better than a sandwich. Judy More offer’s some tempting filling ideas;
liver pâté or liver sausage
peanut butter with mashed banana or jam
1 tbsp drained tinned tuna with 1 tsp mayonnaise and 1 tsp plain yoghurt
1 tbsp tinned sardines with a squeeze lemon juice
1 tbsp of smoked fish such as smoked mackerel or smoked trout mixed with 1/2 tbsp of plain yoghurt and 1/2 tbsp of mayonnaise
fish pâtés such as mackerel or salmon pâté
slices smoked salmon
mashed avacado
1 tbsp hummus mixed with 1/2 tbsp finely diced red pepper
Child Labour – Not always a bad thing!
From an early age children are usually desperate to get stuck in helping in the kitchen. The ‘help’ my two offer at present results in me spending twice as long cleaning up after, particularly when my son insists on washing up!
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Psssst!!! For when you just don’t have ten!
Far be it from me to become an advocate of ready meals. As a rule I cannot stand the idea of feeding our youngsters a diet of pre-prepared and packaged food, produced in quantities which the mere thought of makes my stomach turn.
Meet the exception to my rule. The Little Dish Company (www.littledish.co.uk) make unbelievably delicious meals for over ones. In 2006 Hillary Graves co-founded the company with her business partner John Stapleton. Little Dish makes the only range of fresh, healthy food for babies, toddlers and young children made with 100% natural ingredients and no added salt or sugar. They say; “our products replicate what parents make in their own kitchens - fresh, healthy meals which are kept in the refrigerator, not the cupboard”, adding; “the overriding mission of the company is to encourage as many children as possible to eat fresh, nutritious food from an early age”.
There’s a fabulous sophisticated selection to choose from, most of which my son and I have shamelessly worked our way through. Whilst I wouldn’t want my little ones eating packaged food too regularly, they are my saviour when every now and then I am truly stuck. Just try and resist tucking in too; mmmm, I’m a fan!
And for the teeny ones…
Pre-prepared baby foods usually look far from appealing, and pureeing your own is pretty easy and definitely best. But if you are in a rush and need to grab something in an instant, one of the best of the bunch has to be the range from Plum Baby. Founder Susie Willis says; ““people often think that baby food needs to be bland, but here at Plum taste is paramount and we are proud of creating adult style recipes, with the best and sometimes unusual ingredients, that meet all the nutritional requirements of growing little ones.” Plum offer baby meals, snacks and sauces; with differing textures and tastes a-plenty.
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Snacks in Secs
Chopped raw veg and hummus dip
Bought falafel
Popcorn
Mini-pitta breads and dips
Cubed fruit on kebab sticks
Chunks of cheese
Mixed dried fruit
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BOOKS TO ARM YOURSELF WITH
Teach Yourself Feeding Your Toddler by Judy More
The Big Book of Recipes for Babies, Toddlers and Children by Judy Moore
Top 100 Finger Foods by Annabel Karmel
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Here are some tips from Little Dish
· Don’t make a fuss if certain foods are refused, sometimes it’s just a case of trying again another day. In fact, sometimes it can take as many as five times before you’re successful.
· Encourage your little ones to try new foods. Even if they don’t like it, the fact that they tried it is worth praise in itself. And often they surprise themselves when they find they actually do like it!
· Get your children involved in the cooking. Let them add an ingredient or do some mixing so their interest is peaked for the end result.
· New foods will always go down better when little ones are hungry, so try not to let them fill up on too many snacks in between meal times.
Thursday, 5 January 2012
Now for our gifts!!
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Kipling Bags from Collectables this one now £39.00 |
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| Striped circular scarf from People Tree now £8 |
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Champagne Gifts from Gifts International |
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| Autograph from M&S Women's PJ top £16.00 |
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| Jute bangle from People Tree now £6.00 |
Did I say that?
Please see below for a ridiculous, irritating post, full of Christmas wine-soaked mush about how I'm going to come over all martyr this January - my most dreaded of months.
Well, I didn't do badly. I got until about midnight last night. Believe it or not, better than in previous years, but admittedly, I have turned out to show slightly less Blitz Spirit, or whatever those wannabe-stoic-Brits refer to, than I'd planned on.
I know it wasn't a hurricane, I know we're not in a state of natural disaster, I know worse things happen at sea, and on land for that matter, and blah blah blah-de-blah but last night was so noisy! This little Victorian terrace was creaking, banging and - a new one, saved especially to test me it would seem - whistling. Yes my house whistles. Get me.
So all this house percussion and tune-making meant no sleep for me and little for the children. When I 'awoke', or rather 'gave up', I came down to see the garden was now open-plan with our neighbours. I was very tired, but I could have sworn there was a fence there before.
Then the school run. First one of this year and we were blown and drowned along the way. All the parents were saying, "happy new year" to oneanother, as did I, with tones ranging from sarcasam to dispair.
Anyway we are going somewhere now, can't be sure where - too tired to think - but it's definitly somewhere with an espresso machine.
Oh and Happy New Year!
Well, I didn't do badly. I got until about midnight last night. Believe it or not, better than in previous years, but admittedly, I have turned out to show slightly less Blitz Spirit, or whatever those wannabe-stoic-Brits refer to, than I'd planned on.
I know it wasn't a hurricane, I know we're not in a state of natural disaster, I know worse things happen at sea, and on land for that matter, and blah blah blah-de-blah but last night was so noisy! This little Victorian terrace was creaking, banging and - a new one, saved especially to test me it would seem - whistling. Yes my house whistles. Get me.
So all this house percussion and tune-making meant no sleep for me and little for the children. When I 'awoke', or rather 'gave up', I came down to see the garden was now open-plan with our neighbours. I was very tired, but I could have sworn there was a fence there before.
Then the school run. First one of this year and we were blown and drowned along the way. All the parents were saying, "happy new year" to oneanother, as did I, with tones ranging from sarcasam to dispair.
Anyway we are going somewhere now, can't be sure where - too tired to think - but it's definitly somewhere with an espresso machine.
Oh and Happy New Year!
Wednesday, 4 January 2012
Face the Chill
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| Joules women's fluffy socks £7.95 |
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| Women's Jumper from Boden now £40 |
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| Helly Hansen from Outdoor GB this top now £43.92 |
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| Joules Women's coat £129 |
Birmingham Children's Hospital
Next week we'll return to Birmingham Children's Hospital where, just over 2 years ago, we were referred to with Charles - our then 1 year old - to have a look at his head. Basically his soft spot had closed and he'd developed a ridge down his forehead.
Needless to say, at first this was all terrifying. I'd gone originally to my GP hoping (and I think actually assuming) that she'd say all that about me being a protective mother - the stuff she'd said when I'd taken Rosie when she was a baby with the sniffles for the 7th time. Unfortunately she didn't, and had me see a Paediatrician within a week or so.
Again I felt this was a precautionary measure and he'd say it's all fine, all normal, off you pop, no worries. He didn't. He referred us to BCH and we went within a couple of weeks.
By this stage the fear had set in. The what ifs? The whys? The obsessive googling and sleepless nights, that are part and parcel of when your child has 'something wrong with them', swept over us.
On our first visit though we were reassured. He wasn't so bad that he'd need surgery - the specialist, of course, had seen it all before - he said come back in 6 months and we'll xray him again to measure progress but basically the message was good. We went back - much less worried this time - and yep everything was OK. We were told to come back in a couple of years to see how things are. So here we are.
I think things are fine. I'm pretty sure he'll be OK. His language is coming on slowly - language is one of the things they said might be a problem - but it's coming on. The thing is though, what these gentle strokes with medicine, health and your child give you is an overwhelming sense of gratefulness of what you have - coupled with a gut-wrenching, sick making fear of what could be. When I go to the children's hospital, I'll try to focus only on us. But what'll happen, what always happens, is I'll notice the slightness of the children roaming the hospital in pyjamas, I'll see their parents working so hard to smile, I'll look at the children being transported around in dressing gowns and I'll have the most selfish, guilt-inducing interior dialogue; "thank God that's not us".
So when we bring him home, and hopefully we'll be OK, and we're sat in traffic and we're moaning about that - I'm going to think of those parents with their courageous smiles and promise to never, ever, never take a thing for granted.
Needless to say, at first this was all terrifying. I'd gone originally to my GP hoping (and I think actually assuming) that she'd say all that about me being a protective mother - the stuff she'd said when I'd taken Rosie when she was a baby with the sniffles for the 7th time. Unfortunately she didn't, and had me see a Paediatrician within a week or so.
Again I felt this was a precautionary measure and he'd say it's all fine, all normal, off you pop, no worries. He didn't. He referred us to BCH and we went within a couple of weeks.
By this stage the fear had set in. The what ifs? The whys? The obsessive googling and sleepless nights, that are part and parcel of when your child has 'something wrong with them', swept over us.
On our first visit though we were reassured. He wasn't so bad that he'd need surgery - the specialist, of course, had seen it all before - he said come back in 6 months and we'll xray him again to measure progress but basically the message was good. We went back - much less worried this time - and yep everything was OK. We were told to come back in a couple of years to see how things are. So here we are.
I think things are fine. I'm pretty sure he'll be OK. His language is coming on slowly - language is one of the things they said might be a problem - but it's coming on. The thing is though, what these gentle strokes with medicine, health and your child give you is an overwhelming sense of gratefulness of what you have - coupled with a gut-wrenching, sick making fear of what could be. When I go to the children's hospital, I'll try to focus only on us. But what'll happen, what always happens, is I'll notice the slightness of the children roaming the hospital in pyjamas, I'll see their parents working so hard to smile, I'll look at the children being transported around in dressing gowns and I'll have the most selfish, guilt-inducing interior dialogue; "thank God that's not us".
So when we bring him home, and hopefully we'll be OK, and we're sat in traffic and we're moaning about that - I'm going to think of those parents with their courageous smiles and promise to never, ever, never take a thing for granted.
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