Tiffany Rose Review

Tiffany Rose Alicia Nursing dress

Trying to find comfortable and pretty clothes to breastfeed in is a challenge! Something that's beautiful, well cut and flattering, I thought almost impossible! After searching the high street and finding a few maxi dresses or jersey wrap dresses, I found that these were mainly general day wear and I couldn't find anything suitable for an occasion. I had 2 weddings to attend and a family photoshoot planned. I was becoming a little anxious. After speaking to a fellow blogger (Monkeyfootedmummy) I was introduced to Tiffany Rose.

A UK based company, everything on their website is either suitable for maternity, nursing or both.

I sent a quick email to enquire about their range of nursing dresses and received the best customer service. Prompt, responsive, helpful emails regarding the cut and fit of their dresses, colours, fit and length. Being petite, I often find it to be a challenge shopping online for dresses, but their size guide made it really simple and recommendations were made by Tiffany Rose staff. After browsing their range, I opted for a simple, beautifully cut Eclipse blue Alicia Nursing Dress. Their customer service is the best I've ever received from an online company (and I shop a lot online!)

The Alicia dress is well cut and compliments the frame and figure of a new mum. It includes a panel for nursing. The dress is comfortable to wear and has a beautiful 'swish' effect when you walk. The fabric hangs well and I received lots of compliments on the dress.

http://www.tiffanyrose.com/maternity/clothing/ALINDE/Alicia-Nursing-Dress-Eclipse-Blue.html

Priced at £99, the dress is on the higher end of the budget for new mums, but it's a perfect dress for many occasions and can be accessorised differently each time to create new looks; it's a fab investment piece! It also comes in a beautiful red colour.

There are plans for further nursing dresses in the range and I'll be keen to try those out too! I'd love to see some pretty florals for spring and perhaps some Jersey type dresses for day wear in pretty styles. It's been such a challenge finding a suitable dress, but I'm so glad that I was introduced to Tiffany Rose! 

Bling, a band and an overjoyed auntie!

After months of secret planning, alongside my mam and Gary. Auntie Cathy's party was taking shape; that morning we dressed the room in purple so that it was fit for a queen! Pretty table centres in tall vases, rose petals, banners, sweetie jars with favours, a bit of bling here and there! No less for my favourite auntie! It follows my motto of, "If you're going to do something, overdo it!"

Keeping it a secret had been a challenge, she's like Miss Marple and wants to know the ins and outs of everything! However we pulled it off and I've no idea how. Gary must be glad that he's no longer got to be so secretive! 

Seeing her walk into the room and the look of shock and overwhelming joy was incredible. I mean, she's only been celebrating for the last month with weekends away, meals and nights out, but she didn't anticipate this at all. She'd even commented that she was glad all of the celebrations were over...

The entertainment for the evening was provided by The Waiters. A fab band, gaining stature and a reputation for good music. Young and energetic, with a good repertoire of songs, they were guaranteed to have the crowd up dancing. With songs spanning over the decades, they were a hit with everyone in the room and with being fresh from the Metro Radio Live gig; there was a lovely buzz around the room about them. Although they're due to hit the big time, they seem very grounded and down to earth. A fab night had by all!

Should I breastfeed my baby in public?

This week, our media in the UK has been dominated by a story of a breastfeeding mum who was asked to use a napkin in order to feed in a discrete manner in Claridge's. From the images I've seen, this mum was more discrete whilst not using a cover. 

I feed my child in public, anywhere and everywhere; public transport, restaurants, baby groups, the homes of friends and family, the list is endless. My baby is a frequent feeder and at 5 months, this is his only sustenance. He is thriving on my milk and I'll continue to feed him when he needs it. I never cover my child, I tried in the early days, but he'd fuss, pull it off and refuse to feed. I will not be dictated to about the manner or the places that I should feed.

When I first had Isaac, I was incredibly self conscious and used to seek out very quiet places to feed. However, with a toddler in tow, this was somewhat problematic. I tried out a few feeding rooms, but these were often situated alongside changing units and were smelly and unhygienic! Now, I tend to find a comfy seat or a cafe to feed. 

Today, I've viewed an article in The Sun Newspaper. The article discussed the mum feeding in Claridge's and made references to this incident, suggesting that breastfeeding is like urinating, that you should do it in private. NO! Mums are more than capable of feeding in a discrete manner, therefore they can feed whenever, wherever! Breastfeeding is NOT like urinating. Breastfeeding is simply the act of sustaining your child with breastmilk, whereas urinating is removing a toxic substance from the body.

I now suggest that whoever penned this absolute nonsense at The Sun should take their lunch, set up in the loo and enjoy! In the meantime, I'll continue to feed my baby discretely regardless of where I am!

Prima Baby Awards 2015

At one month after Isaac's operation, he was healing well (despite a few episodes of bleeding from his cleft side nostril due to Row, Row, Row your boat related incidents with his big brother!) 

We were invited down to London for the day to visit the Prima Baby office and judge at the prestigious Prima Baby Awards. I was excited and did lots of research on the categories we'd been allocated for our day of judging! 

Excitedly, with a skinny latte in hand and Isaac in my Connecta sling, I travelled from Newcastle down to Kings Cross on the 7.04 direct Flying Scotsman service. Isaac slept and fed most of the journey. It was trouble free and I was able to continue to glance over my product notes and relax. It's an odd feeling not having a toddler in tow, I continually looked around frantically looking for Little Mr Energetic; anticipating a chat about diggers and trucks! I've got to admit, the silence was bliss! (Sorry to my husband being left with aforementioned toddler...)

When we arrived at Kings Cross, we were greeted by one of the writers, Alison and travelled over to the office by car. Arriving at the office was quite overwhelming. I'd spoken to Alex, the deputy editor on phone a few times and it felt like I was meeting a friend. The other judges had arrived and began to look through and discuss the products.

We met the other judges, several known names in the baby world and a few readers of the magazine who'd applied and been selected. Such a lovely bunch! The day passed by with a vast array of baby paraphernalia to be put to the test (unfortunately I'll not be revealing any spoilers, but I assure you, there were so many wonderful products put through their paces!) I'm hoping to do some review writing on my blog about some of these lovely products after Christmas. 

After a long day of reviewing. I was invited to choose some products to take home! Wow, so many beautiful things to choose from! With a couple of additional bags to carry, I was set for my return journey home and informed that some additional products for judging would be sent out to me in order to give further feedback on! I love a freebie! 

A delayed train and a tired baby weren't a good combination for the journey home! Isaac eventually relaxed and cluster fed for the majority of the journey home, with a few breaks to nap. 

We had an amazing day and it was an honour to be there! I now have a wish list of products that I NEED! A big thanks to Prima Baby and Pregnancy Magazine for inviting me along!

Connecta Baby Carrier

I'd been seeking out a new sling and researching thoroughly. After using a stretchy Close Caboo from birth, I wanted a more structured carrier which had buckles to support my growing boy. After searching online, I came across Connecta, they appeared to have a good standing in the world of Baby-wearing and with their vast waiting lists, they're very popular!

I'd fallen in love with the print of Zoology after seeing some local mums carrying their babies. I'm fairly new to babywearing, but I know a pretty print when I see one! We love African animals in our house, you could say that we're obsessed (we honeymooned in Kenya and are keen visitors to zoos in the UK!)

The print is beautiful and bright. As soon as it arrived, I couldn't resist testing it out. After reading the simple instructions, I chose a basic front carry. Isaac was snug and settled and I'm sure it had magic sleepy dust packaged with it, as he fell asleep almost instantly! Even my toddler, Noah had to have a turn. Although it's baby sized (toddler ones are available too) he's still petite and fit perfectly. I've not attempted a back carry yet, but will be trying this out in the future. It would be a good investment and a fantastic gift for new parents.

Whilst wearing the Connecta, I'm able to do jobs around the house, tend to both boys and multitask. It makes life so much easier.

The carrier is well made, with fantastic and accurate stitching and is quick and easy to put on. I think I'll be investing in some different designs too. I've also been researching the Solarweave; a fantastic carrier for sunshine holidays, as it has UV protection and is lightweight.

Connecta integras are priced from £62 and available from www.connectababycarrier.com/product-category/connecta-integra/in-stock/

Preparing for Isaac's operation; 2 months to go!

Last week, we had a meeting with a member of the surgery team to brief us about Isaac's operation. They've confirmed that it will be taking place on 5th November at RVI Newcastle.

They explained a lot about the operation and that we'll have a short hospital stay. We also met the dentist and orthodontist, as Isaac's teeth may not follow a normal growth pattern due to the gap in his gum.

I'll be staying with Isaac throughout and Alex will be back and forth and seeing to Noah. I have faith in the surgeons, their reputation goes before them. However, I'm a little worried about him going under anaesthetic with him being so small.

He's doing very well and meeting the  usual milestones; smiling, holding up his own head and tracking you with his eyes across the room. He's a happy and contented soul and we've all fallen in love with him. It'll be strange after his operation, as we'll have to get used to his 'new' smile. We love his beautiful, big cleft smile and I think we'll miss it when it's gone! I never thought I'd say that when we received our diagnosis at our 20 week scan!

"Oh my God, she's got her boob out in the park!"

Feeding your child is a personal choice; I choose to breast feed. With my first child, we had many issues with feeding; latch issues, jaundice and illness, I ended up expressing my milk and bottle feeding for 14 months. Crazy to some; but this shows my dedication and reflects the way in which I value breast milk.

This time round, we weren't sure if baby would be able to latch due to his cleft lip. However, he surprised us all and he has been nursing like a champ! I'm so proud of him and will happily feed him; whenever, wherever!

Today, we've visited a local park and farm and I've encountered my first negative comment regarding feeding. Two women clearly shocked that, "some people still do THAT!" and stating, "Oh my God, she's got her boob out in the park!" These comments were not appreciated. I try not to judge people for bottle feeding formula, that's their choice as a parent. However, I don't appreciate being judged for breast feeding. There's often comments about breast feeders judging formula feeders, but I've actually encountered the reverse. It's not always an easy journey as a breast feeder, and in my opinion, they should be praised, not condescended or patronised!

Those people who know me personally will be very surprised to hear that I kept my cool and just shook my head at their ignorance (I've been told I'm a bit of a Hitler in my lack of patience with stupid people!) Yes, really I did! A witty retort didn't come to me quickly, instead I just continued to feed my son (perhaps a little more brazenly!)

Welcome to the world Isaac Alexander

After a challenging 38 weeks, our beautiful Isaac Alexander arrived on 1/7/14 at 6.29am, weighing 6lb 4oz. An amazing addition to our family!

The story leading up to his birth will be published in a series of columns in Prima Baby and Pregnancy magazine over the next few months. The edition this month covers Noah's pregnancy and birth and our decision to have another child.

The magazine is available to buy in retailers such as Asda, Morrisons and WH Smith. There are also some fab deals on subscriptions available.

Sharing your love with two children

The choice to have baby number 2 isn't a one that should be taken lightly. You need to ensure many things; financial stability, security in the foundations of your relationship with your partner and moreover, knowing that you'll have the support network to 'cope' with bringing another little life into the world.

However recently, in a largely hormonal state; I've got to thinking and had doubts in my mind (bit late now, at 37 weeks!) How will I share my love between 2 children? I adore my first born; I've done everything in my power to make a happy life for him, I've been there for every one of his firsts, I've left a job I've loved, for a far more important role, being mam and I've thoroughly enjoyed the times we've spent just the two of us. Although very soon, that will change. I'll see him, alongside his baby brother and know that it's not just 'me and my boy' any longer. There'll be two beautiful boys!

Now, I know that we're truly blessed, but I can't help but feel guilty that he'll not have my undivided attention any longer; we'll not have the times like we used to. The guilt knowing that baby will need a lot of TLC and additional support is quite overwhelming and I hope my first born will adapt and enjoys the company of his brother; while developing a positive relationship and a lifelong friendship.

With all these woes, I came across this poem;

Loving Two

I walk along holding your 2-year-old hand, basking in the glow of our magical relationship. Suddenly I feel a kick from within, as if to remind me that our time alone is limited. And I wonder: how could I ever love another child as I love you?

Then he is born, and I watch you. I watch the pain you feel at having to share me as you’ve never shared me before.

I hear you telling me in your own way, “Please love only me”. And I hear myself telling you in mine, “I can’t”, knowing, in fact, that I never can again.

You cry. I cry with you. I almost see our new baby as an intruder on the precious relationship we once shared. A relationship we can never quite have again.

But then, barely noticing, I find myself attached to that new being, and feeling almost guilty. I’m afraid to let you see me enjoying him, as though I am betraying you.

But then I notice your resentment change, first to curiosity, then to protectiveness, finally to genuine affection.

More days pass, and we are settling into a new routine. The memory of days with just the two of us is fading fast.

But something else is replacing those wonderful times we shared, just we two. There are new times – only now, we are three. I watch the love between you grow, the way you look at each other, touch each other.

I watch how he adores you – as I have for so long. I see how excited you are by each of his new accomplishments. And I begin to realize that I haven’t taken something from you, I’ve given something to you. I notice that I am no longer afraid to share my love openly with both of you.

I find that my love for each of you is as different as you are, but equally strong. And my question is finally answered, to my amazement. Yes, I can love another child as much as I love you – only differently.

And although I realize that you may have to share my time, I now know you’ll never share my love. There’s enough of that for both of you – you each have your own supply.

I love you – both. And I thank you both for blessing my life.
Author Unknown

Life is about to change once again. I just hope that my first born adapts and realises that there's enough love for two!

CLAPA Fundraising

Just an update! We have continued to raise awareness and funds for Cleft Lip And Palate Association (CLAPA). Our first event, an evening at Tavistock Retro, South Shields was a resounding success. The venue provided us with the most amazing tapas (which was complimented by all!) Sean Kilmartin was the perfect host and the room was dressed to perfection by Totally Reem Chair Covers! The entertainment by Grace Davison and Terry Slesser was second to none. A great night had by all! The raffle was well received with many fabulous prizes donated by friends, family and local businesses.

Our second event was a children's party at St Simon's Community Project, with entertainment provided by DP Entertainments and a candy cart provided by Tyne and Wear Candy Carts were very popular. The party games, candy cart and tombola were particular favourites with the children!

In total, for both events we have raised a grand total of £1100! We are so appreciative of all those businesses and individuals who've donated prizes and their time and effort for the cause. We could not have achieved this without your support. We've had great fun raising money for CLAPA and are very much looking forward to the arrival of our son in around 4 weeks time!

Parental responsibility

To me, being a parent means that the child that you choose to bring into the world is your responsibility. When I had Noah, I made the choice to look after him and raise him the way in which we chose, as parents, along with the support of our family and friends.

When he was first born, everyone was keen to meet him and to help out; but I felt that this was my time to bond with my child; to learn his cries and cues of feeding, to snuggle with him, get to know him and for him to begin to understand who his mother is. He spent most of the first month of his life having skin to skin contact; tucked in, down my top (which caused much humour to my family!)

Inevitably, you do become exhausted, but that's all part of your early journey as a parent. For the first few months of Noah's life, he fed almost hourly and with reflux, he was continually sick and it was a challenge! My husband did as much as he could, but with working full time and long hours, it was mainly my role. Many people offered to have him in order to give me a rest, but I believe that he's my child, my responsibility. He'd have had a challenge feeding without me there to provide milk anyway!

Due to Noah's small size and inability to latch, I was expressing breast milk around every 2-3 hours around the clock (getting up through the night when the boys were happily snoring certainly wasn't fun!) To me, it was essential and something that I've always been passionate about. A baby's 'perfect food', made specifically for their needs, not some processed substance with additives and things that could irritate his little tummy. I'll be doing the same again for baby number 2. Due to his cleft, it's highly unlikely that he'll be able to latch, so another journey of expressing breast milk begins...

Noah has recently turned 2 and in that time, he's had 2 nights away from us. Once for a friend's birthday, where he stayed with my sister when he was about 1 and another occasion, at around 17 months where we attended a close friend's wedding and he stayed with my mum. They've offered to have him multiple times, however I've refused. He's my child; both day and night. I know lots of couples who go away on weekends and holidays away without their child, but he's part of us. Noah's had multiple family holidays abroad and several UK short breaks and I wouldn't feel comfortable leaving him behind.

Don't get me wrong, I think having time as a couple is important; having a date night to grab a bite to eat or to view a film, but I happily return to attend to my child's needs. Perhaps you'd call it attachment parenting or 'traditional', but it just feels right for our family. I love the bond that we have, I'm far from a perfect parent, but I am the parent I choose to be! What's your opinion?

CLAPA Charity event 25th May 2014, Tavistock Retro, South Shields

Apologies for the lack of blog recently! I've been busy; firstly, getting my head around so many facts and information about Cleft Lip and Palate, attending hospital appointments, dealing with family life, planning my son's 2nd birthday party, as well as organising a charity event! The charity event will raise money for Cleft Lip and Palate Association, more commonly known as CLAPA.

It's to be held on 25th May, so a little after the awareness week (Awareness Week is 10th-17th May). Therefore, we've more time  to gather further prizes and plan ahead to make it an amazing event for all who attend! Already, we've had so many offers of donations for raffle prizes from local businesses and from friends and family. Raffle prizes include; several restaurant meal vouchers, multiple hairdressers, local bakeries, as well as individuals offering alcohol and toiletries for hampers.

My friends and family have been a real support; especially two special people, Michelle and Elle, who've been wonderful in supporting the cause, gathering numerous prizes, keeping me on track and securing many amazing things for the evening!

There seems to be a lot of people willing to help out to support the cause. We've already got a wonderful room decoration company  lined up to provide chair covers and table centres; Totally Reem Chair Covers will have the room looking amazing in no time! We have been offered the services of a local photographer Graeme Stark, who will once again provide us with some amazing images of the evening; these will be available to purchase online after the event! A local cake shop (and a favourite of mine; yes, a girl's got to have good shoes and cake!) Cake My Day has kindly offered to make us some mini cupcakes for the evening. Thanks Carla Gray! The venue, Tavistock Retro, South Shields has been amazing in so many ways; Sean Kilmartin has been incredibly supportive and we are all looking forward to celebrating this evening in his fabulous establishment!

We're busy sourcing entertainment for the evening and have confirmed the beautiful Grace Davison to open our evening with her amazing voice and Terry Slesser, a well known local singer, will entertain us as the evening progresses!

It's shaping up to be a great night. Tickets are selling fast, there's only 30 remaining! So I'd advise you to preorder ASAP! Now, the greatest task of all ensues; sourcing a suitable maternity dress for the event! Wish me luck!

Happy International Women's Day!

Today is International Women's Day. In honour of this, I'd like to celebrate my own wonderful mother!

My mother, Lynne hasn't always had it easy in life; she's had many stumbling blocks and challenges along the way. She's experienced the loss of loved ones, divorce and ill health. However, this has not broken her; it has merely moulded her into the strong, beautiful and family orientated woman who I have the pleasure to call 'mam'.

She's been a great support throughout a problematic pregnancy with my first born, Noah and continues to be a key part of his life. They adore each other and bring out the very best in one another. Even if he does leave a trail of mess throughout her meticulously cleaned house!

Throughout this pregnancy, my mam has been an amazing support and is a ray of positivity. Even in uncertain and worrying circumstances, she continues to see beyond the worry and stress and is always there to listen. I am truly blessed!

Who is your inspiration?

Baby Number 2 is a BOY!

Having a baby brings a multitude of things to consider; how will I feed baby? How will baby travel? What will baby wear? How will baby bond with siblings? Where will baby sleep? The list of questions is endless! But what if it isn't plain sailing and complications and challenges arise?

From the happy moment of a positive pregnancy test, to a 12 week scan and seeing a little baby shaped blob on a screen, it can be so exciting! However, 20 week scan fills me with fear and trepidation. With my son, at 20 weeks, we were informed that he was incredibly small for dates; this could suggest IUGR (growth restriction) or chromosomal problems, such as Down's Syndrome. A worrying time followed, until a healthy, yet small, beautiful baby boy was born at 37+2. Noah was all we imagined and more, a picture of health and dainty features. I loved all 4lb 10.5oz of him with every ounce of my being and since then, this cheeky monkey has become my world.

This time, I approached a 20 week scan with caution. A beautiful baby, wriggling around on screen showed that he/she was measuring perfectly, cheekily playing with the chord and not showing us their gender. However, the look on the sonographer's face suggested that there was an issue. Calmly, she informed us that baby has a cleft lip.

My world and images of a 'perfect' baby crumbled around me, and for once; I was truly lost for words. She went on to explain that it was unilateral (one side of baby's lip) and that we'd need further investigation via a 4d scan. Baby will need an operation to correct this at around 3/4 months old and may have a multitude of issues due to the condition; feeding issues, speech and language, facial scarring, the list is ongoing.

At 21+3, we were asked to attend a 3d scan at Royal Victoria Infirmary in Newcastle. This confirmed the diagnosis; baby does have a unilateral cleft lip on the right side of the face and possibly the palate may be effected. We'll be returning in a few weeks in order to find out more. A great positive occurred at this scan though, baby's sex was confirmed; we are having a boy!

Now, this is our baby and we know that we'll love him regardless; however what fills me with dread is the reaction of others to our new bundle of joy. Explaining to family, friends and strangers on the street to why my child looks 'different' and the pitying faces when you tell them what's 'wrong' with your baby. Currently, I'm asking the questions, "Why me? Why my child? What did I do wrong?" It hurts to think of what my child will have to endure at such a young age.

While I write this, I have a very active baby wriggling and letting me know how much he needs me and his love for me. A mother's love begins while baby is in the womb. I just hope that I can come to terms with it and be confident and that my beautiful baby is accepted as he is; a fantastic new addition to our family.

Tandem or double dilemma!

I'm currently pregnant with baby number 2 and due in July. We don't know the sex of baby yet, but we're hoping to find out soon! Then comes the problem with transportation...

Darling son will have not long turned 2 when his brother or sister arrives and he's not keen on walking long distances! So I'll need either a double of a tandem. I'd prefer a tandem, as the doubles seem so wide and difficult to manoeuvre. I didn't realise that buying some new wheels could be so challenging!

There's so many factors to consider! I like the look of the Oyster Max and some of the Phil and Teds models, but I really think I need to 'test drive' before making a purchase! I need something adaptable, that I can possibly add a buggy board to at a later date.

Any recommendations would be greatly appreciated! :-)

Will you be my valentine? No thanks!

As this day is upon us, I'm always humoured by how seriously some people take Valentines day; spending extortionate amounts of money on pink and red tat! I've been with my husband for almost 13 years (unlucky for some) and for us today is just another day. On 21st February, it will be our anniversary of when we first got together and we sometimes go out to lunch to celebrate that we haven't killed each other for another year! Yes, when we were younger and first got together, we'd buy each other gifts (I think I've got some teddies with I love you hearts in the loft somewhere!) From what I've witnessed in the shops, all they stock is over commercialised tat! Don't even get me started on valentines proposals, where's your originality?!

Yesterday, I witnessed 2 men browsing at underwear in Debenhams. The over the top advertising (and 15% off!) had clearly enticed them. One was looking at some rather hideous red and black lace sets which wouldn't have looked out of place in a brothel!

Clearly, looking like a rabbit in headlights, he was approached by the shop assistant, "can I help you with anything?" Feeling a little unsure he continued to browse. She queried again, "do you know what size you're looking for?" He quickly responded, "Her boobs are about the same size as yours!" Awkward! I'm just glad I'm not his partner receiving tacky stuff from an imbecile!

So today, I won't receive a card, flowers, chocolates or any pink or red tat. Sight of relief! However, I have the knowledge that my husband loves me, he tells me this every day and that's something that money can't buy!

Is it just me, or is packing for a family holiday an Olympic operation?

We're off on holiday tomorrow and have 'finished' the packing! Or so I'd thought! Holidaying as a couple is very different to holidaying as a family. In the past, a few bikinis, shorts, t shirts and a few evenings dresses and I was done! However, it's not so simplistic with a family! This will be our 4th holiday abroad as a family, but it's still a bit of a minefield for  packing! 

The volume of things that are 'necessities' seems to extend after every trip and even a 20kg baggage allowance doesn't allow to take a train set, various Mickey Mouse toys and building blocks (his current favourite toys!) So a few books and small toys will have to suffice!

The problem arises of what to do to keep a hyperactive toddler occupied on a lengthier flight? Films, books and prayers will be required. 5 hours in a confined space with my husband is often a challenge, never mind his moaning and the needs of a toddler! Various snacks should keep them both smiling!

Before I had my son, people often talked about the 'sacrifices of being a parent'. I didn't realise that it would be half of my baggage allowance and forfeiting my hand luggage bag for a baby bag! Our next holiday will likely be with a toddler and a baby and I'm shuddering at the thought of packing already!

Right,  I'm off to decide which items of clothing I can take out of my case so that I can fit in some toy cars...wish me luck!  

My blog!

Just a brief introduction to me and what my blog will entail!

I'm Joanne, I live in the NE of England and am almost 30! I have a toddler boy, Noah who's currently 21 months. I'm pregnant with my second baby who's due in July. I'm (happily) married to Alex. I'm a qualified primary school teacher, however I'm currently looking after my son full time and do home tutoring on evenings and weekends.

Things I like;
*holidays
*sunshine
*eating out
*parenting
*humour
*spelling and grammar and identifying grammatical errors

My blog will cover aspects of my parenting and events in life, such as holidays, eating out and family time.