A-Z Challenge: E

Easter Holiday so Far

We're not even half way through and already we've done some fun holiday activities. There's been cookie baking and mixing marshmallow with rice crispies to make the most delicious crispie squares that are gluten free:

We found Easter eggs that mysteriously popped up on Easter Sunday outside our bedroom doors (which were soon devoured for breakfast!) It's okay it's Easter, I'm cool with eating chocolate on Easter morning. Christmas morning I find is also acceptable too...

We've seen the Grandparents and had a lovely roast dinner, Midge has been to the seaside to rock climb with her Auntie who is visiting from university for 3 weeks (yey!) and we've also squeezed in a friend coming to visit along with a trip to a soft play area with a fellow Mum and school friend.

Midge has had her little best buddy over again and next week we'll be meeting up with my (one and only) Mummy friend who has an adorable new baby for me to cuddle (and then hand back of course). I'm planning to build another indoor tent with the Little Ones and also do some marble painting, glop making and probably more baking!

Little A will more than likely be found on the sofa stuffing his face with whatever food he can find until further notice though..

Hope you're all having a fun Easter holiday!

CupcakeMumma

A-Z Challenge- K

K is for Kisses

I'm more of a hugger than a kisser but there are a few moments when a kiss is the only thing that will do. I like to see a kiss that shows real love. Here are a few of mine.

Little A not even 24 hours old being held by his big sister who adored him the minute he came through the door. They have their moments but I can see how close they could become in the future.

Summer of 2012 at Grandma and Pop's house. Once again showing affection towards her younger brother. I've noticed that as they get older although close, I'm not catching as many kissing photos already!

This is a typical reaction by Little A if he's just not in a kissing mood!

Sealed with a kiss. Just after our wedding day last year we had a quick smooch in the back of the car before heading off to our venue. I love this photo, it's one of my favourites from our wedding day and will always be important to me.

Sometimes kissing is reserved for your family, for your partner and yes, even some people enjoy a good smooch with the pet but me? I like to go out on the pull every now and then:

We'll never speak of this again though right?

Who do you like a good smooch with?

CupcakeMumma

A-Z Challenge: A

A is for A

Or my Little A as he is affectionately known on this blog. Little A is now 2 years old (25 months if you want to be precise) he is inquisitive, mischievous and such a little lad.

Watching Max and Ruby

Right now his favourite things are:

Max and Ruby, chocolate (and a lot of it if he had his own way!), playing musical instruments and snuggling with his blanket. He sleeps through most nights but sometimes still needs a good cuddle or half an hour in Mummy's bed before making it known he's ready to go back into his cot bed.

He's been loving Easter and enjoyed yesterdays egg hunt where he found his little chocolate bean filled bunny  in the front room. It didn't last long! I'm pleased to say Little A is very much still into having lots of Mummy cuddles. His vocabulary is really coming along and I love it when he says "love you!" before bedtime and asks for a kiss by smacking his lips together.

It's true what they say, they really do grow so fast.

CupcakeMumma

With thanks to Arlee Bird who is the founder of this fantastic blogging challenge. May I live to post another day!

Our First Sensory Dish

Oats, glitter, rice and foam shapes

2 willing children

Cups of water, spatulas and pastry brushes just some of the ideas from my Little Ones!

Using our hands to feel the textures. It was 'squidgy' and 'bitty'

Making oat castles!

We had so much fun!

A Day with Grandma and Pops!

Yesterday we had some fun with Grandma and Pops who live right by the sea (so jealous). We headed over in the morning and settled in by baking some gluten and dairy free Rice Crispie marshmallow bars which I saw on the lovely Melksham Mum's blog. They were absolutely delicious but I'm afraid we were too impatient to let the bars set! I've made some more tonight that's how addictive they are!

I started cooking dinner with my Mum when Little A popped his little self around the corner armed with his coat and shoes. Looks like someone wanted to go exploring! Midge set off first with Daddy because it took Little A and I a little longer to get ready but once we were all wrapped up it didn't take us long to find them!

We watched the seagulls trying to get some rest from the wind, waves crashing on the rocks and the boats gently bobbing about in the harbor which was closed off due to the sea becoming a bit rough. We walked almost to the bottom talking about the sea, how lovely it would be to rent a cottage for a week (or just simply live there!) before we decided to head back home and check on the roast.

Dinner was delicious. Midge had got Daddy to put a Thomas Tank DVD on for Little A and herself so we watched that whilst eating our roast in silence. Grandma served up a really, really good apple crumble (I hope she blogs it when she's ready!) covered in soya custard and cream. We didn't leave until it was almost half past five and we thought the children needed to be getting ready for bed.

We had a such a nice day and Midge was really worn out eventually going to bed and staying there until this morning. Little A unfortunately didn't have such a good night and ended up with us twice before settling again in his room. Tomorrow I'll blog about our first sensory dish we tried out before eating our tea this evening. It was actually lot of fun and Little A especially liked it. I think it brought back fun memories for Midge because we used to always do creative things together before Mummy got all stressy and uptight. Bad Mummy!!

I hope you all had a nice weekend? Are we ready for the Easter holidays!?

CupcakeMumma

My Mothering Sunday

Photo by Midge

 I had such a lovely day yesterday. It all changed a bit last minute because Husband was called and asked to play football for a rather good team so he said he'd make up the lack of breakfast in bed for a nice dinner!

The children brought me up some toast, a large card and a new pillow while I sat in bed waking up. I had some cuddles before getting up, saying goodbye to Husband and getting ready for the day. We all waited for Grandma to come so we could go over to Great Grandma's house as a surprise for Mother's Day. It was a lovely day and as an extra surprise, my Aunt and Uncle had arrived as well! I haven't seen them since my wedding so it was a lovely little family day.

We had a massive lunch and a choice of 3 desserts (I had a bit of all 3- pig!) but it was so delicious I couldn't help myself! The children found Great Grandma's special room where she meditates which fascinated them. What they really loved about the room though was it is Fleas little room to relax when there are a lot of people around.

Playing and stroking Flea

Little Man brought his trains with him and  made a point of chatting a load of nonsense, being loud and spending some quality time with his Great Uncle. It was lovely to see. Midge played and spent time looking around at Great Grandmas various treasures. She helped lay the table and was really good about eating her dinner. She was really sad to leave and asked if we were staying the night!

When we arrived home it was really nice to see Husband as I had missed him. He had a good game, had done the washing up and was all set to cook me roast when I had to break it to him I'd already had a massive roast for lunch complete with a large pudding helping! He was fine with it and put on some tea for him and some hash browns with peas for me- that was about all I could manage!

I had a lovely Mothers Day so thank-you Little Man and Midge!

xx

Ten Good Things February

It's a little late but I'm sure I can be forgiven seeing as I was busy climbing a mountain for charity when March 1st came around (and rather quickly too I might add)
I would like to share with you the top 10 things that made February special for me. This post has been linked up with Emmy Mom here.

1) I volunteered myself, (rather stupidly) to climb Mount Snowdon for Comic Relief with a bunch of other bloggers. I knew this was going to be a challenge like I have never experienced but I was up for it. What a way to kick March off hey?

2) My Little Man turned 2! It seems wrong for him to be 2 years old already but he had a lovely day with gifts, cake and a very nice meal out with just his Mummy, Daddy and big sister Midge.

3) I woke up the day after Valentines Day and was presented with a huge bouquet of flowers, a large glass of orange juice and a yummy cooked breakfast from my Husband. What's not to love about that?

4) I discovered the best dairy free chocolate spread in the world and ate so many pancakes because of this. I don't feel guilty in the slightest because these were the best pancakes I have ever consumed!

5) Midge has been doing really well with her ballet and I am so proud of her for finally feeling able to take the classes on her own like most of the other pupils there. It's taken about 7 weeks for Midge to feel okay with the fact I'm not in the same room as her. Instead, I've made sure she knows I'm just outside the door.

6) Yet again I sent out a gift to an unsuspecting friend who needed a smile put back on her face. I'm pleased to say my gift went down well and I'm still feeling optimistic about my Year in Gifts mission.

7) I went to an open day at Midge's school where I got to look through her work books. I was so proud and I can tell she's proud of herself too which is just wonderful.

8) I completed another 2 units for my Anatomy and Physiology coursework, leaving me with just 5 more units until I am ready to revise and be tested on all my knowledge (which currently is actually very little!) Still, I'm very glad I'm over half way there.

9) Due to a back problem, Husband returned early from work one night this month, then ended up having 2 days leave before returning to work and then being off for a tooth extraction before the weekend. This isn't good at all you're thinking right? Actually, we got to spend some much needed time just cuddling on the sofa and being 'us' despite the occasional whimper which just made me cuddle him more!

10) Our savings for our holiday in June are starting to look really good at last which means we can finally look forward to seeing family, exploring Cambridge and hopefully meeting a friend I've known for a very long time but am yet to meet!

What were the best bits you could draw from February? I hope March is good to you all and you never know, I might be on time with the next one!

CupcakeMumma

When Little Man Turned 2!

Yesterday was such a lovely day but I still can't believe my Little Man is 2 years old all of a sudden! We started off the day with some birthday pancakes which has become a tradition in our house (apart from Husband who hates pancakes- weirdo!) We all had them smothered in chocolate spread which was delicious.

After breakfast, Midge's friend came over so her Mum could have a break as she's been a bit unwell. Little Man played with the girls until Grandma arrived shortly followed by Auntie Fiona. He was all about the cards this little guy! He opened a pair of lovely new trousers and some new black shoes to wear about the town.
Later on, Auntie Emmie came over with yet more presents: some Thomas Tank shoes (these went down a treat and were tested out in the evening on the way to our meal) he also got a racing car mat for downstairs, some new tops and a Thomas Tank DVD (his first one!) No more relying on Netflix then!

Playing with his Bin Truck from Grandad

He also received a fantastic looking multi-coloured looking trike from his Nanny and Aunt which will be wrestled with as soon as I can muster the ability to keep swear words to myself. We bought him a bean bag chair, a play tent (which is currently being played with as I type) and a new dressing gown.

In the evening we ventured out to Wetherspoons for a nice family meal. Unfortunately Midge and Little Man were a little hyped up so they weren't as well behaved as they usually are but we dealt with all that the best we could! Our meals were really tasty (and very large):

Little Man had a fantastic day and he must have played and laughed so very much because from 7pm onwards i didn't hear a single peep from him until half 8 this morning!

Happy Birthday my beautiful Little Boy xx Mummy xx

CupcakeMumma

Before Your Birthday..

My Little Man,

Tomorrow you turn 2 years old. I have felt that these 2 years have plodded along quite nicely but then, all of a sudden here we are. You're fast asleep in the bedroom you share with your big sister, Midge (who you adore may I add!) Downstairs I have placed your new pop up tent in the front room with a present from Midge and a Thomas Tank Engine bean bag. It looks so cosy, I know you will love it!

From the minute I held you in my arms Little Man I knew we'd have such a special bond. Everything was so different when you arrived which meant we were able to bond quicker and easier than your sister and I. We're all super close now though which is a wonderful feeling!

You really are coming into your own now my Little Boy. You're cheeky and mischievous and hate to be left out. When your big sister has friends over you try and talk to them, play and join in their games despite having no idea what they're going on about! Unlike your sister it's a real challenge to get a good photo of you. You're not such a willing subject and Mummy has to be supper fast!

I cannot believe you have gone from this:

To this:

You can say a few words now you're paying attention a bit more. You say 'Mummy' and 'Daddy' (and Mumma) you can say your sister's name (which was your first word!) I get a few kisses here and there and plenty of hugs from you throughout the day. Daddy jokes that you're my little limpet.
Sometimes we still co-sleep (when Daddy lets us!) You and your blanket are almost permanently attached which is the sweetest thing ever and both you and Midge always get lovely comments about how well behaved and how close you seem.

I'm very proud to have you as my son Little Man and I cannot wait to continue to watch you grow.
Love you forever,
Mummy xxxx

PrinterPix Photo Competition Entry: Under 5's

Tots100 are hosting a pretty good competition at the moment and I thought I'd have a go, share a photo and see what happens!

My photo entry is this:

Here is my beautiful twosome making some (very well timed) funny faces. Midge loves and cares for her brother like I never thought she would. I really was surprised how easily Little Man just slotted into our lives and how amazingly well Midge accepted him. This photo will never cease to make me giggle and is, perhaps obviously, my go to photo when the chips are down.

This post is CupcakeMumma's entry into the Printerpix Photo competition

CupcakeMumma 

Scavenger Hunt Sunday

Candy

My pen pal sent me some lovely smelling candy love heart candles just before Valentines Day which was so lovely of her. The pink ones are obviously my favourite!

Pink or Red

This Tatty Bear was bought for me by my Husband exactly 6 years ago now! I love the red rose he holds and can't quite believe that despite being kept downstairs he's stayed in great condition!

Love

I love it when my children do adorable things like this!

Kisses

Smile

CupcakeMumma

My No Technology Day

So, a week ago now I took up the challenge to use no technology for a whole day. This challenge was introduced to me by Joanne who wrote her own account of her day off from the gadget world along with a blog post written by her daughter who held all said gadgets hostage!

I kept a written account throughout my day and here's how I got on:

Lets just start with how much I use shall we? Like most people I use the microwave, toaster very rarely the kettle for a hot water bottle or for visitors who drink tea. I use my camera, laptop and watch TV pretty regularly throughout the day. Then there's my phone. This is strapped to me! I use Twitter, Facebook, Kindle, music, Instagram, photos and camera and I write blog posts which involves me using photo editing apps in order to mark my photos. 

For this task (which I'm not actually looking forward to now I've listed the above!) I'm allowed to use the oven and I'm allowed to be in front of the TV when it's on but I'm not allowed to turn it on or be in control of the remote (and it's Match of the Day night!!)

7.25am I woke up next to my sleeping baby. I allowed myself to log onto my phone to link up a post I published the day before but couldn't link it up because of the different time zones. I said as it was important to me I'd link up but then turn my phone off. I did just that.

7.45am Realised if phone was on I'd already have Tweeted about my dream (which was horribly real) and the fact Little Man had drunk old milk..Realised I was in fact, pretty sad!

8.10am Husband came down to get ready for football (strapped to his phone). As Husband prepared to leave I soon realised there was no one to make me hot chocolate in the microwave! Nor would there be anyone for most of the day to hoover or turn on the TV for the children if they asked.

8.30am Just proved how much we re lie on technology by walking into the kitchen and turning the dryer on (which is full of work and school clothes) Soon realised my mistake, cursed myself then thought, 'that's how much I use technology, I don't even think about it! Now majorly aware of all things technological!

8.45am Husband left for football. He couldn't hoover and he didn't switch the TV on. Settling for colouring with the children instead.

10.15am Cleared out the downstairs toy box, got a nice big bag for the charity shop and a small bag of rubbish. husband came home due the match being cancelled so waiting on him to hoover! Sat with Midge and done her reading, maths and writing homework!

10.30am Just made hot chocolate the good old fashioned way- on the hob! It was a total success (obviously) but not tasting the same as my microwaved version..

11.30am Feeling peckish. Husband refuses to make me toast so just popped 2 pieces in the oven! I know some people make their cheese on toast this way but we don't even do that! ( In case you're wondering, it's 180* for 10 minutes for gluten free bread!)

11.50am- Toast was good! I forgot to turn it though but not too fussed.

2.00pm Been shopping. Midge used the self service check out (honest, I didn't touch anything not once) I nearly forgot about the ATM machines but luckily I just put the card in and Husband did the rest-phew!

2.30pm Husband using Facetime to chat..Instead of joining in I'm colouring again with the children which is really nice.

3.45pm Woke up from a half hour nap on the sofa while Husband cooked dinner. After last nights poor sleep a nap was much needed. I usually keep myself awake even when the opportunity for a nap is available by reading a book on my phone or browsing a social network.

4.00pm Baked apple pie with Husband which was nice instead of letting him getting on with it. Midge figured out the TV so they got Max and Ruby on without too much trouble..I'm surprised it's so far into the day with no TV.

4.45pm Kind of wanting to check the old phone now...Husband is constantly on his (he's just walked in with it!)

5.00pm Yey! Husband is hoovering!

5.30pm Husband has destroyed tea and I have lentil soup instead of lentil roast. Roast dinner has been re-scheduled so now heading to Wetherspoons instead!

6.45pm Had a lovely dinner but was weird not having my phone to snap photos. The children always behave so well and look so sweet when out that I love taking their photos and Husband doesn't take many.

7.00pm Midge and Little Man are playing up because they're a bit tired. I'm not feeling 100% so this is when I really want to curl up and immerse into the iPhone world!

7.40pm Both children are in bed so just waiting to see what Husband puts on TV. He has hidden my phone as was a bit tempting! I don't want to waste a whole days good work though. It's been a good experience.

That's where I finished my dairy at the end of the day. I even went to bed earlier than normal and I caught up on a lot of studying before I turned in which is really good. Here's what I learnt from my day:

-  If I use my phone as much as Husband used his then I use it a lot and that needs to change. I paid much more attention to both children and felt really relaxed colouring and playing trucks with them.Did  make me feel a bit guilty.

- I drank a lot less hot chocolate which didn't impress me! I was just too lazy to keep getting up and heating milk on the hob (shameful)

- I use my phone WAY too much. I have a really good camera and yet I use my phone? I sit and blog on it when the quality of my blog is better when using a laptop and I go on and off Twitter far too many times.

- I will probably never be parted from my phone in all honesty. What I want to do however, is spend more time with it put up somewhere (and Husbands') switch the TV off and bake, colour, craft all the things I used to do before we lived in the town. We lived in the countryside for years previously and were always out and about, hardly anything to watch. I want to make more memories and spend more time in front of happy children and less time in front of screens.

Thanks to Joanne for putting me up to this challenge.

CupcakeMumma

To Do This Winter: Decorate The Tree

 Hello readers, I am finally back to blogging after briefly loosing my Internet connection! I recently posted about out Winter Things To Do to round off a rather good year with my family. One of the first things we all wanted to do was decorate our Christmas tree! 

Lovely, sparkly tree! 

Adding more decorations

We gathered all our tinsel and baubles  fixed our tree together and checked the lights all worked before popping them on. After that was all sorted we cracked on with the fun! Midge and I decorated whilst Little Man just ran around with the baubles like a nutter. I'm really pleased with our tree this year and finally Little Man has become bored of trying to trash it!

Pleased as anything to be helping Mummy!

He's perfectly happy to just watch the
lights now

Tonight we made some glittery pine cones. We went to the Church fare at the weekend which was lovely. We weren't there for long because Little Man got pretty tired by the end of it. We did buy some cupcakes, a new teddy bear for Midge's growing collection and lit a candle for 'Super Nanny.' 

We missed Father Christmas by 10 minutes because there wasn't much to do and I was struggling to entertain Little Man in the Church (he was getting pretty restless and just wanted to go out the door!) We ended up walking around the churchyard which was very relaxing actually. Half way around I found the pine cones and popped them on the heater as soon as I got home so they would dry out. Of course, I forgot about them so we only decorated them tonight. I'll post a picture soon.

The candle we lit in memory of
'Super Nanny'

Amongst the Christmas trees there was a prayer tree. I decided
to write a prayer for Kerry (MultipleMummy)

Little Man loves the church,
it's lovely

So happy with her new teddy and a Christmas
biscuit

 I really hope you all had a great weekend. Looks like the bad weather is back in Cornwall, i'm glad to be tucked up under my quilt!

CupcakeMumma