5 Safe Valentine's Day Activities for Expectant Mothers

For couples in the first throes of romance, Valentine's day often means romantic treats, dinner dates and the giving of very personal gifts. However, for couples expecting a baby, St Valentine's day is perhaps written off as something that is for the young and free. However, these five Valentine's Day activity ideas prove that romance can blossom during a pregnancy when the day arrives. 

1. A Maternity Photo-Shoot

Most young couples will wait until their little bundle of joy arrives before thinking about taking some quality photographs, but a pregnancy is part of the journey towards parenthood, and it should be savoured. A romantic way to share a pregnancy with your partner this Valentine's Day is with a maternity photo-shoot. Professional photographers often offer special packages for expectant couples, which sometimes include themed clothing and various backdrops - for a selection of photos that will capture this magical time in your life forever. 

Mini Makes - Granola Breakfast Bites

We baked Chocolate and Granola Muffins just the other day and this week we decided to make some granola cereal bars which are great as an alternative to a sit down breakfast. Mornings can be busy and sometimes we need to eat on the go for convenience so these are ideal. They are really easy to make too which is always a bonus - I like to spend as little time as possible in the kitchen and as much time with my feet up!

You will need

Family Fun at Greenwood Forest Park

Named the best family attraction in North Wales for the past 4 years, GreenWood Forest Park caught our eye while travelling around Snowdonia during April. Entry for the four of us would have been just under £40 so for a day of entertainment that's really good value. The setting is very natural and relaxing and dogs are welcome on site too which is certainly a bonus when on holiday with pets.

Aimed more so at younger children, the attraction has a combination of indoor and outdoor play areas plus some furry and feathered friends to see too. It really is a place of adventure, fun and confidence building with the challenges to get involved with. We began our day by going on the Green Dragon Coaster which is a people powered ride, the only world's only, where you can email the snap shot to yourself to print at home for just £1.50 at the end. I thought this was such a great idea!

Hot Wheels Super Speed Blastway Review

Jamster has always loved playing with cars and over the years he has built up a vast collection of Hot Wheels tracks and diecast vehicles. The latest set to be added to the toy box is the Super Speed Blastway which at only £22.99 is quite an affordable toy to purchase.

There are two launch bays where cars can be loaded and when the triggers are pressed they zoom around the track which activates the pit crew pegs to pop up into the air. The idea is to be the first person to release them all above the grandstand and raise the finish flag - it's seriously fast moving and great for competitive play! Some skill is required but generally anyone can have a go. The way the trigger is pressed can alter the speed that the car travels at slightly so you need to get it just right to go round the loop successfully. I think that just adds to the enjoyment.

Craft Subscription Packs From toucanBox (PLUS Your Chance To Win)

Do you ever have the urge to get crafty with your children, but don’t know where to start when it comes to getting materials? It’s difficult to remember to save every gloopy lolly stick, especially when you’re out and about.

If this sounds like you, then toucanBox is the answer! 

They make craft boxes for 3 - 8 year old children which are filled with everything required to ignite their creativity and transport them to another world. Each box contains a unique project to complete with the support of an adult... although if you’re anything like me, you’ll enjoy it just as much as your little one.

We are giving you the chance to win a 3 MONTH SUBSCRIPTION to the TWO CRAFT Grande box.

This contains:

30 Wishes

Just a few days ago I joined club 30. I waved goodbye to my twenties and celebrated my birthday with family and friends over a delicious Indian meal with just one or two (bottles of) alcoholic beverages. I'd been dreading it to be honest, it felt as though my youth was coming to a bitter end and I was about to burst with grey hair and wrinkles (getting older is daunting for everyone, right?) but I decided to do something positive to mark my special day with Balloon Time instead.

Balloon Time kits are a convenient way to fill balloons at home in preparation for any celebration. They can easily transform a room and make it far more festive whether it's for a wedding day, christening or baby shower - whatever you like, and if you are a little adventurous you could create some bouquets or centre pieces for the table. You can even give them away to guests as favours at the end of the event which the children in particular will appreciate too. 

WIN a Spa Day For Two!

Win a Ragdale Experience Day for two people at award winning Ragdale Hall Health Hydro and Thermal Spa (worth £180 – valid Monday to Friday)

Ragdale Hall, located in the rolling Leicestershire countryside, combines state-of-the-art facilities with the charm of traditional Victorian architecture to create one of the most luxurious and relaxing health spas in the country. Wheather you are looking for total relaxation, me-time and pampering or to kick-start a healthier lifestyle, Ragdale Hall is the perfect choice. Our great selection of spa days and breaks include something for everyone.

You and a friend could spend a relaxing day (valid Monday – Friday) at Ragdale Hall in Leicestershire on a Ragdale Experience Day to include:

• Light lunch in the Verandah Bar.
• Plus use of all of Ragdale’s facilities including the multi-million pound Thermal Spa featuring candle pool, indoor/outdoor waterfall and a series of heat and water experiences plus two further pools, including whirlpool bath and cascade
• Gym, exercise classes and outdoor facilities.

NB 10.30am arrival - 6.30pm departure.

Chicken Hotpot for VE Day

The Ministry of Agriculture & Food created the fun character, Potato Pete, to encourage a healthy lifestyle during the war. Many people grew their own food inspired by the 'Dig For Victory' campaign and at one point there were as many as 1.4 million allotments within the UK. That's quite something! 

Potatoes became a staple ingredient, and it's no surprise as they not only provide a lot of energy but plenty of Vitamin C, B1, B6, Folate, Iron, Magnesium and Potassium. The government released some recipes to inspire families in the kitchen and to help them to provide healthy yet delicious meals. 

It's argued that the diets during the war were some of the healthiest the nation has seen so it might be worth trying some retro recipes at home today.

The Potato Council has given a modern makeover to several wartime classics to mark the 70th anniversary of VE Day (8th May 2015) and I too have created my own recipe. Although traditional hotpots often contained beef shin or sausages this is a delicious chicken alternative.

Pampers Celebrates #everybaby

On the same day that the nation celebrates one special birth, Pampers partners with award 

winning director to celebrate #everybaby

Baby Phoenix

If I wasn't broody already I certainly would be now! With the recent arrival of Charlotte Elizabeth Diana, daughter to the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and sister to George, it has made me long for another child even more so. My own bundle of joy that is equally as precious as royalty, just as Pampers know.

Every beautiful baby is a prince of princess to their parents, and with 2,000 babies born every day in the UK, each deserve the same joyous celebrations to mark their birthday! At a time of national celebration around one special birth, Pampers wants to celebrate #everybaby born into a world of love, sleep & play in a new captivating film directed by award winning documentary maker, Elizabeth Stopford.

Mini Makes #8 - Chocolate and Granola Muffins

I had two bags of granola hiding away in the cupboard fast approaching their expiry dates, and a packet of chocolate, so I decided to use them up while baking over the bank holiday weekend. The Mini Mes were happy to get involved while it was raining outside so we ended up with an activity to keep us occupied and some treats to eat at the end - win win!

You will need
(Makes approx 12)

Would You Purchase Adult Games For Your Children?

I'm quite strict when it comes to the apps and games the Mini Mes play. I get a notification every time they download something to their Kindle Fire HDs but they know to ask beforehand and I have a thorough look at exactly what it is they wish to play. I don't want them to be subjected to anything inappropriate, mainly to prevent nightmares at their age, and it can be hard for a child to distinguish the difference between reality and the virtual world at times, especially when graphics today are far more advanced than when I was a child. You can never be certain of the long term effects adult themed games can have on young minds either so I'd rather be safe than sorry.

My Voucher Codes recently sent me a survey on gaming habits, as part of their research into how social media and technology impacts our lives, and the results were quite shocking to read in Digital Connect Magazine. As many as 30% of UK parents purchase adult games for their children, with 35% not even playing them beforehand to see if they are suitable. These games often include violence, drugs and sex similar to the games listed below and I would definitely not let the Mini Mes watch or play things that are aimed at those aged 18 and over - however much they may protest in the future. 

Age restrictions are in place for a valid reason, surely?

Our New Arrivals

As you may have seen on Instagram, we collected a beautiful Border Collie just before Christmas to join our little family. We have Spartan already, the same breed that we bought as a puppy, and we had hoped a companion would've been lovely for him. Unfortunately however Spartan wasn't fond of the playful ball of fluff and he became very withdrawn, refusing food after just a few days, and therefore we had to say farewell to the new poochie much to everyone's disappointment. It was certainly for the best as although we were sad to see him go Spartan was here first and it was unkind to leave him so miserable. His happiness had to be priority as responsible dog owners and although it was difficult the Mini Mes did understand.

As the weeks went by I thought more and more about getting a different pet to fill that empty space in our hearts and after our trip to the Welsh Mountain Zoo at Easter it was obvious how much the Mini Mes adore rabbits. The decision was made.

 I ordered a hutch and set it up secretly one evening (please remind me how bad I am at flat-pack if I purchase furniture in the future) and a few days later I collected not one but two new bunnies from the local pet shop within the garden centre.

The excitement was a little overwhelming for Minxy who shed a tear and hugged me so tightly I felt I  may pop and Jamster was thrilled too, his huge grin was proof of that. They have been taking great care of them and they are always the first thing they mention when waking up and going to the last before they go to bed.

So let me introduce, Stampy, Bobby and their accommodation which is currently situated on our patio.

New Shoes

Ensuring the Mini Mes have properly fitted footwear is really important when it comes to their growth and development as wearing incorrect shoes can cause no end of issues for tiny toes. We generally have our feet measured at Brantano every 3 months as advised, and have done for several years, but it's always lovely to be invited to a store to review their service and receive new shoes in the process, which we were asked to do recently.

Upon arrival we were greeted by staff and shown to the fitting area. There is a table of WOW Toys to keep little ones entertained and also a large variety of stationery, bags, umbrellas and other accessories to browse while waiting. The wait wasn't long however and within minutes the Mini Mes had taken off their existing Nike footwear and were stood on the iPad foot gauge to have their feet sized. The device used was from Clarks and with whole and half size measurements and four different widths it really helps to ensure the perfect fit. It's interactive (they can pick a character, insert their name and age) which means children can really get involved with the entire experience.

Toast Your Way To The Top with Breville (PLUS Your Chance To Win)

As one of Britain’s favourite breakfast choices, with millions of slices consumed daily, a perfectly toasted slice of bread is the Holy Grail for many… Introducing the NEW ‘Breville 2 & 4 Slice Toaster – The Perfect Fit for Warburtons®’, which promises to toast loaves from Britain’s number one bread brand completely to the top, and just the way you like it!

The UK’s leading kitchen appliance brand, Breville, has collaborated with the number one bakery brand in the UK, Warburtons, to launch the first toaster of its kind that is ‘the perfect fit for Warburtons® ‘Toastie’ bread’.  The Warburtons ‘Toastie’ loaf is the UK’s best-selling branded loaf, with millions of consumers selecting it as their preferred bread of choice. And a great loaf of bread deserves a great toaster, one that can truly toast to the top and deliver perfectly golden brown slices for the breakfast of champions.

What Makes the Perfect Changing Bag - Cooper & Hill NEED You

Wouldn't it be lovely if a company actually listened to parents and created a changing bag based on their feedback? The lovely team over at Cooper & Hill have decided to do just that and therefore we need your opinions today! After all, it's the mums and dads that are the real experts when it comes to travelling with little ones and this is a company that recognises that fact and wants to combine style with functionality.

We will be collating all of your thoughts over the next few days and at the end of the week Cooper & Hill will be analysing the results before sending off the final plan to the manufacturer - how exciting knowing that you can be a part of the process!

They would appreciate your opinions on colour, design and just about anything else you may wish to mention when it comes to making the perfect bag so please do take a look at the three options they have come up with, use the poll to share your preferences and leave any additional comments below. 

Option 1

Mini Makes #7 - Basic Biscuits Recipe

I regulalry head to the fridge and cupboards to gather ingredients, with something delicious to satisfy my sweet tooth in mind, before discovering I don't have everything required. It's usually eggs that I'm lacking which get used up quickly for breakfasts, salads and sandwiches so over the years I've created quite a few treats without them.

These eggless biscuits I make quite often as it's a quick and easy recipe and you can add fruit, nuts or chocolate (or just about anything you like) to give them flavour, coat them in icing or sandwich filling between a pair. It's something the Mini Mes make unaided too and they go well in lunch boxes.

You will need
(Makes approx 15)

10 Great House Warming Gifts

It’s important to mark the occasion of a friend moving into a new home with an extra special gift. A new house is a place where they will start a new life, create memories, and enjoy their very own space. A house warming gift should be a celebration of this new phase. The present that you give should help them make the most of their new nest and heighten the excitement that comes with moving into a new home. Here are some gift ideas to give you inspiration.

Tool Box

Sooner or later every new homeowner is presented with the need for a good set of tools. Don’t let them come up short when the moment comes.

Personalised Products

From coasters to clocks, there is almost no product which you can’t personalise with a photo or text online. Have fun with the name of their new address, use a picture you know they like and get them something unique.

Top 5 Family Destinations for the Summer Holidays 2015

Travelling abroad is one of life’s greatest experiences, but what’s even better is sharing it as a family. Holidaying together allows you to make life-long memories, see the world together, and create bonds that will last a lifetime. In order to ensure all of these things, you need to find a place that will be suited to everyone, from the babies to the grandparents. Due to this, a lot of people are now opting for boutique family holidays which guarantees an ideal adventure catering for all your needs and desires whilst abroad.

With summer is fast looming, you may not be sure where to go. Here is a quick guide to the top 5 summer holiday destinations 2015.

The Mini Mes in Kefalonia

Turkey

This is a European destination where families with children are very welcome with the locals being extremely friendly and helpful. Famous for its mud baths and delicious cuisine, Turkey also has a lot more to offer. If you are keen on history and architecture, the capital city Istanbul has an array of castles, palaces, and markets to visit, as well as trips on ferryboats to experience as a different mode of transport to the everyday walking and catching the bus. 

Brilliant Beauty Buys (PLUS Your Chance To Win)

I'm on a bit of a mission this year (as I mentioned in my beauty haul post just here) to boost my confidence and take care of little old me a little bit more as I approach the big three zero - EEK. Therefore I've been treating myself to the odd beauty product baskets full and I've become dedicated to my daily skincare routine since January. Panda eyes from last nights makeup is not a look I've seen in quite some time, thankfully, and I'm looking and feeling so much better for it.

I've even received quite a few lovely items from companies to put to the test recently and here are some of the latest ones I've been using...

Time Bomb Black Ops Dark Circle Rescue - £36

This is shaped perfectly for easy application around the eyes although you can apply a small amount to your fingertips to gently rub in if you wish. It is to be used twice a day, focusing on the darker under eye area and the corners and it really is quite magical! It reflects light well, with a shimmering look, even underneath makeup, so your imperfections and bags are minimalised. Perhaps a bit pricey for the size but it definitely does what it says on the packaging! It is ideal for hyper-pigmentation too.

Him and Her in April

April has been quite a mixed month for us so far. We had the excitement of birthdays with Jamster turning 9 then Minxy turning 11 and we had a lovely relaxing holiday away in Wales over Easter. From there things seemed to go downhill quite quickly however and we had a full week of illness where we were all struck with the nasty Norovirus one after the other. It completely ruined the break from school and all of our remaining plans.

I'm not great at dealing with sickness as it is but when poorly myself and handling unwell children it certainly is a struggle. It's absolutely exhausting and I was praying for it to come to an end for everyone. Sorting sick is just another part of parenthood that we just have to crack on with though, however horrible, although you never get used to seeing your little ones suffer and I hate the feeling of helplessness. I wish I could take the pain away for them.

In some ways, trying to think positively, I was lucky that it was one child followed by the next rather than them both being ill together. Minxy was able to fetch flannels, tissues and toast when required to help her brother and Jamster plumped pillows and made drinks when it was his sisters turn to be down. At the time we all just did what needed to be done, no questions asked, but looking back now after we have all recovered it's quite lovely to think about how they were both so kind and caring for their sibling. Neither grimaced at the sight of the other (or how untidy our home was from a lack of housework!). Neither complained of boredom and not being able to go out. They didn't moan about helping when needed and in fact they even offered to at times or did so without me mentioning. Both were concerned for the other and it was really quite sweet.

They are back to their normal bickering now so they must be on the mend!
Here's hoping that May is better, although it is already set to be.

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