The King of Douchebagestan.

The King of Douchebagestan. So the kids I teach performed on Saturday. They were truly amazing! I was so proud! The dances went like a dream, as did the two songs. They looked really confident and they were enjoying it, which is the main thing at the end of the day. However, one man, let’s call him the king of Douchebagestan, decided to mess with the wrong woman. As they were performing their last number, a big choir group were walking past the stage to get back stage ahead of their performance (They were on after us) Not only was it distracting having a big group of singers sneaking past the stage as the kids were singing – but the King of Douchebagestan tought it would be a good idea to shout – Yes shout – instructions to one of his choir members right next to me. Just off stage. Yes. That’s right. Right next to the stage where my 6 -13 year old children were performing. He was obviously trying to shout over their lovely singing. After a little while I turned around and asked them to be quiet. The stage manager and one of his performers (who were also involved in the conversation), said sorry straight away whereas the King of Douchebagestan simply says: “Eeer. It’s not like the audience is going to hear me. I’m standing right to the speaker.” Erm. Exactly. You’re standing next to the speaker – just off stage – shouting. I was actually stunned and slowly turned around, thinking that I didn’t want to create a scene in the middle of the kids’ performance. After they had performed and the kids were safely out of earshot I could see the King of Douchebagestan walking backstage. I was already explaining to Brooks what had happened. I was still fuming and so I approached him. He clearly needed a lesson in stage craft/professional attitude/general lesson on how one should behave in life towards other human beings (And a make-over, the man was over 60 and was wearing a brown leather jacket! Anyway, that’s beside the point). Again he huffs: It’s not like the audience would hear me! At this point, he’s only a few inches away from me. I’m in no way backing off, I felt like I was protecting my children. . I say that he is rude. What he did is disrespectful. The kids could hear him. We were still performing; he had no right to start shouting in the middle of our performance. Again the King of Douchebagestan laughs and says: I think you got your knickers in a bit of a twist. I can’t express my feelings at this remark. It’s so unbelievable rude, sexist, belittling and unprofessional. At this point he was tad too menacing so luckily B was there to push him away saying: okay, that’s enough from you. You’re sexist and rude, you need to go now!! The man laughs and walks away. Soon after one of the stage managers approach me to ask what had happened. I tell her the whole story and she says that he’s been rude and just terrible to all stage staff and that they would not be rebooking them next year. Karma King of Douchebagestan.

Busy busy busy

We got back from Sweden late last night. K and R came to pick us up which was lovely of them. Jackson was so happy to see Granny and Gramps!

The flight went really well part from Jackson fell as we were boarding and hit his head really badly and consequently vomited everywhere! Poor little man!
He was okay though and the flight over was pretty un eventful. It just amazes me how good he is with flying. He just settles in straight away and knows the drill. He never cries or makes a fuss. Just brilliant. Jackson is pretty good at this flying malarkey as well.

Anyway, got back and unpacked somewhat and then we had Jackson's birthday party today at Parents Paradise. It was fantastic and Jackson (and indeed B and I) had a brilliant time! They were very good actually - we got our own "party room" with food, drinks, ice cream and unlimited play. I think all of Jackson's little friends enjoyed themselves too.
(Parents Paradise is a big indoor soft play area - well worth a visit!)
http://www.parentsparadise.eu/

At the moment I should be packing for Spain but I'm sooooooooo tired... Need to get myself motivated. I'm looking forward to going but I'm not looking forward to not seeing my boys for five days!
I'm going to Madrid with work and even though I'm sure it'll be amazing I know it'll be full on with company visits and lectures. I'm very lucky to get to travel with work so shouldn't complain!

Sweden was great. Very busy and stressful, didn't have time to see anyone part from Carin, but it was productive and we got loads done for the wedding. May have to come back in May again. Will have a look on Ryanairs website to see what flights are at the moment.
Basically we're trying to sort stuff on the island to make it more habitable. The old fishing huts are quaint, but are not particularly user friendly at the moment!
It will be awesome though I think.

Have been busy on eBay buying tons of trinkets and whatnots for the wedding... It's exciting times, I can sort of see the light at the end of the tunnel!

Dum, dum di dum...

New Year

We've now been engaged for a whole year - exciting!

I honestly cannot wait to get married. It feels more real now and things are falling into place. Everyone's getting involved in the planning and things are being booked and paid for... Eeeek!

I went to see a florist in Valdemarsvik the other day. I really like her shop and I've seen some of her work on her blog. She's going to send over some more pictures and examples. She seemed enthusiastic which is always nice. You basically want someone who's service minded and nice to be around/talk to. Honestly, sometimes I wonder why some people go into people facing professions when they clearly don't like it!?

Anyway - she clearly is in the right profession, hurrah, and so I was very happy with our first meeting.

Here's her website: http://www.frokenflora.org/

We also met our photographer, Matilda. We both really like her and absolutely love her photos! She is lovely - she's easy to be around, seems chilled yet obviously knows what she's doing and just has a very nice, warm aura if you like. Most pleased!

She's a really busy lady, and I'm really not surprised - her photos are fab! Have a look at her website - http://fotografmatilda.nu/blogg/

I've been working on my scrapbook as well. It's coming along nicely and can't wait to show my mum - she's going to love the level of organisation. I think she's a bit worried that I'm not organised enough?! Er... I run a degree programme, a business with B as well as being a mother... I think I can handle a wedding!

But I do see why people get stressed out. There is a lot of organising to do! Especially when getting married abroad for that matter and having a wedding blessing at home.

My lovely friend CPK made my day the other day. As a wedding gift she's going to sort out our wedding music... I honestly couldn't be happier!! I LOVE that I have such amazing and talanted friends! I knew there must have been a reason to why I studied Performing Arts...

We're off to Southampton this weekend to visit some friends and then it's B's birthday next week. B's actually off filming in Milan (lucky bugger!) so I'll be holding down the fort on my own.
I've got him tickets to see La Soiree for his birthday. I loved the show when I went before Christmas so I'm hoping he'll feel the same. We're going to stay over in a hotel on the Saturday night, making it even more special. Yay!

I'm feeling very positive about 2012 so far. It's going to be a great year.

Wedding Weekend

It was our dear friends R & R’s wedding this weekend.
We travelled up early on the Friday as we wanted to get there with plenty of time to spare and you just never know what the traffic is going to be on a Friday...
Anyway, the wedding was in Lancashire, not far from Lancaster, so it was about a four hour drive. Funnily enough, it’s a drive we’ve done several times, as some of B's family live up there.

R and R had kindly invited us to the rehearsal dinner on the Friday evening so we were lucky enough to have a first look at their venue.
They had chosen the Midland hotel in Morecambe, and it was a stunning venue! The Midland is a fully restored Art Deco hotel, with an absolutely amazing spiral staircase, beautifully situated right on the seafront.
Rachel’s father mentioned Poirot as an inspiration for the wedding, and I really did feel like I had been magically transported to that era!
The food was just gorgeous! Just absolutely delicious - one of the best meals I’ve had for a while, and the drink and company equally enjoyable!

They (R and R) went through the schedule for the following day, talking through the timings of things and who was doing what etc…
I think personally that this is a brilliant idea. We could really see the advantage of having everything in place, and this way everyone knows exactly what they’re doing and when. I guess you look at it as a show or any event, the same amount of planning to into a show and with the same precision!
You avoid confusion and you can be certain that (hopefully!) everyone is on the ball.

The actual wedding was beautiful and she looked like a film star – just absolutely stunning!
I loved all the little details; especially the through running theme of their logo on all stationery, the penguin books and the vintage high tea theme which is a personal favourite of mine! It’s all in the details really and more so if you’re going for a particular theme. (Theirs being Art Deco of course.) They had done an amazing job, and the venue looked amazing!
The ceremony was emotional and jolly at the same time. It felt relaxed and joyous – what a brilliant mix!
R & R had asked me to sing and the nerves kicked in with full strength the moment I grabbed the microphone. I think it went well though and I was very honoured to have been a part of their ceremony. It felt very special!

After the ceremony there was a drinks and canapé reception which got massive thumbs up from us! We loved the classical cocktail hour (you could chose from a Cosmo or Long Island!) and the canapés where very tasty!

I also liked the unusual wedding cake – it suited them and it was very classy. I also loved the Lindy hop lesson, very different and fun for all.

Many congratulations to the happy couple – May this next chapter in your lives be a long and happy one!

Some pics from the day...

Celebrating Life

I hate funerals.

Even if I wasn't even that close to the person who has passed I cry buckets. It's the whole concept of it all, the coffin, the somber men carrying the coffin, the family and friends grieving, the beautiful flowers, the prayers, the anecdotes from his/her childhood, the music....

I somehow feel silly to be crying if I didn't know the person that well... Like I'm not allowed to shed tears... I don't know... Maybe I'm just a sensitive person. Or maybe it's just a Swedish/English polite thing.

But they are often also beautiful.

The flowers, the prayers, the anecdotes, the poems, music... Although sad, it's very beautiful.
It's also about the people in their life; their parents, children, lovers and friends.
It's a celebration of Life and the legacy they leave behind.
It's about Love and compassion. Friendship.

It does make you think. Life is so, so precious... It's the people in your life that matters - all the other worldy things really don't matter at the end of the day.

Your job, car, tax returns, public transport... We spend so many hours of the day worrying about all these silly things. Such a waste.

A young person recently passed. She was only 32 so she was taken away much too soon...
Her funeral was so beautiful, however sad. I cried buckets.
There were no flowers, no black clothes, no somber music but rather people were wearing bright colours and we listened to Take That.
She had so many family and friends there to pay their respects/say their final goodbyes. The whole place was packed, people were even standing at the far end of the room and around the sides.
She was clearly a person who cared for her friends and someone who was much liked. An outgoing, bright and loving person.

Take care of yourselves and your loved ones.
And live Life to the fullest, you never know when it may be your turn to go.

Worth thinking about

The following is the philosophy of Charles Schulz, the creator of the
'Peanuts' comic strip.
You don't have to actually answer the questions. Just ponder on them.
Just read it straight through, and you'll get the point.

1. Name the five wealthiest people in the world.

2. Name the last five Heisman trophy winners.

3. Name the last five winners of the Miss America pageant.

4 Name ten people who have won the Nobel or Pulitzer Prize.

5. Name the last half dozen Academy Award winners for best actor and
actress.

6. Name the last decade's worth of World Series winners.


The point is, none of us remembers the headliners of yesterday.

These are no second-rate achievers.

They are the best in their fields.

But the applause dies..

Awards tarnish.

Achievements are forgotten.

Accolades and certificates are buried with their owners.

Here's another few. See how you do on this one:

1. List a few teachers who aided your journey through school.

2. Name three friends who have helped you through a difficult time.

3. Name five people who have taught you something worthwhile.

4. Think of a few people who have made you feel appreciated and
special!!

5 Think of five people you enjoy spending time with.

Easier?

The lesson:
The people who make a difference in your life are not the ones with the
most credentials....the most money...or the most awards.
They simply are the ones who care the most.

'Don't worry about the world coming to an end today. It's already
tomorrow in Australia…

''Be Yourself. Everyone Else Is Taken!"

Centreparcs

I had heard of Centreparcs before but somehow I have never really cared about looking into it. I just assumed that I wouldn't like it.
How wrong I was.

Centreparcs rocks!! I absolutely loved it! It has everything you would like, and if you like to be out in the nature, doing "sporty" (but not too sporty) things, then this is the place for you!
Also - it's perfect for children. I mean, they really do cater for children families and the facilities are fantastic.

http://www.centerparcs.co.uk/

We drove down on the Monday and after a short stop we got there for about 3pm. The cabin/house in itself, (we shared the accommodation with B's mum and stepdad) was okay. It's quite dated but perfectly clean and had everything you'd need. (Part from wifi!!) Lovely little kitchen, bathroom, two toilets and big rooms. Outside there were a table and chairs overlooking a little lake with cute little ducks swimming happily around. So cute! We had a deer and a squirrel visit us a few times - you certainly don't get that in London! The trees surrounding the cabin where massive, so impressive! They seemed to go on forever! I felt like I was in the States or Canada somewhere... You know when you watch films and they are in those woods, with the massive trees? Can't for the life of me remember the name...

Anyway, we had brought our bikes and truth be told – I was a bit rusty. I have ridden my bike once in about three years. Shocking I know. But it’s not like in Sweden where you have separate bike lanes and it’s all safe. Here you feel like you’ll die as soon as you touch the tarmac! But hey, once you've learned to ride the bike right?
Centreparcs is very bike friendly with lanes and specific bike parking etc. Just amazing! There was also a land train going around the whole resort, should you be too tired of riding the bike/walking. (Though we didn't try it out, too busy speeding on our bikes!)
We had booked a table at Strada at the Plaza and so set off at about 5.30pm. Jackson had his own seat and he love riding behind dad on the bike.
It’s the first time he’s been on B’s bike and I wasn’t sure if he was going to like it or not but he LOVED it!

The next following days we spent riding our bikes around the resort and the beautiful lakes, shopping, feeding the ducks (who kept trying to get into the house!!). B and I played Badminton in Jardin de Sports (why it was French I do not know), which was this massive sports complex in the middle of the resort. Loved it though I can still feel it in my legs! And I lost. Bad times.
But there was SO much to chose from – Archery, Tennis, Golf, Horse riding, Climbing etc, etc…
On the Tuesday we went to the Spa which was just glorious. Three hours of pure relaxation – what more can you ask for really?! I really recommend booking in for a Spa day at Longleat if you're planning a holiday.
There is a Swimming Dome and this was probably my favourite. We all went on the slides and Jackson was so brave! He seemed terrified at the beginning, looking down at me standing there with my arms out, but then his little face just lit up to this amazing smile as he swooshed down the slide. I was so proud of him!
I particularly liked the Rapids – a slide that goes around the whole Dome, on the outside. How cool is that!? There were hot Jacuzzi style pools, paddling pools, mud and sand pits, slides for adults, teens and tots, food and a shop… Just brilliant!!

We where very lucky with the weather actually. Being England, I was surprised that it only rained once and then we had glorious sunshine for the rest of the week!

I’m most definitely going back to Longleat. Who’s coming with?

Rachel's Hen Do in Somerset

Right, we’re down to the final numbers now. Save the Dates are going out next week and B and I are just about to decide on the layout! So exciting!

Speaking of weddings - I was away for Rachel’s hen do last weekend which made it so much more real. I still have a long way to go, I know, but I can’t get over how much fun this has been so far! (With a few minor hitches!).
We had an amazing time! We went to the Yurt Retreat in Somerset - http://www.theyurtretreat.co.uk/. I can really, really recommend it! I loved the whole experience, sitting around the fire singing, cooking and eating together inside the logcabin, chilling inside with a glass of wine with the girls, dancing to Beyonce... My kind of holiday! I would definintely come back here for a proper holiday with the family actually!
We drove down on the Friday. There were quite a few of us in Rachel's tiny car, but we didn't mind really - who doesn't love a ROADTRIP!? We got to Somerset for about 5pm - ish and had lovely food and drinks. The weather was nice so we lit the fire and had games, singing and laughing around the fire outside.
We made jewellery on the Saturday. Rachel' sister Sarah makes jewellery for a living and i LOVE her style. It's rather vintage looking and I absolutely loved the lesson. I made two rings and a rather pretty neclace! We also made saucy pants, seeing the girls (and boy) trying them on was hilarious!!

On Saturday night we went out for drinks and a gorgeous meal. I can safely say that I've gained about a stone during this weekend away. But man was is worth it! So so so much gorgeous food!

Sunday we spent chilling and roaming around Crewkerne before heading back to London.

I had a great time but I was absolutely knackared on the Monday and the plan was to go on a family holiday - back to where I just had been! Hilarious!! In hindsight, I should have stayed in Somerset and then just met up with the family in Longleat!

Inspiration

Here a few things I'm looking at for wedding inspiration

Centre pieces...

Wedding Cakes...

Bridemaid Dresses...

and Shoes to go with the dresses...

Flower girl hair garland

More vintage wedding stuff...

Style Icons...

Grace Kelly

Marilyn Monroe

Cinderella

Jackie Kenney

Change of Plans

Set a Date. Tick.
Book Venue. Tick.
Book Church. Tick
Sort Bridesmaid dresses. Tick
Buy The Dress. Tick.

To say the least, we had a few busy weeks deciding, planning, um-ing and ah-ing. We’ve made some significant changes, but I’m very pleased by the outcome!
So, we’ve decided to have two weddings! Why have one when you can have two? (And I get to plan TWO parties – nothing beats that!)
We’ll have a small ceremony with our closest family and friends in Sweden and then a blessing and party in the U.K.
I’m so excited about our new wedding plans! Things are definitely looking up.
We saw the perfect bridesmaid dresses the other day. The colour is perfect and I think the cut is really flattering too. It’ll suit all of the girls.
We’ve booked a venue in Sweden and are on the hunt just now for something suitable in Hertfordshire.

We’re sending out our Save the Dates next week. Just had a look at some designs we like. Just have to pin the hubby-to-be down to approve them!

So.excited.com!!

Yes, things are definitely looking up… Well, I say that and then our car broke down this morning! B was due to film in London and so it couldn’t have happened at a more inconvenient time. London Transport is fantastic when it works. But it seldom does, particularly on weekends.
I don’t get it, London – the largest city in the United Kingdom, a rich, multi cultural melting pot, with all its technical advances and still they can’t seem to sort of the transport system? I think secretly we just love to hate it too much!

So why is it then when something goes wrong, everything seems to go wrong? So the window broke in car the day before yesterday, then today it won’t start… What’s next?

I’ve been applying for a lot of jobs lately. I’m hoping that something good will come through. Heavens knows we could do with the money right now! One thing is certain; weddings are NOT a cheap business!
There are a few marketing jobs out there, some of which sound really interesting and it would be amazing to get on that ladder.

As we’ve moved the wedding date B will be able to do Edinburgh next year, if he can/wants to. I think it’s a good decision. He really missed it this year and it’s important to be up there if you want to do comedy. Again, it depends on what sort of jobs he can get this year in order to save money… Fingers crossed. (Hopefully that means Jackson and I can go up and visit too – I LOVE Edinburgh!).

Right, off to search for some wedding venues for the UK wedding party!

Brighton and my birthday

My wonderful fiance treated me to a trip to Brighton for a few days for my birthday. (I know, he's a keeper!).

We had a wonderful time and it was so nice to relax and be by the sea. As I grew up by the sea, I do miss it in London and the concrete jungle. (Mind you, Hertfordshire is rather green and surburbian..).

We stayed in a really nice hotel in Worthing, right by the seafront. It was only about a 20 minute drive into Brighton and we managed to do a lot of shopping and sightseeing. We've been to Brighton before many times, as Brooks and I love it so much, and it was nice for Jackson to come back too. (We went last year in the spring).

We went down the Pier, down The Lanes and the Sea Life centre. We also ate a lot of nice food. I must have put on half a stone!
The boys in particular loved the Sea Life centre. It was so cool! I loved seeing the turtles being fed and there was this tunnel where you could see the sharks, sting rays and turtles swim around and over! It was so amazing!

I do think it's important to get away sometimes. It's like taking a nice, big breath in before continuing you life, isn't it?

Aaaaaaaand exhale.

Cater or not to cater?

I sort of see the advantages with having less time to organise a wedding. What I mean is, when you have over a year to think about things, one tends to change ones mind. A lot.

We have been looking at other venue options, trying to figure out what we really want. We're keen to find something that really represents us, (within our price budget), and we're finding it difficult. I'm not worried though, I know we'll find something fantastic! We could either stick with the Sarratt Hall, (which is a great venue), but that does require us to find/hire caterers, linens, napkins and chair covers etc, or we go for something completely different that already have everything included in the price. A tricky one!

We have been meeting with caterers though and have found one that is fantastic! Very accommodating and he seemed very passionate about food and providing a great service. He's been a chef himself for many years and had some great ideas when it came to bring some "Swedish style" food to the menu.

As we're off to Sweden soon I'm also planning to go and search for my dress next week. So far I have seen a lot that I like, but not yet "The One". To be honest, I'm quite enjoying the search in itself!

New Year, Lots of New Changes.

Every year, I make New Year Resolutions. Well, there tend to be a few, and they tend to be the same. Generally they go, in no particular order:

Loose a couple of stones.
Make/Win/Steal lots of money - pay off mortgage.
Get+Stay Healhty.

This year, however, I didn't have to. (well, on the first one anyway).

B and I met ten years ago, at drama school, and have been great friends ever since. We fell in love during some mad Midsummer Night Rehearsal, during our last year at Drama School six years ago and moved in together shorthly after.
In 2009 our beautiful baby boy was born and now, in July next year, we're getting married!

To say that I was happy at the proposal is an understatement.
To say that I was darn pleased to see the amazing ring is also an understatement.

I always thought, in a sort of movie romantic kind-of-way, that I would be a sobbing wreck as my man got down on one knee to propose. That I would quietly whisper a yes to him and then sob some more. That didn't happen.

I did cry, but much later when my friends joined us and I could tell (scream in their faces) the happy news!

It was a perfect moment, of course. It's New Years Eve and fireworks are going off everwhere, we're standing next to each other on the balcony, looking at the sky when he gets down on one knee. He didn't even have time to finish his speech before I yell YES! YES! YES! and start jumping up and down. I did a lot of screaming. A lot.

It was definitely one of the highlights of my life so far.

So now: dress shopping, cake picking, mood boards, flower arrangements, card designs and lots and lots of glorius spreadsheets!

In February they finally removed my sodding gallbladder. It's been a long process but it's over now and I feel so much better.
Removing my gallbladder meant changing my diet which then also resulted in me loosing a stone half! (See - still going back to the NYE resolution?)

I can't stress this enough - if you keep having stomach pains/feeling bloated and they tell you that it's IBS and you still feel something isn't right - Please, please have it checked out. Demand to have an ultrasound right then and there!

2011 is definintely a good year.

Health

So it turns out I have a stone in my tummy.

I mean, I can't actually feel it moving about as such, but I know it's there. I've seen it. Live on TV!

Lying there on the familiar ultrasound chair, almost expecting the ultrasound-man to say "and there's the baby!" - I was really nervous as he was moving the stick-thingy around over my tummy.
The doctors had been running test all day, ranging from x-rays, EKG-ing and now this so I was knackered and worried.

The man grunts and nods slowly.
I almost panic. This is is. I have some weird, really unusal disease and I only have five hours to live...

The man looks at me blankly and goes:

"Yup. It's a stone alright."

I gasp and look at the black mass on the blurry screen.
In comparison to the gallbladder itself it's massive! I'm strangly impressed and repulsed at the same time.

"Do you think I need an operation?" I ask tentatively.

I didn't heal so well last time I was cut open and so I'm not exactly thrilled at the prospect.
He looks at the stone on the screen again.

"Yes. It's just going to get worse from now." he says plainly. "Alright, better get going now. Busy day today!"

I'm rushed out from the room and back to my ward for more testing. Nurses and doctors all come up to ask how I'm feeling and if I need more painkillers etc. Thruthfully, (part from feeling starving from the nil-by-mouth malarkey!), I felt fine. Just like normal even.

The difference, I suppose, was that I know knew that something is wrong. I had just seen it with my own eyes.

And that was a good feeling.

A few years ago I went to our family doctor back home complaning about stomach pains and bloating. I knew that something was wrong and I was desperate for someone to help me.
That particular doctor thought it may be gallstones, but he was also quick to add that "I'm too young for such illnesses." (Oh great. So glad to be the exception!)

I went to my GP and she was adamant that I had IBS. There was NO waaaaay I could have gallstones!
Now, I know people with IBS and I've read lots about it and some of them suffer so badly, they can't leave the house. My pains would come and and go, and completely random.
It didn't feel right somehow. I knew something was wrong!
So I asked again if she could send me for a scan. She almost laughed in my face and said, in a round-about way, that it would be a waste of everyone's time.

I soon after fell pregnant and my priorities changed. I would still have pains but was busy listening out for my baby.

My point of all that is - stick to your guns.

I mean it.

I should have done. I knew something was wrong. I wish I had followed my gut feeling (no pun intended!) and forced them to give me an ultrasound.

"If you have health, you probably will be happy, and if you have health and happiness, you have all the wealth you need, even if it is not all you want." ~Elbert Hubbard

Playground Ethics

There are some unwritten rules when it comes to the playground.

Basically - keep an eye on your offspring and make sure he/she doesn't wack/bite/push any other kids. Sounds simple, doesn't it?

Sadly, it doesn't always work like that.

I don't know how many times other children have pushed past my little angel in the queue up the climbing frame, making him fall over and bump his head.
I try and not make too much of a fuss - though I feel like shouting: "Oi! Don't push in you little brat!! Can't you see that there is a queue?! You need to learn to wait your turn! Do that again and I'll throw you in the duckpond!!.
Then I remember that the child is five and shouldn't be responsible for his/her actions really. Morever, I would only make him/her cry and that's awkward. Also, had had one too many coffees that morning so was sort of wired.

At the end of the day, it's up to their mum to control their little angel. However, ormally she'll be standing somewhere over by the gates gossiping with the other mums, completely oblivious to the drama her child is causing.

So through gritted teeth I ask (nicely mind!) the other child to mind Jackson as he's only little, etc, etc.
The monster in question then turns to me and says with pursed lips:
"Whatever. You're not my mum!"
Monster then turns around, pushes Jackson over again and runs over to the slide.

Aaaaand the new Olympic sport iiiiis: "Throw in-duck-pond with little four year oooold!"

If only.

The other rules, which includes queuing again, (Brits love a good queue, don't they?), regards the swings. Kids love them. Parents love them. So if your little darling is on one chances are there will be a long queue of other kids waiting to get on them.
But there are the are hoggers... There's not much we can do about them. This breed of parents seem absolutely oblivious to the long queue of children crying, "I waaant to goo on the swiiiiiiing!!".
Asides from actually pushing their child off the swings there is not much you can do part from asking them to hurry the hell on.

PLaygrounds are great for making your child run off all that energy and that - but it's mighty tireing for mum...

Mind you... It is a very good oppertunity to catch up on the gossip!

Photos

As a follow on from my earlier post - here are some wonderful photos all created with a handy little app...

Enjoy!

Work and play

We've been pretty busy lately trying to sort out our working sitation and I finally feel like where getting somewhere...

I love the feeling when the pieces of the puzzle comes together! It's been a struggle, but I can see the light at the end of the tunnel - at last. If things go as planned next week, then we both could end working with jobs that we actually want to do...

Beacuse that is surely what life is about? Well, an aspect of at least. I'd like to think that work should reflect you and your character. That it should make you happy and proud.
I want to be able to say to my son that I'm doing something that I love and that I'm passionate about.

For me, it can't just be a job, it's who I am. It may sound like a cliche, but it's the truth.
I would not feel fulfilled and happy unless I was doing something I truly loved.

On another note, I've a relationship with my phone.

I know. It's ridiculous.

Apart from all the fun apps, the thing I love the most is that I can stay in touch with work all the time.
That is, however, also where the relationship borders on unhealthy.
There is a reason why people say you should be able to unwind and detach yourself but having an Iphone makes it impossible.

I'm sure, like with any new relationship this will eventually dwindle and the fire will sooner or later stop raging, but for now - it's definintely a passionate relationship.

Besides, if I do get this job then my iPhone is going to be my trusty ally so better keep feeding that fire...

"Heaven knows we need never be ashamed of our tears, for they are rain upon the blinding dust of earth, overlying our hard hearts."

It's strange when your parents cry.

You feel slightly awkward and weird and suddenly you are the one who tells you nice and comforting things. Maybe, like me, you feel like patting them on the back in a kinda "hang in there" gesture.
You want to take away their pain, but also, (perhaps because it feels slightly odd), you are a bit taken aback.
I mean - you are the child. You are the one who are meant to fall over and bruise your knee and then get cuddles from mummy.

But I wonder if it really is that plain? Surely it goes bothways? It may be strange, but when your parents need comforting and they can't go to their friends - should they come to you? Should you be a shoulder to cry on?

I have a very emotional Mother who never has shied away from displaying her emotions. I don't see this as a problem though, not at all. At least you will always know her true feelings!
My Father on the other hand... I don't know if I've ever seen him cry. At all. I thought I saw a tear at Grandad's funeral but maybe it was just my hazy eyesight, blurred from my own tears.

I don't find it hard to cry, in fact I do it quite often. More so after having our baby granted but nevertheless, I think I'm an emotional person. Like my Mother I explode and go ape immediately. I'm working on it though, and I try to not get into combat when riled as it always end up in tears. (Not mine though - mwhooohahhhaaa!)

For over two weeks time my Mother has called me and cried down the phone.
Sobbing...
She sometimes cries so much we can't have a conversation. Often I just let her cry and just sit there in silence.
She made a rash (and rather foolish) decision that she is now regretting.
I don't blame her, I would never have done what she did, and sadly, she knows that too now.
But what do you say?
She keeps asking what she should do... I don't know what to say. I'm angry that she didn't talk it through with us first.
I keep telling her that she is an emotional person and NEVER should make any decisions when angry/sad/elated...
I've learned this the hard way and perhaps she still needs to learn this...
But what do I do? Now, when it's done and she wishes it wasn't, and she CAN'T STOP crying?

All I can do is: say that it'll be alright.... That everything will be okay and that things are probably better this way... That what's done is done....

Problem is though, it's utter bollocks and just something you say...
I DON'T think it's for the better! Things ARE NOT better this way!

But of course I won't tell her that... My job is to comfort, to support, to soothe...

God knows that we're not perfect and we should recieve the support and love when we make mistakes.
It's something you say because you love them and you don't want to hear or see them suffer.

Back in the USSR!

Well, not really... Though it does feel a bit old and grey around here sometimes. Wouldn't go so far as to draw parallels to the Cold War though.

Things are pretty much back to normal and we're settling into our old routine. It was wonderful to see Brooks again and I can tell that Jackson's so happy to have daddy back in his life!

Not to mention that I am happy to get my lie-ins again! Admittedly - mum and dad helped out loads when we were in Sweden but it's different with your partner. It's kinda their job to give you a hand once and again, so you never have to feel bad about requesting a lie-in or two! (Though after a month away I have requested MANY lie-ins so far!!)

It was lovely to see our friends too and I realised that I've really missed them. We went around for a BBQ at Kirstie and Chris's house and stayed up for hours talking and drinking lager. Dom has grown SO much - it's incredible how much they change! In only a few weeks he almost looks like a completely different baby.

It's funny - it really isn't that long ago since Jackson was a baby but I've forgotten it all. People kept telling me that I would, but I somehow thought I would be different. Thruth is - You do! You forget how little they are, their needs and schedules, moods, the tiredness etc.

Speaking of little, we went over to Emma's house to see her newborn son Joe. He is so scrummy! And Emma looked amazing. Like, really amazing. She made it seem like a breeze to have two kids! She was all "nah, it's alright - nothing I can't handle, sort of thing."
Same with my other friend Alex actually. Now it must be said that little Rose is the kindest baby in the world, but when I saw her last week she didn't seemed fazed at all. She was all calm and seemed unbelievably happy. So refreshing!
I guess if you're a good mother to begin with, and settled and composed, then you there's nothing you can handle.
I just think of my sister who have brought up so many children and I never really appreciated how she made it all seem so easy. I'm sure it wasn't, but she never let anything on, not to me at least...

We are changing things in our house too. Just tonight Brooks is off getting our fireplace! Finally - yay!
We're also planning an Autumn clear out soon. Oh jolly, can't wait!

New Additions

My family is growing!

I'm now an auntie again (for the 10th time!) and great aunt for the second, so I think I'm getting pretty good at this.

Little Charlie is big and snuggly, with lots of dark hair! I got plenty of cuddles and he was so nice to me and didn't cry once! Good lad!
Bro seemed like he was coping well with being a father of two. It can't be easy and I don't envy him! Though he has always had a good way with kids, they always love him, and I've no doubt he will settle in just fine.
Charlie was all but fresh from the hospital and it was lovely that I got to see the little bundle!

I met my Great nephew for the first time this week and he is an adorable little boy. He seemed to really like me too and flattered my ego with plenty of smiles and giggles. Another good lad!

All this baby business made me think of timings though.

There's that saying: "There's never a good time to have a baby!".

How does one know? I mean, what should one actually base this on?

Should you base it on your financial situation?
Can you actually afford another mouth to feed, nappies to be bought, an abundance of baby parahanelia to be purchased and invade your life and home?
Don't get me started on buggy prices!

Or perhaps you base it on your private life. Are you happy and content?
Having children, however lovely, does put a massive strain on your relationship. There are bound to be cracks and if there were some before then they may get even bigger.
On the other hand they may not - I have friends who say that their relationship changed for the better immediately after childbirth.
Then your home itself.. Have you got space? I never really consider this at first. I mean, how much space can a child take up right? The answer is: more space than you will ever have.

Then there's your career to consider.
Regardless of your profession and your arrangements at home - the woman is more likely to stay at home for the most part, if not for the whole part.
It is very hard to get back into the rat race and for someone like me, in the ever- searching-youth-elixir field then the clock is always against you.
There's only so much time I can take off in order not to fall off the bandwagon. Or choose to stay off.
However much I love acting and writing, my priorities have undoubtedly changed.

If it's your second then timings are crucial - especially as you have to factor in your firstborn. This is a whole different ballgame alltogether.
Do you go for the two year gap or the three year gap? Or do you wait even longer? Or, as for some of my friends, as little as a year?
You want to make sure that your first child isn't neglected when they baby arrives but also give space for number two to grow and feel special...

I guess, in the end, you just have to go with what feels best for you.
Perhaps there's never a good time. But then, maybe there's never a bad time either?