MERRY CHRISTMAS!!

Jamie's First Trip to the Cinema

Jamie has a tendency to get over excited while we are watching films at home, so I have delayed our first outing to the cinema. 

When I saw Arthur Christmas advertised at The Venue in Lincoln www.thevenuelincoln.co.uk/ I thought it was about time.....so I asked cousin Noah and my brother if they fancied joining us. 

We got there early and got some good seats in the middle where there was space in front of us.  I thought that best if Jamie / Noah felt like kicking the seats in front.  I have to say that it was better than expected.  Jamie had a bit of a shout during a scary bit half way through, and Noah needed a wee, but other than that they were pretty much well-behaved.  And the film was brilliant. 

Will definitely be taking Jamie again!!

Blog Baby 38

A new cousin for Jamie.  Born 4.28am on Christmas Eve - 8lb 11oz
Isaac George

Santa has a sore throat!!

Santa should have gone to Jamie's school yesterday but had to cancel as he had a sore throat....

I do hope he is better for next week!!

'Saving My Poo'

Jamie told me yesterday morning, as we got to school, that he "saves his poo's" for when he is at home.  He had a little panic, as he was desperate to go to the loo and wanted to go home to do it.  Luckily I managed to convince him that it would be OK at school, as mummy would go with him.....

Christmas Craft Afternoon

 Carols followed by crafts, instead of a nativity as the school hall is out of action at the moment. 

No Joseph or a Shepherd but a bauble and a Christmas tree!!

Carols in the Sunshine

All Aboard the Santa Special!!

The 3 Musketeers take Woodside!!

Took Jamie to Woodside for a 'Park School Massive' reunion at www.woodsidefalconry.com/

It was great.  Not only Woodside itself, but Jamie, Archie and Joseph all had a fantastic time.  It was like they had never been apart!!

Nativity on the Green

Meeting Santa with cousin Alannah.

Writing Christmas Cards

Lego City Advent Calendar

When I first saw these last year, I was tempted to get one for Jamie but then worried about the small parts. 

I was also worried that the same thing would happen as with Ella - that she opened all the doors on the first day so she could play with everything at once!  This is also the problem with the chocolate ones.....but so far, we have managed to keep Jamie to just opening the numbers for the day - but then he does have 2 Spiderman chocolate advent calendars.

This year, I once again thought about the Lego advent calendars but the prices just seemed a bit over the top.  Then, shortly before the 1st December, we spied them in Sainsburys at just over £10.

It has definitely been worth it!  Jamie loves it and as each day there is a little figure to make, there does not seem the need to open more than one door.  I particularly like the little Christmas tree he has made and the cute little snowman.

ArtyPots

Saturday went with Jamie and his friend Will to Arty Pots in Newark  www.artypots.com/

Will's mum wanted to make a mince pie plate.  Jamie had said all week he wanted to paint a flower onto a plaque to put on the wall, but when we got there he saw a Lion and so desperately wanted to make a friend for his current favourite cuddly lion......

Jamie loved it!  The afternoon cost us £40 but I am sure we used that amount in paint - especially as Jamie squirted a paint pot all over himself (wasn't I glad I put him in an old top instead of his Christmas jumper!).  To be recommended!!

Christmas Arrived....

....in the form of Lucy this weekend.  The official start of Christmas.  Had a lovely (and last minute) trip to Newark on Satuirday afternoon for a bit mof pre-Christmas shopping.  I only spent a couple of pounds in two charity shops - but Jamie loved his little cat and Spiderman DVD.  Thenm after shopping we got some chips and sat in Newark Castelbefore a final play in the park as the sun set over Newark .

saturday night and the tree was up!!  It looked a bit of a mess as we left it to two four year olds, but it looks better now I have tidied it up!

Sunday was the annula trip to the Baubkle Barn
http://www.doddingtonhall.com/bauble-barn.php
I did try not to sopend any money and only bought 3 actuial baubles, but then found a very nice star wreath to hang on the front door!

Then it was lunch to celebrate Nanna Grace's 93 birthday.

Eated far too much this weekend and Sghattered.  But a wondwerful staret to Christrtmas!!

Still hate leaving him....

Tears this morning when I left him.  We had had a little fall out.  There had been tears (on both sides).  I didn't want to leave him.  I just wanted a hug.  I wanted to know he still loved me. 

I think he did as I did get a kiss before school, but it was awful!

(Why?  He didn't believe me when I said I was taping Mike the Knight.  I told him over and over that I was, and then lost my temper!  He said he didn't believe me as I had turned the TV off!)

Date Night!!!

Mummy and daddy booked a meal and a taxi and planned to go out for the night.

In the end (after a day with Jamie and Will in the park) we couldn't be bothered.  However, we still let Jamie have a night at Nana's and it gave mummy and daddy a chance to catch up, and bask in the peace and quiet.  We also opened one of the bottles of Champagne we got for our wedding.

Oh, and we also got to watch something on TV that we both wanted - without the screams of 'put children's programmes on'.  Lately he has started screaming 'No Talking mummy', whenever I try to talk to daddy.  So, Saturday we actually had a proper conversation without being interrupted.  And perhaps even better, we both had a decent nights sleep as there was no one jiffling in between us in the bed. 

Went to pick Jamie up from Nana's Sunday morning (after having an hours cleaning time) to be told he spent the night in her bed, but she nearly went and slept in the other bed, as he had been jiffling about so much.  So same Jamie, different bed!

It was lovely while it lasted, but I was glad to have him back.....

Feeding the ducks....

Children in Need

Never seen so many Superheroes in one place!

Got to school early and while parking the car, Spiderman put his face up against the car window.  Both Jamie and I had no idea who the Spiderman really was, as he had his mask on! 

Had to get out of the car very quick so Jamie could run after him.  Luckily it was a boy from  his class but I found it difficult to keep up with them both as they raced into school.

Once in the playground, we were surrounded by Superheroes and of course Jamie was in his element. Straight away he was running with the crowd.  The crowd was made up of both children he knew and those he didn't and they soon commandeered the pirate ship which became a space ship.

Jamie was so upset when he had to go into school, but once in the classroom all the superheroes soon re-grouped.

A pound (to dress up) well spent for Children In Need!!
 

Feeling Better...

A week later and we have just about caught up.

Thursday night, Jamie missed the school disco (where he was going to dress up as Batman) and we decided it would be for the best if he did not go to school on the Friday.  He had not been sick in the night but I thought best not to risk it!  As it turned out, he was just really tired and it wasn't too difficult for Nana to step in and look after him for a few hours in the morning.

Mummy should have had a Pampered Chef party Friday night, but was forced to cancel due to Jamie being under the weather - and she was worried the smell of sick might put people off the cooking....

Saturday, Jamie was rather tired and because the weather was cold and miserable we decided that rather than venture out into the cold for a fireworks party at my brothers with cousin Noah, we had better stay in, in the cold.  I was also conscious about anyone else catching it.

We had originally said we would pick up Indie and Vicky, but unfortunately, both of them were suffering as well!!

So, a week later and I think we have just about caught up with sleep and washing.  Mummy should have gone to Bingo last night but thought an early night would be best for us all.

There is a meeting of the Friends of School tonight but I have sent my apologies.  I do want to be involved but (as I said) circumstances are conspiring against me....

Feeling Awful....

Jamie got up very early this morning, saying he wanted a 'Poo'.  However, when we got there, it wouldn't come.  He then said his milk tasted funny and asked me to get his another (Yes Sir, Will there be anything else?)

But when he said that his stomach hurt, I didn't really believe him; especially when it came after a comment with regards to him not wanting to go to school, as he didn't want to put his coat on if it was raining.

So, I woke Daddy up and we had a little chat about how he was feeling....

We decided to send him to school, but I promised Jamie that I would have a word with his teacher before I left, that if he did feel ill, she would ring me.

Drove Jamie to school and he seemed a bit more cheerful, but as we parked he started saying his tummy hurt again.  I told him the fresh air would do him good.  We got the playground and saw Joseph and his mummy, but I could see that Jamie really didn't want to be there.

I feel sick mummy, and with that he threw up all over the playground (and himself).  So, straight back home with both mummy and Jamie feeling dreadful.

Sad thing is, it is the school disco tonight.  I had once again offered to help, and once again I have had to say I can't at the last minute.....

We shall see how he is in the morning, but I can't see him going to school on Friday.

No Toilet Rolls, Thank you

Had a request from school this week for empty yogurt pots and rolls to make some fireworks crafts with, so I rummaged through the recycle bin and took in a load of stuff for the teacher.  However, I was told that they could not accept the toilet rolls........

I voice my 'concerns' on Facebook - What's all this BS about schools can't accept empty toilet rolls? - and got the following comments:

It's in case any bs so to speak on them but if microwave them for 30 secs they then safe apparently.

It's been the case for a number of years, there was a dysentery scare a few years ago but Liz is right microwaving does the trick but most schools still won't accept them!!

Same with egg boxes and salmonella!

 

I agree with Jo and Barbara who wrote:  OMG - just send some cotton wool in and we can wrap them up in it! and The world's gone mad! Tut!

 

Has the world gone mad?

 

Come to Lunch on Guy Fawkes Day

Jamie continues to have hot school meals everyday and, other than the initial week, there seems to have been no trouble with him eating them.

Today, all the parents were invited to join their children for dinner.  Unfortunately, it was organised chaos and so we didn't get to sit with Joseph and his mum.  But we did sit with Issac and his mummy - also from Park Pre-school.  But before we could sit down to our Guy Fawkes burgers, followed by ice cream, we had to queue up with the rest of the school!! 

Although it was a bit rushed, Daddy did get chance to have a chat with one of the dinner ladies who said things were easier now they had got used to 'Jamie's little ways', which apparently includes no one touching his food!! 

After we had finished dinner, both mummy and daddy had to get back to go to work and this upset Jamie as I think he thought we would be there all day!

As well as cousin Noah's annual fireworks party on Saturday and this lunch time treat today, the children are to be having sparklers at school on Friday and I have just been rummaging through my bin looking for toilet rolls and yogurt pots as requested to help with their 'bonfire crafts'.

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!

Including Mummy, Daddy and Jamie, we had 32 people around for a Halloween Party (19 adults and 13 children) at the weekend.   Daddy had been working on the Haunted House / garage since last year and it was super scary - there was a lot of hand holding.......and then later it turned into a disco with 'Ghostbusters' blaring out of the speakers.  

We had pumpkin soup; made by Nanna B, and Cobbs brought Chilli Hot Dogs!  We got to use our fire pit that we had bought with our wedding money, and auntie Christine helped cut some super pumpkins.  Most people - and all of the children - came in fancy dress.

And for the first time, we played 'The Mummy Game'.  Not sure if we played by the official rules but it was brilliant!   There was toilet roll all over the garden when we had finished, but with the promise of some 'Treats' we managed to clear most of it away.

Next year, Daddy says we are moving the scary to the end of the garden.  Perhaps I will have a spooky summerhouse by then!

Jamie's Targets

Following out chat with Jamie's teacher (see: http://grumpymumtobe.blogspot.co.uk/2013/10/parent-consultation.html)  we have now been given Jamie's targets for the end of term.

Reading
I recognise the first 20 sounds from phonics.
I can hear and say the initial sound in a word.
I can match initial sounds to pictures and objects.

Writing / Pencil Control
I can write my name using the correct letter formation.
I can write the letters I know from phonics with the correct letter formation.
I am beginning to write initial sounds as labels for my pictures etc. when working independently.

Physical / PSE Development
I know which order to take my clothes off and put them on.
I can ask for help with buttons, turning clothes through etc.
I can get dressed by myself.

Good Signs...

Once upon a time, the thought of driving to Nottingham would have filled me with dread!  But today, I prepared my route, took a deep breath, set off (very) early and conquered all my fears.  Other than a small altercation on the roundabout; where I found myself in the wrong lane, I actually enjoyed my drive there and (even better) back.

It was all about being positive and looking for signs.  When the radio mentioned Huey Lewis being Number One on the American Billboard with Fore!  X number of years ago (I don't want to show my age) and then played 'Stuck with you', I got a warm feeling.

And once I got to the course venue, I had some time spare to catch up on some reading; rather than rushing in late, like the last course I went to......

Parent Consultation

Monday night me and Jamie went for a little chat with his teacher.  Jamie had got in from school only an hour before and had fallen straight to sleep, so I was worried he might be rather mardy.  However, he behaved himself perfectly, and even had a little chat with his teacher at the end.  It is clear to see she is doing her job well; not only because he has come on leaps and bounds in the last few weeks, but also because of the way that Jamie interacts with her.

Her main concern was that Jamie worries too much.   He worries he can't put his coat on, then worries no one will help him and then worries he will never learn to put his own coat on.  Jamie thinks that if he can't do something, then he is doing it wrong.  It probably doesn't help that there are Year One's in his class who (being a year older) can all put their own coats on.  As his teacher emphasised to him.  Its not that he is doing it wrong.  He just needs practice.  Jamie has often said that his teacher won't help him with his coat, but I think it is more to do with the fact, she wants him to TRY !  He knows what to do, he just gets frustrated and gives up too soon.  She emphasised it was ok to ask for help, but he needs to try to do it by himself before he asked for help!

I asked her whether or not he was on a level with the rest of the children and his teacher said there were no worries with regards to his level at all.   I mentioned about cousin Lucy being able to read already, but also told her about Jamie knowing the words to The Incredibles. She said this was really good as it showed Jamie was understanding the story structure; how words fit together to make the story etc.

His confidence has certainly improved enormously and there have been no problems at school. He has certainly settled well into Ling Moor. He has already made some new friends, as well as the friends he still talks about from pre-school.  His talking has improved tremendously!

I was very pleased with what she said.  So much so, that I took Jamie for a little shop afterwards and bought micro chips, chocolate, cheese balls and a Disney Comic (£3.99 !!).

We are just waiting a list of Jamie's targets for the coming term.

Halloween has come early.....

Jamie had a little accident in the playground yesterday.  Running about madly (as he does) at dinner time, and he falls flat on his face.  I asked him if there was anywhere else that he had hurt himself, but it seems it was just his face.  There was a first aid note in his bad.  It stated 'First Aid Done', which I think meant putting some ice on his lip.  It doesn't seem to bother him.  He just looks a bit of a mess.

And mummy? Woke up this morning with a large stye in my eye, that meant I struggled to open my eye for a while.  Have got it open and have taken some anti-histamines and paracetamol, but it doesn't look pretty.  According to the NHS website the best cure is bathing it in hot water, which I have done; along with putting eye drops in throughout the morning.

If I worked in a shop, they would have me stacking shelves in the back today....

Contented......

 

Had a lovely Hen Night on Friday night with Kerry and all of my closest friends. There were 12 of us in total.  A few people were unable to make it (sadly) due to illness (its that time of year), but I have had a number of messages / texts from people who seem to think they should have been invited. 

 

All those people who joined us on Friday had made the effort so send a card and / or buy a present to congratulate me on my wedding.  Perhaps I am old fashioned, but I feel this defines how people feel about you.  Just making that extra effort to show how they care.   And then other people come along, asking why they weren't invited.  Friendship (for me) is more than a name on Facebook or a contact in your phone; its someone who cares enough to go that extra mile.  I am glad to say (and contented) that I have some lovely friends who do that for me.  

 

Perhaps its my age (or because I am a mother), but I am beginning to see people for what they are.  Life is about Quality not Quantity.  In the old days I would have invited everyone on my Hen Night and would not have felt it was a good night unless there were loads of us.  But all I wanted on Friday were my closest friends.  And I got them.  With Cocktails!!!

 

Mr Incredible

Lying in our (new) bed last night with Daddy dozing beside us (as he is on nights this week), I sat and read a number of books with Jamie.  When we got to 'The Incredibles' I could not believe it when Jamie started 'reading' along - word for word.  He knew most of the story.  I doubt he was actually reading the words, but he certainly had memorised the story. 

It was amazing, and however he did it, we were very proud!!

"Superheroes Don't Wear Long Socks"

According to Jamie......

What do you do if your 4 year old still sleeps in your bed?

Buy a bigger bed!!

Just invested in a King Size......

Blog Baby 37

Congratulations to Katy and Grey on the safe arrival of Emilia Kerry Joan Clements born at 7.30am on the 6th September weighing 8lbs 11ozs.  A little sister for Will.   All the best from Jamie and the rest of the Simpsons Xx

Our Wedding Poem : The Meaning

To love is to share life together
to build special plans just for two
to work side by side
and then smile with pride
as one by one, dreams all come true.

To love is to help and encourage
with smiles and sincere words of praise
to take time to share
to listen and care
in tender, affectionate ways.

To love is to have someone special
one who you can always depend
to be there through the years
sharing laughter and tears
as a partner, a lover, a friend.

To love is to make special memories
of moments you love to recall
of all the good things
that sharing life brings
love is the greatest of all.

I've learned the full meaning
of sharing and caring
and having my dreams all come true;
I've learned the full meaning
of being in love
by being and loving with you.

- Kellie Spehn –

"When do we stop doing PE?"

This question was posed to me one morning last week on the way to school....

Turns out it was because Jamie didn't like getting changed by himself and didn't like having to ask for help.

So this weekend we made a concerted effort to get Jamie to dress and undress himself, and he has come on in leaps and bounds.  He is still a bit confused when it comes to socks - and the occasional jumper - but he is actually asking to do it himself!!

He really is growing up......

Colouring his toys

On holiday Jamie started colouring his toys.  All his little Smurf toys from McDonald's, his Avengers and Peppa Pig have had the treatment.  And Poor Buzz has had a beard on more than one occasion!!  I don't really mind, except he gets pen all over his hands and its a bugger to wash off!!

He is still colouring pictures off the computer and demands pictures of Toy Story characters and the Avengers nearly every day; which he continues to play with. 

I saw a great present for him on Channel 4's The Gadget Man   www.channel4.com/programmes/gadget-man  - The Doodle Duvet - www.stitchdesignworks.co.uk/store/doodle/doodle-duvet-single-uk-size-file-paper-print-duvet-cover-with-washout-pens-set.html    !!!

Noahs Superhero Party!!

Noah was four, a few weeks ago, but was on his hols on the Isle of White, so they decided to celebrate this weekend.  As he is a 4 year old boy, the only party that he really wanted was a Superhero one!!

 

 This photo shows a 'quiet' moment when Jamie, Will and Noah were awaiting 'Pass the Parcel'.  This was about the only time they were quiet.  It was madness!!  My brother hired the same Spiderman bouncy castle that we had for Jamie's party, and there seemed to be some kind of 'fight' going on, on it, permanently.  When I say 'fight' I don't necessarily mean real - painful - fighting, but rather play fighting!!  You could almost smell the testosterone!!

I thought school would wear him out!!

It's been a long week......Jamie's first full week of school and I can honestly say that he is nowhere as tired as I thought he would be.  In fact, the last few days he has had more energy than ever!!  Rather than coming in and flopping down in front of the TV (as mummy would love to do) Jamie has been coming home and wanting to Play, Play, Play!!

"Why didn't you catch me daddy?"

Jamie was throwing himself about tonight.  Mainly at daddy, but then backwards and forwards over the bed.  He was having a great time; laughing and screaming and shouting, until he went BANG onto the floor.   As he sat on the floor at the end of the bed, all he had to say was "Why didn't you catch me Daddy?"

Blog Baby 36

Congratulations to Carol and Jon who had a baby girl - Gracie Brooke - on the 13th September weighing 7lb 4oz. 

Have not seen Carol in ages, but intend to send her a card.....She bought Jamie a lovely Octopus soft toy which he loved as a baby!

Friends of School

Yesterday was Jamie's first full day at school and mummy's first meeting of the Ling Moor Friends of School.  

Turned out that from the whole of the 'new' parents, I was the only one to turn up to the meeting!  Unfortunately, I had Jamie with me who was not only very tired and very fidgety, but he also had refused to eat his lunch and so was very hungry.

I did stay for most of the meeting (I think) and did volunteer for the next Ling Moor Open Eve in October.  And I did learn about the extension to the school hall......

First Full Day At School

Felt like crying as I left Jamie at school today.  This was the first day I have taken him to school since his first day.  Daddy has taken him every day since then.  Up until today he has only been doing 8.45am til 11.30, today its FULL TIME. 

As we walked into the school grounds we saw Isobel.  He knows Isobel from Park and they have always been friends.  Today he kept stopping to wait for her and then ran after he when she did, but she didn't really want to play with Jamie.  When we got into the classroom, Joseph was there, but again, Jamie just wanted to play with Isobel.   Another - bigger boy - came over and said 'Hi' so it was nice to see Jamie had made a new friend.

Is this going to be the story of his life: chasing around after women, while they ignore him......I hope not!

Isobel does seen so much more confident than Jamie, and actually, she does seem bigger than him (even with his big feet!)

As for mummy, it was weird being in the playground with all the other parents.  There were little sections of parents stood together and its hard not to feel excluded.  I did speak to Joseph's mum though, so didn't feel too bad about having no friends.

And its his first full day with Lunch,  as we have paid for hot dinners for him.  We have talked to him every day about the need to eat everything, but he was already moaning 'he didn't like Beef Burgers' this morning.  When I said they were 'like a McDonanlds' he changed his mind.....

It's not like Nursery / Pre School where I can ring to check if he is OK during the day.  I shall just have to wait til I pick him up....

Big Foot / Feet

While in Sainsbury's this afternoon we popped along to Clarks.

Can't believe that Jamie now has size 11 and a half (F) feet.

Didn't get any Clarks, as wasn't sure of the colour he should wear at school, but did buy him some size 12 Superman wellies!!

Paper Friends

Jamie has a curious game at the moment where he 'plays' with pictures that he has coloured in.

He has a sent of Avengers pictures, a set of Toy Story pictures and some Smurfs.

It started off one afternoon whereby Jamie kept requesting characters from Toy Story to be printed off the computer, so that he could colour them in.  But once he had coloured them in, he didn't want to put them on the wall or show them to anyone, he just wanted to 'play' with them.  Now, when we watch Toy Story, the rest of the (paper) characters must watch it as well.  He got very upset this morning when we could not find Little Bo Peep!!  At the weekend he put Emperor Zurg in 'jail', which just so happened to be the other side of the garden gate.  Jamie got very upset when Zurg blew away!!

Jamie's new teacher had given each of the children in the class a scrap book to fill with photos, paintings, drawings, tickets, etc. to show her what they had been up to over the summer holidays.  I knew when Jamie had shown the teacher his, as he got very upset with me, as I had stuck in one of his 'characters' to show his teacher his colouring skills.   I am not sure she got to hear about his holiday - of which I included some photographs and information - as I think he was too mad with mummy for including a Hulk and a Spiderman picture (not to mention Batman and Robin). 

How did it go?

Jamie was a bit apprehensive at first, but after he saw Joseph he seemed a lot happier, and daddy and I (and Josephs mum) left them looking round their new classroom holding hands.  When daddy picked Jamie up, he talked about who he had been playing with - mainly the other children from his nursery.  He was shattered!!

First Day At School

Since getting married, coming home from our hols, Jamie's last day at nursery, getting the house ready for the wedding reception and mummy getting used to working 5 hours a day (every day), there has not been a lot of time for anything else.  My blogs have suffered, and my 'To Do' list gets longer everyday!

However, we did manage to get Jamie kitted out nicely for his first day at school (and labelled!) 

We have also chosen (and paid for) his hot school meals from his first full day (next Thursday) til October half term......

The Wedding 'Reception'

In order to make amends after planning a 'secret' wedding, Daddy and I decided to organise a party for all our relations and some close friends.  In order to save money, we invited everyone to the house and set up the party in the garden.  The weather was on our side and so we only had to put up one gazebo (we had borrowed 3 more).  We ordered a barrel of beer (Lincoln Best) and Nana and Kerry helped with making sarnies (and plum loaf and cup cakes).  Cousin Lucy, Dean and Christine came for the weekend and helped with the preparation, food and tidying up.   Cousin Noah, Michael and Hannah also came along early to help.   For the children we hired a bouncy castle, which went down a storm!    Thank you everyone for helping and / or coming to the party! It was another perfect day.

View from the Bouncy Castle  (Jamie and Noah sat at the colouring table) :

Blog Baby 35

Congratulations to Harrys mummy, Karen, who gave birth to Eva Grace on the 24th at 7.30pm, weighing 6lbs.

Mummy and Daddy Got Married.....

 

 While on holiday we got married!!  And so did 'the girls' mummy and daddy.  We had had this planned since just after we booked the holiday - nearly a year ago - and we told no-one!!  'The girls' were our bridesmaids and the boys were our paigeboys, and each couple acted as witnesses for the other.   After the ceremony at Fakenham registry office we went for a lovely meal at The Blakeney Hotel.  Daddy treated us to a bottle of Champagne and I had fresh lobster.  Our 'reception' took place in the garden of P&Ks holiday cottage.  It was Perfect!!

Fantastic Holiday!!

Just come back from a wonderful holiday in Blakeney, Norfolk with 'the girls'.  The photo shows 'The Wet Gang' on their way to some mud sliding......

Little To Worry About......

It seems that if you have little in life, you have little to worry about.  If you have much, it seems you have much to lose.

Rick Ray in his documentary 10 Questions for the Dalai Lama as quoted in Zero Waste Home: The Ultimate Guide to Simplifying Your Life by Bea Johnson

This is a book to be widely recommended.  I saw her on breakfast TV and borrowed the book from the library (as she suggested!).  The book is very much about de-cluttering and emphasises the need to have experiences as opposed to stuff!!

Playing with dolls......

Nanna Mo gave Jamie a Darth Vader doll recently and he loves to dress and undress it.

Should I be worried?

Fashion Conscious?

Just lately Jamie has started to dictate what he wears in a morning. 

He doesn't want to wear the clothes I put out for him. 

In fact, he won't wear anything that doesn't have a super hero on it!!

End of my first week at work.....

....have loved it, but Oh.    So.    Tired.....

Sharing is (Not) Caring....

......is actually cheating!!

Came home from work yesterday to a manic Jamie - not what I want in my first week at work!

Managed to persuade him to play 'Snap' with some of my old picture cards that I found on my recent de-clutter.

Jamie was fine when he won, but he insisted on taking the pile when mummy won as well!!  And when I complained, I was told that 'Sharing is Caring.'   That pre-school has a lot to answer for......

Summer Holidays Are Here!

And just at the wrong time - as mummy gets a job!

Part of me is sad, part happy. We need the money, but I had been looking forward to my last summer with Jamie.....

So that means we have 6 weeks to make sure someone is looking after / entertaining Jamie.   My diary is a mass of scribbles at the moment as I try to coordinate who is working when (daddy currently working a 3 shift system) and who is free to look after Jamie.

Luckily Nursery can have him for two days during 3 of the weeks, and between Nana and Grandad we have (just about) covered the gaps.  We offered Nana payment, but she just asks that we pay for her hair appointments.  I think Nursery is going to cost about £160, but it will be worth it as once Jamie starts school my job fits perfectly around him. 

Unfortunately, this means we have used up all our babysitting points, so no nights out between now and September.  We do have a holiday booked in the middle of all this though, and am looking forward to being able to treat us all....

......and can you believe I have now been writing this blog 6 years?

Present for teacher

While Jamie has been at Pre-School, the leader of the Caterpillar Group; Amelia, has always been very good and looked after Jamie.   This is why I decided to buy her a special present to say 'Many Thanks'. 

I know that a lot of the other mums bought presents, and I can see that it is something that is almost expected nowadays, but it certainly wasn't in my day!  I can't remember ever buying a teacher a 'Thank You' present.  But I do think Amelia worked hard with Jamie and so was pleased to be able to give her something that showed how grateful we are. 

I just hope she likes it!! 

I have to add that I almost cried when I gave her the glass heart, as it was the last time I will see her and the pre-school team.....my little boy is growing up.....

That hat mummy made......

.....for Jamie's graduation (I was so proud of myself doing something creative) must have made an impression as.....

....this morning a young lady called Isobel brought a drawing she had done especially for Jamie!

Ok, I let him wear his Spiderman pants....

Jamie's Graduation from Pre-School

Jamie has spent all morning trying to convince me he can wear his Superman outfit to his graduation (and photos before)......

Street Dance!

Took Jamie to Street Dance / Cheeky Monkeys Crew (age 3-5) on Saturday.

http://www.spotlight-ds.com/

He loved it!  

I think it helped that his friend Harry was there, but as I watched from the next room he was great at following directions and doing the moves!!  Going to take him back for the next few weeks before they break up for summer......

Mummy Got a Job!!

Which is good and then its not...

It's good because mummy will have some money - which if course will pay for nice things.  However, she won't have any time to spend with Jamie (or to spend the money) - bit of a Catch 22 situation!

So today I have been trying to get all of the niggly jobs out of the way - like Tax Assessment Forms, Contracts, Health Questionnaires, not to mention housework, while waiting to see if there are any places during the holidays at Park to take Jamie.  Nana says she will look after him a couple of days a week (it is only for 5/6 weeks) but I need to find out which days they have free (if any) at the Nursery. 

Once again, the start of a new job is made ever-more stressful because of the need to sort out child care!!

Chat with Jamie's Teacher

Following my chat with Jamie's keyworker, see: http://grumpymumtobe.blogspot.co.uk/2013/07/chat-with-jamies-key-worker.html)   I was glad of the chance to have a short chat with Jamie's teacher. 

I discussed the key worker chat, and said that I agreed with her that Jamie lacks confidence in social situations and often needs a lot of encouragement to join in.  Jamie has never been one to push himself forward, but if feeling confident there is no stopping him!

I told her about the morning at the fire station when he said he did not want to use the water hose, but when I took him forward with me, he was soon having a fantastic time - on his own - not noticing that I had stood back!

She asked what he liked, so I of course said superheroes, and told him that everything was a Superhero at the moment.  I said about not agreeing with his keyworker about his 'imagination' (below expectations) and described Jamie and daddy in the garden the night before; building a castle for the Hulk to break down!

She asked about his literacy and I told her about cousin Lucy being able to read already, but that Jamie could already recognise a lot of letters - certainly those in his first name and some of his second.  I said we did a lot of reading and Jamie tried to follow the words as I read.

As for numeracy.  I told her how he will often count 1 to 20 when playing hide and seek, but when asked to count to 20 can't sometimes do it!  Too much pressure!

I said we did not think he was that sporty, but he does love music and dancing!  I also told her daddy was grade 7 at piano and could play the guitar.....

She seemed happy with what I told her and said the main areas we needed to work on with Jamie over the summer were dressing himself and toileting.

My Son - The "Super Noodie!"

Not sure if we can show many of the photos I have taken over the last few glorious weekends playing in the pool with Noah and then Will, but we have an awful lot of pictures to bring out at their 21st parties / weddings!!  Jamie loves playing 'Super Noodie'.....
   

Trips Out!

Jamie has had two trips from pre-school this week and, as mummy is not working, she has been able to go along as a helper.  I have to say I really enjoyed this, and it was nice to see Jamie playing with all his pals.  Tuesday, Jamie went on the bus to South Hykeham School.  We have visited the school before and it was actually second on our list of choices for Jamie.  It is a lovely local school and the children enjoyed - not only the trip on the bus - but playing in the fantastic playground; which has its own castle.

On Friday, it was the rearranged trip to the local Fire Station.   I made a few people chuckle on Facebook when I wrote I was only wearing lipstick for the SPF, but it was a lovely day!  Originally it had to be cancelled due to the rain.  This time the helpers (including me) led the children along the paths from Pre-school to the Station.  Jamie was a bit nervous at the Fire Station and initially did not want to have a go with the hose, as he said he did not want to get wet.  So I asked if he would 'come with mummy' and before long he was doing it all by himself!!

Chat with Jamies Key worker

Got a bit worried last week as we got sent home a sheet - a copy of which will be sent to Jamie's new school - that lists how he is doing at the moment.  This is based on the Early Years Foundation, which has 7 areas of learning and development which are inter-connected and used to assess a child's development from birth to the end of their first (reception) year in school. 

The prime areas being; communication and language, physical development and personal, social and emotional development.  The other 4 areas are; literacy, mathematics, understanding the world, and expressive arts and design.   Jamie was ranked 'As Expected', 'Beyond Expectation' and then 'Below'.

Now, I wasn't expecting him to be 'Beyond' in any, but I was surprised at how many he seemed to be below expectations...  I therefore asked to have a chat with his key worker so she could show me what each section consisted of and what Jamie was being ranked against.

I have to say that I did actually agree with what she (mostly) had to say, but there were a few discrepancies between what they see at Pre-school and what we see at home.

The general feeling is that Jamie lacks confidence and would rather hang back than join in.  We talked about what he is good at and because of this I have put him down for street dance rather than football this term!  I am hoping this will bring him out of the shell that seems to exist when in the 'outside world'.  It certainly does not exist at home!

I found this chat quite emotional.  I even asked if she thought he might be 'Autistic' to which she replied;  "We are all on the Autistic spectrum somewhere!!"   Not sure this made me feel any better....

Got a meeting with Jamie's teacher on Wednesday so hopefully will be able to address some of the issues raised with her.

Happy Birthday Grandad!

It was granddad's birthday today and Jamie wrote and coloured the card in himself.

6 Years of Blogging

Happy Birthday Blog....

Afternoon at 'Big School'

"But I'm not big enough yet, mummy" was what Jamie had to say when I said he was off to 'big' school for the afternoon.

There were a few tears during the morning (as I did not send him to pre-school) but as soon  as he saw Joseph walking towards him, as we got to the school gates, he was fine.

At the end of the session, Jamie left with a scrap book, in which he has been asked to put in photos, drawings, paintings, achievements and tickets etc. from days out during the summer.  I had already planned to do with this Jamie, so this is nice that he has been given his own scrap book and his teacher will get to see it as well!

After he had finished his afternoon with his new teacher, daddy collected him, and they found out that it was sports day.   Walking along the playing field they saw granddad and Auntie Tracy who were both there watching Alannah.  So all-in-all Jamie had a good afternoon.....

......other than the fact he came home with a sick note saying 'Your child has bumped his head', but you would not have noticed.  Only second day there and already he is already in the accident book! 

9 Rules for a Simpler Day

Received his email recently from Zen Habits - See: http://zenhabits.net/
He suggests 9 rules for a simpler day:

1.       Know What’s Important. The simple version of simplifying is “Identify what’s important, and eliminate the rest.” So take time to identify the most important things in your life (4-5 things), and then see what activities, tasks, projects, meeting and commitments fit in with that list. Also take time each day to identify 1-3 Most Important Tasks (MITs), at the beginning of your day. Or the night before, for the next day.

2.       Visualize Your Perfect Day. This is not so much because this “perfect day” will come true, as it is to understand what a simple day means to you. It’s different for each person — for me, it might mean some meditation and writing and spending time with my wife and kids. For others, it’s yoga and painting and a hot bath. For others, it’s time to focus on the important work, but still get other things done later in the day. Take a minute to visualize what it means to you.

3.       Say No to Extra Commitments. Now that you’ve identified what’s important, along with the “perfect day”, you need to start saying “No” to things that aren’t on your important list, and that are standing in the way of the perfect day. The biggest thing you can say No to is a commitment — membership on a committee, involvement in a project, coaching or participating in a team, etc. List and evaluate your commitments (professional, civic and personal), and say No to at least one. It just takes a call or email.

4.       Limit Tasks. Each morning, list your 1-3 most important tasks. List other tasks you’d like to do. Say no to some of them. See if you can limit your list to 5-7 tasks per day (not counting little things, which you’ll batch). Limiting your tasks helps you focus, and acknowledges you’re not going to get everything done in one day.

5.       Carve Out Un-distraction Time. When are you going to do your most important work? Schedule it with a block of time (1 hour, 2 hours, 4 hours, whatever works for you). Make this your most sacred appointment. Become incommunicado. Close the Internet, all notifications, hold all calls. Just do the most important task, then the next one if you have time.

6.       Slow Down. We rush through our days, almost in a single frenetic anxiety-filled non-stop movement. Instead, slow down. Life won’t collapse if you aren’t rushing from task to task, email to email. You can pause, take a moment to reflect, smile, enjoy the current task before moving on.

7.       Mindfully Single-task. Stop multi-tasking. One task at a time, with full focus on that task. Practice mindfulness as you do the task — it’s a form of meditation. Watch your thoughts wander to what you need to do later, but then return to the task at hand. Your day will be much simpler, and much more enjoyable, when you practice being present with your current task.

8.      Batch Smaller Tasks, Then Let go. Email, paperwork, little things at the bottom of your task list (create a “small tasks” section at the bottom), minor phone calls, etc. … these shouldn’t get in the way of your important tasks. But they still need to be done sometime (unless you can let them go, which is best whenever possible). If you need to do them, batch them and do them in one go. It’s best to do these later in the day, when your energy is lower and you’ve done the important tasks for the day. Don’t let the small tasks get in the way of the big ones.

9.       Create Space Between. We cram our tasks and meetings together, and leave no spaces between them. The space between things is just as important as the things themselves. Leave a little space between meetings, even tasks. Take a break to stretch, walk around, get a glass of water, perhaps do some simple breathing meditation for a minute or two. Enjoy the space.

Leavers Tea Towel 2013

This is Jamie's bit on the Tea Towel that we recently purchased showing all the Park School Day Nursery Leavers 2013

We Love Sundown!!

Once sports day was over, cousin Lucy arrived for the night.  Her daddy and Jamie's daddy were off to see The Who.  Auntie Chrissie and me took Jamie and Lucy for a lovely (kids eat for £1) meal at a local pub.  Dean would have called it 'extreme pubbing' as the pub is next to a main road, but Jamie and Lucy loved it as it had a little playground and some other children came along to play too!

What they also loved was our trip to Sundown the next morning. I was a bit worried that  Dean etc. might think it was a bit expensive (£11.95 each) but everyone had such a fantastic day.  The weather was lovely and there was hardly any tears.  Lucy didn't like the water squirting on her as we went round the pirate ride (Boozy Barrel Boat Ride), but the second time we went the water wasn't working so that was even better.  We went on the Rocky Mountain Railroad, the Robin Hood ride and the Tractor Ride more than once.  The photo shows Lucy and Jamie on the Tractor Ride - trying to catch up to Dean and Christine!   There was a number of play parks and weird story book houses and castles, the Yellow Brick Road and a wonderful sweetie adventure.  And don't forget the Santa Sleigh Ride..... And all (virtually) on our doorstep!!

Wonderful day.  Highly recommended!!  www.sundownadventureland.co.uk/themepark/

Sports Day

Jamie's sports day at pre-school on Tuesday.  Unfortunately, he fell over on the way to the event (excited about competing) and grazed his arm and leg quite badly (blood!).  This meant before he could compete he had to have a plaster put on both wounds.  And then he wasn't in the mood for much running about.  He looked in shock throughout all of the morning - but that may have been due to being asked to run while balancing something on his head.  We definitely didn't practise that!!

 

Happy Fathers Day

I don't care if you are a rock star 'in the studio' this weekend Daddy, its time to get up and play 'Superman'!!!

Questions, Questions, Mummy, Mummy.....

I love my son dearly......but just recently I seem to be faced with a barrage of questions - fired one after another without time for me to think, before the next one comes.  And if I don't answer quick enough, Jamie asks it again and again until he is happy I have answered it.  He will also ask the question again or shout "mummy" if he thinks I am not listening to him, or have not answered his question.  He likes me to be facing him when I answer and make a definite sound - a grunt or a simple 'yes' will not do!!

Oh, and there is also the constant "Mummy, mummy, mummy", which can drive you mental at 6 in the morning!!

Daddy started a new job this week and will be away most of the weekend, so daddy and Jamie had a boys night; watching a Marvel Avengers film with all of Jamie's current favourites - Iron Man, Thor, Black Widow, Hawk Eye etc.   I spent some time catching up on paperwork and jobs to be done but I could hear Jamie with his constant questions....

First morning over...

On the way to Jamie's first morning at 'big school', we stopped to do some shopping.  It was then I realised that although mummy looked good this time (shower, hair washed, make up) Jamie had not combed his hair or cleaned his teeth!

Jamie had a number of wobbles on the way, but I kept telling him that he was just going to 'play' and that made him feel better.  When we got to the school, I had to pick up his uniform, hand over the big pile of forms and also show his birth certificate.  There were a few children already there and all of them had the same bemused look on their faces.  Jamie recognised a few (as did I) and we sat with Sam and his mummy.  I have met his mummy's sister before and I certainly felt better for chatting to her.  Sam seemed as nervous as Jamie.

As we took them to Reception, mummy was nervous and when it came to leave Jamie I really did feel tearful.  However, the teacher took hold of Jamie's hand and off he went to play....

Two hours later and Jamie loved it!!  He had loved playing on the pirate ship in the outdoor area and talked all about the other children he had played with.   We now know who Jamie's teacher will be and he has another afternoon session in a few weeks.

First morning at Big School tomorrow...

.....and mummy has a form to fill in asking about Jamie's 'Personal, Social and Emotional Development,' his 'Expressive Arts and Design,' his 'Physical Development,' his 'Communication and Language' and his 'Mathematical Development.' 

Can't say there is anything that stands out as being a worry from my point of view - perhaps his inability to ride a bike just yet......

He is to spend two hours there tomorrow morning and has to take a bottle of water (not juice) and a piece of fruit.  I have laid out some clothes for him already and will get up early to ensure my hair is washed and mummy looks presentable.  The last time I went into school to order his uniform, I looked a right state and of course got chatting to the Head!!

My Son, The Hulk!!

Family (from Aussie) Fun Day

After missing everyone over the bank holiday weekend due to the illness, I was so glad we got a chance to have an afternoon with Khanly, Charlie and Ruben at the park.  The weather was gorgeous and there was music on the bandstand and a few rides, a bouncy castle and trampolines, as well as the park itself.  We all had a lovely afternoon and it was great to see everyone before they went back to Aussie.

School Uniform Ordered

School uniform ordered for September:

2 Sweatshirts
2 Polo Shirts
1 PE kit
1 Coat

Grand Total of £57

Still need to buy him some grey trousers and / or shorts for school and some black plimsolls and white socks for gym.  Not to mention a new pair of 'sensible shoes'.

Bank Holiday Weekend.....and then it got messy!!

The start of the bank holiday weekend was brilliant.  We got a text from Uncle Dean on Saturday morning saying they were at a lost end and could they come and stay for the weekend. 

They were here early afternoon and I left them planning a BarBQ as I went off to see Thunder / Whitesnake and Journey (fantastic) at Nottingham Arena.

Sunday we took them to the North Scarle car boot and luckily the sun was shining and the little train was running.   Then we went to see Nanna Grace.

After we returned home, Uncle Dean began to feel unwell.  We all had an early night and in the morning I took Auntie Chrissie, Lucy and Jamie to another car boot within walking distance.  While we were walking around, Chrissie began to feel unwell..... 

Me and my Winky.....

We have had some strange conversations lately.  A few nights ago, Jamie asked daddy why his winky (Jamie's not daddy's) 'got bigger'.  Even daddy wasn't sure what to say!!

And the other morning, while I was sat on the toilet with Jamie asking a hundred questions, he told me he was going to make me a winky as I don't have one.

Getting Ready for Big School

Got a newsletter sent home from pre-school today entitled; 'Getting Ready for Big School'.  It makes my heart sink.  I can't believe my little boy is going to be all grown up soon!

The newsletter tells us that, in order 'to start their new school with confidence....we have a variety of activities, games, outings and events to support their move.'  They have organised a number of visits from people in the community (Fire, Police, Vet) that there will be PE from half term onwards (and the need for a PE kit!).

They will also be talking about Road Safety, Stranger Danger and the Dangers of Fire.

Prior to starting big school the children have to start to dress and undress on their own and this they will practise during the PE sessions.  We are also advised to encourage them to do this at home.

We are also asked to encourage their listening and talking skills, and also waiting their turn, as this is something that will be encouraged during circle, key group and story time!  The newsletter also mentions encouraging the children to re-tell stories by looking at pictures in books.  We continue to read with Jamie a few nights a week (at least) and Jamie is already a little story teller!

Towards the end of term Jamie will spend more time with the children who he will be going to big school with, and the newsletter concludes by telling us all about their graduation  where the children will be presented with their graduation certificates!!

Being a Rock Star!!

Lincoln Inspired Children's Day

Jamie and Will had a fantastic day as part of Lincoln Inspired Children's Day.  Where The Wild Things Are was their favourite but they also loved the Teddy Bears Picnic and Going On A Bear Hunt!!

"My Bare Lady"

Prior to going to visit Lucy in Cheltenham, I put one of Jamie's sing-a-long CDs in the car.  We all had a good sing song to 'The Wheels on the Bus' along with many others while travelling to and from Lucy's house.

Today however, Jamie informed me that the words to 'London Bridge' are NOT 'My Fair Lady' as I have always thought, but are in fact 'My Bare Lady!!'

Walking with a Dalek

As part of Lincoln Inspired www.lincolninspired.co.uk/ we took to the streets with a Dalek and there was a little boy in a Superheroes T shirt following just behind..... 

'Living the Dream' in Puzzlewood

Had a fantastic weekend with Lucy et al in Cheltenham, including a visit to Puzzlewood www.puzzlewood.net/ in the Forest of Dean.

The weather was lovely all weekend.  Bank holiday Sunday afternoon and Monday morning could even be described as hot!

And Jamie and Lucy hardly fell out at all - just a few comments with regards to 'sharing'.  In  fact some of the time we forgot they were there as they were getting on so well.  They have both got so much more independent over the last month or so.  In the park on Sunday afternoon they actually told me to go away.  (I don't blame them really.  I was trying to get a photo of them together and interrupting their play!)

The weekend reminded me (once again) of the importance of family.  It also reminded us all that happiness can come cheap.   We visited two parks during the weekend as well as the one at Puzzlewood, and on Monday we just sat in Dean and Christine's garden watching Dean move the play house while Lucy and Jamie played with water; 'painting' the fence, watering everyone and splashing about in a little tray Dean had filled with water.

'Living the Dream' we all laughed, but in the company of good friends (family) all you really need is each other - although the sun in the sky certainly helps!!

First Parents Evening

Only 16 days after getting confirmation that Jamie had a place at Ling Moor, we were all invited to a meeting at the school.  The headmistress gave us a talk about what to expect in the coming months and so did both of the first year teachers.  Jamie will be going along for his induction morning at the beginning of June and then will be told which is his specific teacher.

All parents were asked to note if your child had any friends in the same year.  We wrote Joseph, Isabelle and Noor, but I assume all the park children (I think there are 6) will be in the same class.

What was nice is that I saw a few people I knew - both from Park and from when I was at school, and also someone I had worked with......so as well as Jamies' cousin being there, I will actually know people myself.  Looks like I have signed up for the PTA Committee already!!