Holidays are coming....

Apologies for the lack of content over the last week or so. We have been plunged into Christmas chaos with school nativities, concerts, carols etc and, as ever at the least convenient time, 3 poorly kids. It looks like the weather is taking a turn too, it has definitely become much colder over the last few days, which adds to the excitement as the children (and me if I am honest!) keep their fingers crossed for snow.

I have to admit that with all the chaos this week I have started to panic. The holidays are imminent and I have not finished all my Christmas jobs. I have no idea if I will get time now. However, Christmas would not be Christmas without the last minute dash to the shops and the excitement over the weather forecast. It all adds to the atmosphere!

So, I for one am looking forward to the kids breaking up from school, the cold weather and dark evenings that are a good excuse to light the fire and some time to spend with family and friends.

Of course the shop will be open over the holiday period, we will be taking it in turns so that everyone gets time off! Our opening hours are as follows:

Christmas Eve - Open 0930-1230

Christmas Day - Closed

Boxing Day - Closed

December 27th - Closed

December 28th - Open 0930-1700

December 29th - Open 0930-1700

December 30th - Open 0930-1700

December 31st - Open 0930-1600 (early closing)

January 1st - Closed

January 2nd - Closed

January 3rd - Open and back to 'normal'!

Let It Snow

It is at the forefront of our minds given the weather over the last two Winters and yet at the moment the sun is shining, it is really quite mild. Our kids are praying for snow, and if there is one thing our snow fun has taught us it is that to have fun you need to keep warm.

Last Winter it would take us 20 mins to get everyone ready to go out to play! We are (unfortunately) not skiers and do not have specialist snow wear. We go for the layers approach! Base layers, a couple of t-shirts, fleeces, and waterproofs on top. Our fleece lined waterproof all in one suits have been invaluable. The little ones then get put in their buggies with Buggysnuggle and a warm water bottle to cling to! Older ones wear wellies with liners. Hats and gloves are donned and off we go.

There is nothing like a bit of snow to help us get in to the Christmas spirit....Let it Snow, Let it Snow, Let it Snow!

Away for Christmas?

Its the one thing that people always ask when chatting at this time of year...are you away for Christmas? Travelling with kids can be a challenge, even if it is just a car journey to stay with grandparents. Do you have an item that you would never travel without??

I like to travel light, but as far as the children are concerned there are a few things that can make it easier.

•My Carry Potty - an ingenious design that means you have a loo with you for all those emergencies and due to its clever seal, you don't even need anywhere to empty it straight away, simply deal with it at your destination!

• wet wipes - I am a washable girl all the way BUT I have to say for longer trips when there may be restricted access to a washing machine I do use disposable wipes. Invaluable.

• Grobag - sleep is so important for everyone to be relaxed and enjoy Christmas. We found as long as they had their familiar Grobag, ours would settle anywhere. It provides a warm, familiar and soothing environment, just right for sleep.

• baby carrier - I am not a carrier purist, I think buggies have their place but when travelling and with a car stuffed full of pressies, a decent carrier is invaluable. It can also help your baby feel secure and in a familiar environment, even if they are clearly not!

If you have any essentials that you will not leave home without this Christmas we would like to hear about them!