Preparing for Peach

Preparing for a babies arrival is always an exciting time, it can also be fraught with indecision or doubt as you start to approach the wonderful parenting journey!

Having done it once before I had hoped that this time I will doubt less and know more. Three months in and I am not so sure. I have my essentials list, we have lots already on the essentials list, we have until October so there is no real rush, but, I am a planner and I like a list. And already I am thinking I have lots to do.

Potty Training L

Potty training wasn't something I had given much thought to until L was about to turn 2. She had recently had to come out of cloth nappies as they were no longer coping with her wees which came in much bigger less frequent bursts.  

We were in the throws of summer and so a lot of nappy free garden time seem the best option to start potty training. 

We together brought an IKEA potty and stall. Brought a selection of potty training books, a sticker book and some lovely Frozen knickers! 

Baby no.2!

Wicked Uncle Birthday Treats

Last month L turned 2.

She had a Gruffalo cake, a family birthday tea, a trip to In the Night Garden Live and a fair few presents.

We were asked if we would like to review a new gift website called Wicked Uncle and its timing with the aforementioned birthday made it a perfect opportunity. 

Wicked Uncle is a gift buying website, aimed at uncles, aunts or hapless friends buying presents for children when they might not have much experience or knowledge of appropriate childrens gifts.

The lucky ones

This blog started with a post about mine, and the then new Mummy Cambridge's, body image and how the media has unrealistic expectations of us new mums.

On Saturday the 2nd of May the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge emerged from hospital with their second newborn. Less than 12hours old. Wrapped in a shawl and sleeping peacefully.

They all looked splendid and oh so happy. It made me smile ear to ear when Kate turned to Wills and grabbed his hand. In the same way we all need to hold onto our loved ones the most in these moments and at that vulnerable time. 

But what followed on social media was lots in incredulous "I never looked like that." "If only I had make up artists and stylists to look like that." "She is so lucky."

Labour, Love and Fear

My news feeds have been full of beautiful newborns and blossoming bumps. Pictures full of love. But, the space where broodiness was once swelled by these wonderful sights, is now filled with fear and trepidation.

Not fear of the newborn, not fear of the sleepless night, not fear of the growing family and its demands. But fear of the labour.

No birth is a walk in the park, but our labour with L was far from how we imagined it. It remains a confusing and painful memory, and missing memories still trouble me. 

Weaning Wednesday: Stand up for Good Snacks with Ella's Kitchen

The lovely ladies over at Ella's kitchen invited L and I to join them in standing up for good snacks! As long term fans of the brand of lovely nutritious food for babies and toddlers we couldn't wait to join in and to sample some of the new snack range.

For the past three weeks we have been eating a great selection of snacks for toddlers. All suitable from 12months these snacks are fab for home and away. Easy and clear labels ensure a happy mum as there are no nasties hidden in them. Also good for checking for any known allegins you need to avoid.