MummysShoes

Silver Cross Pink Dolls Pram

2013-05-10T05:37:00.000-07:00

When I had Belle, and recently Boo, I longed for a Silver Cross Balmoral Pram! However good sense prevailed and I just knew it would not be practical as we go nearly everywhere by car (we are surrounded by farms with not a path in sight).

I'm really not sure who adores Belle's pink Silver Cross pram more!?

Have a lovely weekend everyone!

A Pink Cowgirl 4th Birthday Party

2013-04-22T13:21:00.001-07:00

Our gorgeous girly has turned 4!

It only seems two seconds ago she was curled up in our arms, a little newborn bundle.

She is a little lady who knows what she wants and she wanted a pink cowgirl pony party...so she got one!

She was very poorly on the day with a high temperature but she soldiered on (or saddled up should I say) and so the show went on...she amazed us! She always amazes us!

Love you baby girl!

Outside our house..the weather was rather cold and so the carport proved a very valuable space for grooming the ponies after all the girls had a ride

The popcorn bags were later filled up!

Cowgirl cookies for the cowgirls to take home, which we found on Bakerella, Cowgirl Loot, drinks in the watering hole and cowgirl trail mix (a mixture of raisins, smarties, pretzels and cheerios)

Pink Gingham tables fit for 15 little cowgirls and Belle's Jessie Cowgirl cake. Smores to eat and sheriff stars for all the girls

The Stokke Xplory got in on the cowgirl theme too and Spike loved all the attention he received from the guests! After all the girls got a pony ride they were able to groom and decorate them, which they loved! We can really recommend The Cuddly Pony Party! I found this amazing cowgirl bunting from Angels with Dirty Faces.

Cowgirl Wanted signs and pin the tail on the donkey for the girls to play.

Cowboy Bibs for the two mini cowboys that attended

Flowers for the tables, teepee and party bags

Thank you to everyone who came and helped out too!

It was lovely seeing Belle with all her friends and even though she was poorly they all managed to cheer her up!

We wonder what next years request will be?

Baby's First Converse

2013-04-09T07:40:00.002-07:00

How adorable are these tiny converse for Spike?

He seems to approve...

We couldn't leave out Belle of course...

Aren't tiny baby shoes just the cutest things?

A willow crib and the baby mattress dilemma solved!

2013-04-08T13:39:00.000-07:00

I have always had a thing for traditional, good quality pieces of furniture. When we moved to this house we knew we were expecting baby boo and so I kept an eye out for nursery furniture which was befitting with a modern cottage.

When I was contacted by Naturalmat about their cocomat and beautiful willow crib a couple months before boo was born it couldn't have been better timing. Not only is the willow crib handmade from renewable willow crops, it is also larger and sturdier than any I have come across and it really does look timeless and elegant. Well you can see for yourself and be the judge...

The pictures really don't do the size of this crib justice, it is really quite vast to look at in real life and measures L84cm x W48cm x H53cm...much bigger than your average moses basket! The stand is also equally lovely quality, in folding pine with leather straps, and is super sturdy.

You can buy the willow crib, stand, bumper and coco mattress separately on the naturalmat website or as a bundle here. As a bundle it comes in at £300, which isn't cheap but then you aren't buying a standard highstreet moses basket here with a pvc mattress. Naturalmat also do custom sheet sizes to go with the mattress and waterproof protectors too, which are quite an essential with a newborn I would say.

This crib is recommended for up to 6 months and I think this is because babies can start to pull themselves up from this age and the sides are low compared to a cot. However length wise this crib could last them a lot longer and boo is still not filling it (yet he outgrew his moses basket two months ago!)

Now that I have shown you this stunning crib, I will get onto what naturalmat are really known for, which is of course their organic handmade mattresses.

The Mattress

If you are anything like me I spent ages researching the best mattress for baby. I did it with Belle 4 years ago and went through it all again with baby boo, scrawling the internet for the safest, most breathable, organic mattress on the market! It is a minefield out there!

Naturalmat do a few different types of mattress for babies (and adults alike but I will concentrate on the baby mattresses). There is the cocomat, latex mat, mohair mat and cashmere mat. I went for the cocomat as it offers gentle support and is extremely breathable with excellent ventilation. Which gives me that little extra piece of mind.

Sizing - Moses baskets and cribs from the highstreet, even some of the most expensive one's, always come with those horrible pvc mattresses which you just would not want baby to sleep on! So then you are left with finding a new mattress to fit and sometimes it just can't be done. Naturalmat have that covered too. They offer a made to measure service and so are able to custom make any moses, crib or cot mattress size you want. Whether it be rectangular, rounded, hexagonal or any odd shape, they can do it!

Comfort - The coco mattress feels very firm to touch and I did worry about this but Baby boo certainly has no complaints! He has always been a fantastic sleeper and now at 6 months he still sleeps in this crib by the side of our bed at night.

Organic - The thing that makes these mattresses the real deal for me is the fact they are completely organic! By organic I do not mean 80% organic or just the cotton covers, like so many claim, but everything! The problem with mattresses is that since it is law they are flame resistant many chemicals are put into them to ensure this. The cocomat uses locally sourced lambswool tufting instead of any chemicals as it can resist flames due to its high moisture and nitrogen content therefore making a naturally fire resistant mattress!

The core - The core of this mattress is made from organic coir (coir comes from coconuts, it's basically coconut fibre). There are many benefits of this:

Great Sprin and support properties
Amazingly resilient and durable
Naturally anti-dust mite which means it is perfect for all allergy sufferers
Breathable/superb ventilation
Organic and sustainable - a truly eco product!

Notes - Due to baby boo being a tummy sleeper I have always been paranoid about leaving him for nap times, so we decided to buy the angel baby monitor. This monitor works very well under this mattress and picks up movement perfectly!

Disclosure: For the purpose of this review we were given the willow crib and mattress bundle to keep. However all views and opinions expressed are my own

Happy Half Birthday: Baby Boo turns 6 months old

2013-03-22T14:55:00.000-07:00

Spike, how are you 6 months old already?

You are the most bubbly, smiley, sociable baby. You smile for everyone you meet.

You are an easy baby, very basic in your needs and you still rarely cry. We took you to Dubai for your first holiday a couple of weeks ago. 8 hours on a plane and not a peep, just smiles for all your fellow passengers!

You have brought so much joy to our lives and completed our little family.

I still get moments where I can not believe we have a little boy in the house, that daddy and I have a son, that Belle has a brother. We are so proud of you.

We went out for lunch with Grams and Papa to celebrate your half birthday and you got a little spoilt. Just as your sister did on her half birthday.

Belle and Boo at 6 months old

Should I have a baby and what the baby classes don't tell you!

2013-03-11T06:30:00.001-07:00

For all the mother's (including expectant ones), this one is for you! My friend shared this with me and I'm afraid I can not find who the original author is, so if you know please do tell. But it is beautiful and true.

We are sitting at lunch one day when my daughter casually mentions that she and her husband are thinking of "starting a family."

"We're taking a survey," she says half-joking. "Do you think I should have a baby?"

"It will change your life," I say, carefully keeping my tone neutral.

"I know," she says, "no more sleeping in on weekends, no more spontaneous vacations."

But that is not what I meant at all. I look at my daughter, trying to decide what to tell her. I want her to know what she will never learn in childbirth classes.

I want to tell her that the physical wounds of child bearing will heal, but becoming a mother will leave her with an emotional wound so raw that she will forever be vulnerable.

I consider warning her that she will never again read a newspaper without asking, "What if that had been MY child?" That every plane crash, every house fire will haunt her.

That when she sees pictures of starving children, she will wonder if anything could be worse than watching your child die.

I look at her carefully manicured nails and stylish suit and think that no matter how sophisticated she is, becoming a mother will reduce her to the primitive level of a bear protecting her cub. That an urgent call of "Mum!" will cause her to drop a soufflé or her best crystal without a moments hesitation.

I feel that I should warn her that no matter how many years she has invested in her career, she will be professionally derailed by motherhood. She might arrange for childcare, but one day she will be going into an important business meeting and she will think of her baby's sweet smell. She will have to use every ounce of discipline to keep from running home, just to make sure her baby is all right.

However decisive she may be at the office, she will second-guess herself constantly as a mother.

Looking at my attractive daughter, I want to assure her that eventually she will shed the pounds of pregnancy, but she will never feel the same about herself.

That her life, now so important, will be of less value to her once she has a child. That she would give herself up in a moment to save her offspring, but will also begin to hope for more years, not to accomplish her own dreams, but to watch her child accomplish theirs.

I want her to know that a cesarean scar or shiny stretch marks will become badges of honor.

My daughter's relationship with her husband will change, but not in the way she thinks.

I wish she could understand how much more you can love a man who is careful to powder the baby or who never hesitates to play with his child.

I think she should know that she will fall in love with him again for reasons she would now find very unromantic.

I wish my daughter could sense the bond she will feel with women throughout history who have tried to stop war, prejudice and drunk driving.

I want to describe to my daughter the exhilaration of seeing your child learn to ride a bike.

I want to capture for her the belly laugh of a baby who is touching the soft fur of a dog or cat for the first time.

I want her to taste the joy that is so real it actually hurts.

My daughter's quizzical look makes me realize that tears have formed in my eyes. "You'll never regret it," I finally say. Then I reached across the table, squeezed my daughter's hand and offered a silent prayer for her, and for me, and for all the mere mortal women who stumble their way into this most wonderful of callings. May you always have in your arms the one who is in your heart.

Valentine's Day Love

2013-02-14T05:41:00.001-08:00

Happy Valentine's Day one and all!

I like using this day to remind my family how much they mean to me. I know we shouldn't need it to remember how important loved one's are but we sometimes need a little reminder in our busy lives and at the risk of sounding blonde, you know, it's 'nice'.

Mum's cupcakes are AMAZING!

So lucky to have my hubby... Love you Mr Y

Gorgeous Cath Kidston cards for Belle and Boo from Grams!

Belle's Valentine Hello Kitty from Build a Bear

Beautiful girly gifts from my mum

I am so grateful for my gorgeous little family and it still feels a little surreal when I think of Mr Y and myself having a little lady AND a little man now. I adore my family of four and am so proud of them in every way.

To my soul mate, my husband, for still 6 years on, making me feel special.

To my children for coming into this world and blowing me away. Who knew love could be so deep and so strong.

And to my mum and dad for giving me the strength, morals, values and security I hold today. For mum making every occasion, small or big, special and for having a heart of pure gold.

So on this day, which should be everyday, thank you! Thank you to my family and friends for making my life so full.

A new find for babywear

2013-01-22T03:11:00.001-08:00

I recently came across K&Co whilst looking for a miniature shirt for baby boo. They have a great range of clothes, with brands from Ladybird and Mamas and Papas to Ralph Lauren and Tommy Hilfiger.

Below are a handful of things which I have picked out but you can find many, many more, on the K&Co website. I particularly like the little prince and princess hooded bath towels!

Baby Boy Gifts

Baby Girl Gifts

They really have a fantastic selection of baby clothes, from sleepsuits and vests to special occasion outfits, to suit all budgets and I know I will be going back again. So if you have a baby or toddler of your own, or you are looking to buy a gift for a friend with a baby, then pop along and have a look.

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post but all views expressed are my own

Snow Cottage

2013-01-18T06:01:00.003-08:00

England finally has snow!

That doesn't bode too well for the school run but waking up in the morning to this is quite magical.

Welcome to our cottage in the snow!

Somewhere down a lane...

Sits a very snowy cottage...

Come on in and take a look...

Belle's poor lost picnic table not long ago had children sitting on it eating icecreams...

Walk along and you will see...

An orchard that once bore fruit...

Paddling pools, children running around and pheasants wandering. Now it's oh so quiet...

UNTIL...

There were snowmen and igloo's to build...

First experiences and memories to be made

Childish games to be played...

Our wood stash may be starting to go down...

The changing seasons making their mark

...But that is a sign that we are staying warm and cosy and THAT alone is something to be very grateful for

I hope you are all keeping warm and enjoy the snow while it lasts.

Drive safely!

Baby (Bear) it's Cold Outside

2013-01-16T01:52:00.001-08:00

This was baby boo's first snow!

His baby bear snow suit drowns him but at least he is snug!

WaterWipes; The World's Purest Baby Wipe

2013-01-08T14:23:00.000-08:00

It's not often I rave about products like this but I simply had to feature them as they really are fantastic. All us mum's know that we should just be using water and cotton wool on our delicate baby's bottom but wouldn't it be fantastic if there was a wipe that was just the same? How convenient would it be when you are out with your newborn not to have to bring cooled boiled water with you and a bunch of cotton wool?

Well now there is a wipe that is just that.

WaterWipes are 99.9% Water and 0.1% Fruit Extract (Grapefruit seed extract a natural skin conditioner and protector)

I was sent a bunch of these to try out on Baby Boo and WOW how I wish I had these 3 years ago with Belle. Not once has Boo had nappy rash and he is now 3 months old and we are still using them. The convenience of baby wipes with the purity of cotton wool and water!

I have already had so many mum's asking me where you can buy them when they have spotted me with them at weigh in clinic etc.

You can also buy very slim packs with just 10 wipes in which I love. They are perfect for keeping in the changing bag when out and about!

If you fancy giving them a go WaterWipes are giving all my readers £5 off a 9 pack here using this code X4EHGSVD - at the end of your purchase.

Disclosure: We were sent a few boxes of WaterWipes to review. However I really love these and I now regularly buy them from our local Kiddicare. I very rarely review things for such little value unless I think my readers should know about them and I think any new mummy should know about these!

Birth Story of Baby Boo

2012-12-19T09:32:00.002-08:00

Friday's child is loving and giving

On Friday the 21st of September our darling boy was born weighing 7lb 12oz. Words can not explain what an amazing (and short) labour and birth we had, with no pain relief and no aftercare needed. In fact they wanted to send me home just an hour later! So many factors contributed to this and I will go on to explain them but having two amazing birth partners was SO important. My mum, who reminded me of what I wanted and the labour I had planned, gave me moral support and got rid of cramp in my leg (she was also armed with pic n' mix to keep me going). And my husband who also reminded me of what I wanted, was there to massage my back, reminded me to 'breathe' and also helped get rid of cramp in my leg :) They were just amazing! This pair should seriously be Doulas!

Braxton Hicks or the real deal contractions?
I had been getting crazy braxton hicks since 5 months pregnant. I would get tons a day. It was annoying but I saw it as a good thing as it was my body preparing. I had been taking Raspberry leaf tea since 28 weeks as it is thought it helps prepare the uterus for labour, so perhaps this had something to do with it.

In the early hours of the morning, around 2am I was getting what felt like braxton hicks every 20 minutes. By 5am they had started to go around to my back. I just knew by 6am that this was THE day. Things happened exactly the same way as they did with Belle and at exactly the same time of morning too.

I got up, showered, put my clothes on which I had set aside for this moment (an easy access long black skirt and black strappy top with cardi). I left Hubby and Belle to sleep as I thought they (well hubby anyway) would need it. By 7:30am my contractions had stepped up a gear so I called my mum and dad and they headed over to join us all. I was still very excited at this point as I was coping with the contractions and although painful I could still eat breakfast, chat and laugh.

By 9am we had a house full of my favourite people. Me, Hubby, Belle, my mum and dad were all in our kitchen having a cuppa and I started to time my contractions. They were every 3/4 minutes and about 40 seconds long so thought I best call the maternity ward. They said I sounded very in control (although I did have to stop talking on the phone mid contraction, but the midwife understood!) so I could either come in or try and stay at home a bit longer. I knew I wanted to stay at home as long as possible so I hung on. By 10am they were getting very painful and coming every 2/3 minutes, I was using a basic birth breath by this time, which I had been taught at Daisy Birthing by my teacher, the lovely Steph. I decided we should head in as we live 25 minutes away from the hospital.

So my husband and I set off in our car with my hospital bag and the baby bag and my mum followed in hers avec BIG birthing ball in the back. My dad was minder for the day for Belle, which she was very excited about.

The hospital
We arrived at the hospital around 11am and we went through to the ward and waited for the midwife to examine me. I was 4cm dilated and she said I was ready to go to the delivery room. I really wanted a water birth but because my iron was low at my last 39 week check they wouldn't allow it. I believe in fate and this was probably the best thing that could have happened as I had, quite possibly, the best midwife in the world it turned out. Not that I would advise having low iron, it is very dangerous as you do bleed in labour obviously, so it is important to keep your iron levels up.

The Transition Phase
About an hour after being in the delivery suite I hit that transition phase (the last part of active labour). It is the most intense phase of labour, contractions are very strong as your cervix tries to dilate to 10cm and the baby descends more into your pelvis ready for the second stage of labour (the birth). Some women yell at their partners in transition, blame them, swear (even women who never use foul language have been known to be very foul mouthed) and some say they don't want to carry on and want to go home! Of course some women also keep calm and collected.

So what did I do...I wanted pain relief! It was the one thing I had told my birth partners I didn't want. I had spent months doing yoga birth and knew I didn't want anything but gas and air. I had it in my birth plan. Don't get me wrong I have nothing against women who have pain relief and I have many many friends who have had great births with it but it was something I really had been adamant about. Hubby and mum reminded me of my plan and I reacted by saying 'you are both ganging up on me'. Then ten minutes later I was back on track again :) I can't thank them enough for this. It is SO important to have birth partners that know you and know what you really want!

The Waters?
So transition phase in full swing we were just waiting for my waters to go. The midwife kept saying that as soon as they go she thinks there will be a baby following close behind. My waters went in a very dramatic style with Belle and I was worried this lovely midwife was going to get drenched too (sorry for the tmi but it happens!). My waters finally went, luckily in a less dramatic style, and suddenly the pain of the contractions went up a bit more and I was reminded to use my breathing techniques as well as gas and air. Gas and Air was AMAZING for me and really helped me control my breathing. Although it made me sick at first it really did help.

Birthing Positions
I had planned on having a water birth and active labour and I was lying on my back at this point so it went against everything I had planned. But I felt very comfy this way and it felt 'right'. I was worried as I knew gravity would help baby out so all fours or squatting would be best as those positions allow the pelvis to open up more. I told my midwife I had not planned on having the baby lying down but that I was actually comfy (or as comfy as you can be when in labour!). She told me to trust my body and that if I was happy there then I should stay. So I did.

Trusting your body was something the midwife kept telling me, as did my yoga teacher and it is true ladies. Our bodies are amazing and unless there are medical complications we should trust them to do what they are designed to do. Listen to your body and trust it.

GO, GO, GO
So my waters broke and I was suddenly getting that 'bearing down' feeling so I knew it was time to push. I didn't even try to push, my body was just doing it for me. I asked the midwife if it was OK to actively try pushing and she said 'if you feel like it, trust your body and do it'. So again, I did! She had so much confidence in me and it gave me that confidence to go with the flow!

7 minutes later (yep just 7 minutes of pushing!) and
I was (reasonably) calmly panting (with small pushes
on the midwifes instructions) out our little Baby Boo.
But before anything else a little hand came out and
grabbed the midwifes hand, she was shocked and I
do believe this was a first for her to experience too!

I will never forget the moment boo came out as my
husband made a comment 'aww look at her'...the
midwife told him he might want to check that...for
baby boo was in fact a boy! His face was a picture,
we were all beaming! For all those months I wanted
to find out the sex but I refrained and boy was it
worth the wait!

Our Dear Baby Boo

Sami darling, you came into this world and gave me an easy time with it. I couldn't believe I had a little boy in my arms and I couldn't wait for your precious sister to meet you that day. You had beautiful dark hair and you held your head up when daddy held you just minutes after coming into this world. Our strong little man! You have slotted into our little family just perfectly and none of us could imagine life without you. You are such a giggly content little baby, we couldn't ask for more.

Mr Y and Grams, thank you so much for making that day in September such an amazing one. It is hard to put into words how perfect it was, for everything exceeded my expectations, there is a huge warmth deeply seeded in my heart now with memories of that day. Papa, thank you for looking after Belle and making things so enjoyable for her, the day she went from being an only child to a big sister. It made things so easy and allowed me not to have 'guilt' over bringing her brother into this world. Belle, you are simply the most beautiful, warm hearted, funny, bubbly, clever, cheeky and energetic little girl I could have wished for. You have welcomed your baby brother into this world with open arms (and trillions of kisses!). I am beyond proud of you my darling girl. I feel truly blessed for my little family.

A ray of hope flickers in the sky
A tiny star lights up way up high
All across the land, dawns a brand new morn
This comes to pass when a child is born

(John Mathis. When a Child is born)

Oh Christmas Tree...

2012-12-10T06:08:00.003-08:00

This year we decided to go for a real tree and made a day of it. Myself, Mr Y, Belle and Boo all got wrapped up and headed to Plantation Lodge Farm in Castle Bytham to meet Grams and Papa (who were also picking their tree)

Seeing as it was our first real tree I was being a bit of a perfectionist but finally found 'the one' :) A nearly 7ft Fraser Fir.

Before:

After:

I decided to go for a pale champagne gold with silver accents. It is hard to see all the detail in these pictures but there are strands of pearls and beads under there too. The ribbon was my favourite and that was Gisela Graham, a pain to tie in bows (I ended up sewing them) and the glitter gets everywhere, but it was fun!

Belle loved helping this year, even more than last year. We also let her have her own small tree in her room, which she decorated herself completely. It is lovely and bright with an eclectic mix of decorations!

While I am on the subject of Belle, we were SO proud of her in her pre-school nativity play last week. She was a shepherdess (her words not mine, little feminist in the making) and we could actually hear her singing amongst all the other children. Boo also came along to watch his big sister but slept the whole way through, I was tempted to put him in the crib on the stage so he could play Baby Jesus :)

What a difference a year makes! Here's our little angel last year...

Crafty Christmas Crochet and Doily Gift Wrap

2012-11-29T03:19:00.000-08:00

It seems two minutes since Belle and I were doing Christmas Crafts last year! I have been meaning to try out crochet for ages and now seemed the perfect time as I wanted to make some little Christmas Decorations and also add them as gift tags to presents. So I searched YouTube for a snowflake crochet tutorial, found one and gave it a go. This was my first ever attempt at crochet and I have fallen in love with it!

This was my first ever attempt at crochet so be nice...

Simple Christmas Doily Gift Wrap:

Last year I used brown paper and string with a candy stripe theme for my Christmas Gift Wrap. I still have tons of brown paper left so thought I would try something a bit different with it using paper doilies. What you need:

Brown Paper
Jute/Twine/String or Wool
Paper or crochet doilies (paper are obviously much cheaper)
Scissors and tape
Plus any other ribbon or embellishments you want to add

There are tons of different ways you can use the doily but I just love the lace affect it has. You can add embellishments such as buttons or ribbon or cameo's. You can also add accents of whatever colour scheme you want. Here are some more idea's for you which I quickly put together:

I am sure I will be doing many more crafts before Christmas, with Belle too, so I will post them as and when if you want to see more.

Hope you are all wrapping up warm this weekend, it is going to be a cold one in England apparently

xxx

Children in Need and Baby Pudsey Bear

2012-11-19T05:42:00.001-08:00

Children in Need is always very nostalgic for me. It reminds me of being allowed to stay up late as a child (I'd always fall asleep) and fantastic memories of fundraising activities at school. This year Belle was very excited by it and for the first time understood what it was about.

Can you spot Baby Boo?

Sibling Love and Jealousy

2012-11-07T08:17:00.001-08:00

The biggest surprise to me on this journey of being a mummy to more than one has been seeing the love between Belle and Boo.

Belle has amazed me in ways I didn't think possible. All my anxieties I had before Boo arrived have been smashed.

My heart melts when I see them together, the way Boo looks for her when he hears her voice and how Belle, at just 3 years old, can make him smile. She has not shown one ounce of jealousy towards him, she runs to him when he cries and talks so softly to him.

I really think the age gap has helped. Not only because Belle can take herself to the toilet and wash her hands etc (so it is very easy on mummy) but because she completely understands everything and is so proud to be a big sister. Because of this she hasn't batted an eyelid to the fact Boo is getting a lot of attention. Family have been fantastic too, bringing gifts for her as well as her brother, which I was so pleased about. Grams and Papa (her favourite people in the world!!) were also wary of fussing Boo too much in front of her without involving her. We also included her in the pregnancy from very early on so she wanted him to be here for quite a while. We had books about being a big sister and talked a LOT about it.

I felt very emotional for the first few weeks, mainly at night when Belle was tucked into bed (mixture of hormones too I am sure!!) worrying all the time that I was 'cooing' over boo too much and Belle would feel left out and upset. I was very careful not to fuss him too much when she was there, without including her. I would be talking to him and kissing him and then say 'I think he wants a hug from his big sister' and she would jump to do it and always beam a great big smile at this!

It's all about involving the first born in the little things you do. Which I know isn't always easy as you are sleep deprived and worn out at this stage, but now, with boo at 6 weeks old, Belle will just be playing away when people fuss him and it is normal life for her now. She is her normal content, bubbly little self.

All these little things help, I believe. Or maybe she would have been like she is anyway, who really knows. But I do know that I blooming love these two!

Truly blessed.

Frivolous Friday: Buys of the week

2012-10-26T06:14:00.002-07:00

I have done Frivolous Friday a few times now so have decided to try and make it a weekly thing.

Please join in if you want! Just post a pic of your favourite buy(s) of the week and add your link

It could be something as simple as finding a new drink, fashion, beauty, baby products or a more extravagant item such as furniture.

Please do join in and do a post on your blog if you have bought or received anything great this week. I'd love to see. Then link up at the bottom if you want. Otherwise just feel free to have a nose.

Nars Blusher and Yves Saint Laurent Shocking Mascara

Gap Baby have some gorgeous things and I couldn't resist the cable knit babygrow for Boo. I will do a separate Autumn wardrobe post for kids next week, for those interested, as we have bought and received SO many lovely clothes for Boo and Belle this week.

And of course I couldn't leave out our little Belle. So from Gap Kids I also went with the cable knit theme...with a cowl neck jumper dress, cable knit jumper sweater dress and this gorgeous fur hooded cable knit chunky cardigan.

Wearing the Gap selection

My husband brought this home on Wednesday and I was over the moon (small things hay!). I adore PG and because I am breastfeeding I have had to limit my caffeine intake...DECAF PG Tips! I am now a very happy lady indeed!

These were my bargain teacups that I just couldn't resist from Matalan at £2.99 each!! You all know how much I LOVE teacups!

Belle insisted on 'yellow' wellies for preschool so we went with these cute yellow hunter kids welly boots.

Sophie the Giraffe. We had one when Belle was a baby and it went everywhere with her! We are hoping Boo will like his too.

A few Halloween accessories for Belle and Boo. They also have outfits but I haven't got around to taking a pic.

Finally I bought one more tutu, in Vanilla, to add to Belle's growing collection as she had a friends birthday party to attend

Your world in 4 weeks

2012-10-18T06:22:00.000-07:00

Baby boo you are 4 weeks old tomorrow and it feels like you have always been a part of our family. We love you so much, words just can not explain.

You have had a busy 4 weeks, here is a snapshot:

You have spent a fair bit of time in a milk coma as we like to call it! This is a common scene every morning. We are co sleeping at the moment and we all love it, but we will be transferring you to your crib very soon.

I took you to get you weighed a few days ago and you were 9lb 10oz. I was so proud and the HV was very impressed! You didn't cry once, even when you were placed in the nudey on those cold scales.

You are 'official' now as we took you to get registered. The registrar was lovely and adored the name we chose for you. We hope you love it too, it really suits you.

You attended your big sisters Forest School for Harvest Festival. She was so proud, showing you off to her teachers and friends. We dressed you in your bear pram suit which everyone seemed to adore! Despite all the singing and clapping and windy weather you slept the whole morning. We then went to meet Grams and Papa for lunch, where they enjoyed lots of cuddles!

You attended your first party. One of Belle's friends was having an enchanted fairy and princess party. We gave her the choice of having you there or you staying with Grams and Papa but she wanted you there :) Her friends all enjoyed taking it in turns rocking your carseat. Again, you slept, pretty much the whole time.

Your first bath time was a bit of a love hate relationship. You liked it at first. Then cried a bit. Then enjoyed water being poured over your head and then decided you didn't like it again.

You and your big sister on mummy and daddy's bed. This was taken on a lazy weekend. It was so nice daddy taking a few weeks off work so we could all just relax and enjoy being a family of 4. I find it so hard to put into words how amazing Belle has been and how much she loves you. She will put nappies out for you and will jump to your side at the slightest moan or cry. She always wants to stroke your head and give you kisses. It is so sweet. When the little whirlwind comes home from preschool, upon hearing her voice your head darts around looking for her. I am sure she will get the privilege of your first smile!

Trying to suss out Ewan the Sheep.

Baby Boo you are such a content little boy, at just 4 weeks old. You are so alert and have been since day one, you open your eyes so wide, taking in all the surroundings. You remind me of your sister so much, yet you are also so different in so many ways.

Now in the risk of glorifying motherhood too much (all you mum's out there know those first few months aren't easy but we also wouldn't change them) I must also say you are a little wind bag...

Burping baby boo...a must!

Welcome Baby Boo! Was baby pink or blue?

2012-10-08T03:19:00.000-07:00

On Friday the 21st of September we gave birth to a beautiful...

We are all over the moon, especially Belle, who can't stop telling everyone she is now a big sister.

It feels like he's always been here, he's fitted in so perfectly and we feel truly blessed.

Our darling Sami all fresh and new...

We had the most amazing birth and I shall share my birth story with you all very soon.

For now we are just enjoying being a family of four.

A very very new Sami :)

Such a proud big sister.

Her first sentences were 'Is he real?' and 'Can we keep him?'

My two babies!

First trip out

First time out of a sleepsuit/babygrow

How I have been spending my days :)

Thank you so much for all the well wishes on Twitter. We were quite blown away by them all when we announced Sami's birth. You are all fab!

While we were waiting...

2012-09-14T11:37:00.000-07:00

We 'officially' have 9 days until your due date little one, but anytime now would be great. You see, you are quite big already apparently, just like your sister was, half-reared your great nanny would have called you. Our hospital bags are packed, yours and mine. Everyone is ready to give you lots of cuddles!

Your home is ready and waiting to welcome you...

Fresh little white socks and sleepsuits await you

Your adorable Lollipop Lane Moses Basket from Grams and Papa stands in the lounge ready for daytime sleeps...

...and your handmade willow crib will be by our bed upstairs (although it does look nice in the kitchen) ready for night time sleeps.

Your big sister has requested it be by her bed though :) She is very excited to meet you!

Your nursery is all kitted out. Your beautiful Oak Sleigh Cot from Uncle Chris is ready to welcome your tired little head in a few months, or whenever you have outgrown your crib.

Your Maxi-Cosi Car Seat is ready to bring you home from the hospital

Daddy has just put together your lovely bright Fisher-Price Bouncer ready for you to have a bounce in.

Your new Stokke Xplory pushchair is ready to take you on lots of trips

and of course we couldn't miss out Sophie the Giraffe. Ready to be chewed!

But most importantly we just want you here safe and sound and healthy. So come when you are ready little one, you know when the time is right, we are ready for you and love you so much already!

Silent Sunday: Someone starts ballet tomorrow

2012-09-09T12:20:00.001-07:00

I now appreciate the years my mum spent sewing elastic into my ballet shoes!

Proud as punch!

We won : The Achica Blog Awards 2012 for Nursery and Childrenswear!

2012-09-07T08:38:00.000-07:00

Wow guys, I don't know what to say other than THANK YOU.

www.mummysshoes.com won under the Childrenswear and Nursery Category of the Achica Blog Awards! You can see some of the other winners here too

I was totally blown away with the number of votes my little old blog received! Not to mention the tweets and emails from readers, friends and family and even more amazingly some fantastic PR companies I have worked with in the past, who really got behind my blog!

It was a lovely surprise to be in the final, let alone win, so thank you! It couldn't have come at a better time as we are 'patiently' waiting for baby number 2 to arrive any day now. So it served as a lovely little pick me up!

My Pregnancy Menu: What I ate Wednesday

2012-09-05T01:57:00.000-07:00

My diet in the 3rd Trimester has pretty much stayed the same and I have wanted the same breakfasts and lunches daily! I won't be doing this every Wednesday, as I know a lot of mummy bump bloggers do, but here is an example of what I would eat on an average day.

Breakfast:

Nearly every morning I have been having porridge (oats made with water and a dash of almond milk). Topped with fruit.

Here I had it with apple (I have had a real thing for green apples in this pregnancy!)

Here again is another favourite.

Again porridge (made with oats, water and almond milk) and topped with bluberries, banana and cinnamon.

On the days I don't have this I will have boiled or scrambled egg.

Plus I will have a large glass of water and a cup of tea most mornings (I have not completely taken caffeine out of my diet!)

Snack (around 10am)

I have been loving Onken Cherry Biopot Yogurt and as you can see so has Belle

If we don't have this we will have some fruit in some natural yogurt or if we are out and about we may have something a bit more naughty, such as cake, or ice lollies (when the weather is nice).

Lunch

I have been having this for weeks and I just don't get bored of it!

Wholemeal Bread or pitta with Olive Oil and Zatar

Plus some green and black olives with feta (again olives has been another major craving of mine in this pregnancy)

Afternoon Snack

From 34 weeks I have been having a cup or two of Raspberry Leaf Tea everyday. I sometimes add a tiny bit of honey.

Dinner

Obviously this changes daily as I'm pretty sure Belle and Hubby would get bored of the same thing!

Here we had Salmon (with olive oil, lemon and parsley wrapped in foil and baked in the oven).

With new potatoes, baby spinach, tomatoes and olives (drizzled with lemon juice)

Evening Snack (sometimes but not always)

In the evenings I will sometimes have a glass of warm almond milk or a cup of coffee with a biscuit. Some days I won't have any snacks in the evening as my tummy just feels too full now after dinner as baby is taking up so much room!

I will always take a bottle of water up to bed with me, which will be completely gone by the morning.

Oh and of course my Iron tablets I take daily, which I have been very forgetful with up until now!

First Day at Pre-School

2012-09-04T05:53:00.004-07:00

Today Belle started Pre-School!

I can't believe she has gone from Nursery a year ago:

To this:

We are so proud of her and the friends she has made. She is such a bubbly and caring girl and we have never had tears from her when going to school...even on Day 1! She adores it and always has stories to tell us at the end of the day. She especially loves being the 'milk pourer' at snack time and adores getting her wellies on for forest school!

It was hard saying goodbye to her again this morning as the summer holidays were so lovely. It was so nice to spend so much time together, especially as baby will be arriving any day now. I will always treasure our mother and daughter time, but I know how much she thrives at school and for now 3 days a week is just right for her.

I had this waiting for her at home time (obviously not the whole lot, but a slice :))

Oh and when we got home from pick up there were some lovely presents waiting for us on the doorstep from Grams.

For me a gorgeous vase, flowers and card (and check out the beautiful ribbon)

and of course a lovely treat or two for princess:

What will I be like next year when she starts reception!

This post is for The Gallery, the theme is ‘Back to School’.

Frivolous Friday: Shabby Chic Dressing Table

2012-08-31T06:29:00.000-07:00

I have always loved dressing tables, ever since I was a little girl. Growing up I had a lovely white wicker one, which I adored! But I have to say I was over the moon to get this one! Even Belle loves it, so I think we can see who it will be passed on to :)

Before putting all my trinkets on:

Belle staking her claim

It is so nice to have somewhere to sit down and dry my hair and get ready and it is just perfect for storage of all my makeup and hair bands etc. I have managed to get my earrings stored on here too but I think a jewellery armoire is going to have to be next on my wish list to go beside the dressing table, to cope with all my bracelets and bangles! Also with baby number two due any day now (eeek we are full term this weekend, 37 weeks!) it is so nice to have somewhere where I can have a bit of 'me' time.

Here it is after adding all my bits and bobs...

I just want to get some fairy lights or a string of roses to decorate the top now.