tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-52313029062132402582024-03-13T15:05:12.692+00:00Sarah + LauraThe Wonderful World of UsSarah + Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03602905789704757839noreply@blogger.comBlogger687125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5231302906213240258.post-12826348134290512472019-10-01T18:00:00.000+01:002019-10-01T18:00:18.920+01:00Welcome, Goodbye and Hope To See You Again!Why hello there, thanks for stopping by!<br />
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This will be our last and final post on our SarahplusLaura home, we've moved! Not too far I might add but to somewhere with a little more space, freedom to be ourselves and we think somewhere a little more fitting.<br />
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So come and find us at:<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="http://www.thesmithstory.co.uk/">The Smith Story</a></span></div>
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With the arrival of Annabelle we realised that 'Sarah plus Laura' was no longer our identifier, we are Sarah plus Laura, plus Annabelle plus Bisbee.....it's not quite so catchy. Our new name gives us space to grow.....</div>
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If you want to follow along with our new adventures, see where we are now or check out our latest content just click here: <a href="http://www.thesmithstory.co.uk/">http://www.thesmithstory.co.uk</a>, we'd love to see you!</div>
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We have also updated all our social media accounts to The Smith Story so come say hi on whatever account you are using. </div>
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SarahplusLaura has given us so much, thank you for being part of it. For reading, for sharing your comments and thoughts, for the emails, the stories - for it all. We will be migrating content over to The Smith Story gradually so it won't all be lost.</div>
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We will still be at sarahpluslaura@gmail.com if you have any questions!</div>
Sarah + Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03602905789704757839noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5231302906213240258.post-63072892048809695892019-08-19T21:38:00.000+01:002019-08-19T21:38:03.740+01:00Review: Buckt - Birmingham and Beyond!There are many things we love but high up on our list are:<br />
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<li>The city we live in - Birmingham</li>
<li>Days Out</li>
<li>Great Value</li>
<li>Doing things together</li>
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So anything that allows us to do any of these things, or a combination of these things is something we can get behind. <a href="https://www.buckt.uk/">Buckt</a> is one of those things!<br />
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You may remember last year we were lucky enough to be invited by Buckt to try our their subscription box for Birmingham (and surrounding areas), we shared our experience of what we got up to in these posts:<br />
<a href="https://sarahpluslaura.blogspot.com/2018/10/review-buckt-great-new-way-to-explore.html">Buckt: A Great New Way To Explore Birmingham</a><br />
<a href="https://sarahpluslaura.blogspot.com/2018/12/review-buckt-great-new-way-to-explore.html">Buckt: A Great New Way To Explore Birmingham and Beyond</a><br />
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A few of our highlights included Rage Room, Magic Lantern Festival, Ice Hockey Game, Bingo, Meditation and many more.<br />
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We've been invited to try out the subscription again, this time our box includes: A 20-20 cricket game, swimming in a quarry, trying (or retrying in our case) Subway sandwiches, a tour of Birmingham's Coffin Works AND taking on THE MONSTER - the worlds largest inflatable assault course.<br />
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We actually started with this activity and we may have made an error.....we are aching! But we had so much fun. Check out our Instagram stories for all the action!<br />
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Buckt is a great concept for so many reasons but a major thing for us is the opportunity to find and do activities that we have never heard about, in our own city. We would have never considered getting tickets for <a href="https://www.themonsteruk.com/">The Monster</a> but we would have missed out. Being big kids for an afternoon was liberating. We don't often get out as a couple and of we do it's for dinner, it's not to do something out of our comfort zone or something as ridiculous as sliding down 18 metre inflatable slides, lounging in an inflatable Unicorn ball pond or climbing 8ft vertical walls.<br />
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The other amazing thing about <a href="https://www.buckt.uk/sign-up-to-buckt/">Buckt</a> is the value. It's £25 for a two people box and The Monster would have been £25 per person!!! It's also great value if you want to take friends along to the activity - they were offering friends of the Buckt subscriber The Monster tickets at £17.50!<br />
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We can't get a meal for two for £25 let alone 5 activities if we were left to our own devices.<br />
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When we arrived at the NEC we followed signs to 'The Monster' and followed the flow of sport clothes wearing people into the venue. The queuing took 10 minutes and then before we knew it we were in a massive hall converted into a party. The music was pumping, the food stalls smelt amazing and The Monster was imposing.<br />
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As we walked in we spotted the beer pong tables set up, a giant bouncy castle and a giant inflatable Unicorn jam-packed with balls. A DJ booth and stage was welcoming people and at the back of the hall was a free cloakroom where we could leave the belongings we didn't want to lose on the assault course. If you time it right they have drag queen karaoke, boozy bingo and lots of other things going on.<br />
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They also have family friendly sessions on offer earlier in the day.<br />
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Walking towards the start we both took a deep breath and joined in with the warm up. There had been a bottle neck created on The Monster so we were being held for 5 minutes - not ideal as we could see what was ahead for the entire time. When the siren did sound for us to start it was intense. You run in through the mouth in groups of 6 and are straight into the obstacles.<br />
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The course has you going over, under, round, through, up, down you name in you will do it. From hurdling inflatable fences to battling through rings, sliding down slides and climbing walls you will use every muscle in your body. The wall itself is a feat not everyone achieves. They even have staff there to give you an extra boost at the end as the top foot rungs are slippy and require every bit of upper body strength. I managed it in my first attempt and helped a few other girls up as Laura - dutifully and very Britishly queued! - when it was her turn she did it in two and I was so proud. She could have easily given up but she took a deep breath and before I could get a video she was up and over and on to the next. My wife is a warrior!<br />
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It took us half an hour to get around the course and by the end we were exhausted, sweaty and very proud. When we first saw what we had to do we were intimidated, when we finished we realised just how capable we were and best of all we did it together, as a team. It was invigorating.<br />
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We finished with a bounce for fun on the giant castle and rested our weary bodies in the ball pond before summoning the strength we had left to get us back to the car and into a warm bath.<br />
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The Monster is in Birmingham until the 20th of August then 23-28th of August in London.</div>
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Sarah + Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03602905789704757839noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5231302906213240258.post-81369262298538583902019-08-13T22:53:00.002+01:002019-08-13T22:53:51.590+01:00Baby Blogging: The Truth About Sending a Baby To Daycare!Growing up my Mum was a childminder; it meant I didn't leave my Mum's side - other than for afternoons at nursery school - until I officially started school. Laura had a stay at home Mum. We were lucky to have a lot of our Mums' attentions for our childhoods and so when it came to having our own child we knew our preference was to have one of us stay home.<br />
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That preference is changing though. It didn't change overnight but it did change when we talked about our reality. The reality of living on one salary. The reality of saving for future children. We just so happened to see a new daycare being built on the corner of our street and then visiting that day care shifted the preference too. And so we went from being set on one of us being a stay at home Mum immediately to factoring day care into our plans (although likely not forever, as we still plan on Laura being a SAHM hopefully next year!).<br />
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We both agreed that full time day care wasn't something we wanted but we agreed that some time at day care could be beneficial for Annabelle.<br />
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For us we could not have made a better decision.<br />
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As I write this blog I find it shocking that I have been back at pretty much full time work for 4 months (I shared my thought on the end of maternity leave in this <a href="https://sarahpluslaura.blogspot.com/2019/04/baby-blogging-end-of-maternity-leave.html">post</a>). I am fortunate enough to have enough annual leave to take two or three Mondays off a month to look after Annabelle this year. My Mum has her two days per week and she is in day care two days.<br />
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We're pleasantly surprised at how far we have come as a family and how much daycare has helped so many parts of our lives. That includes:<br />
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<li><b>Annabelle eating </b>- she is now a pro at feeding herself and a lot of that is because of watching other kids at day care, and their onsite chef has introduced her to new foods we may not have had a chance to expose her to!</li>
<li><b>Annabelle walking</b> - of course she would have gotten there, but watching other babies figure it out definitely encouraged her</li>
<li><b>Imaginative play / playing by herself:</b> at first, watching her play by herself made my heart sink until I watched her making herself laugh and I realised that actually it is a positive development. At home we are often quick to jump in and play - desperate to spend every moment with her - but we have learnt that giving her space helps with her imagination.</li>
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<li><b>Confidence</b> - Annabelle's and ours. Annabelle because she is encouraged to be capable. To help put shoes and socks on, to help tidy up, to join in on games, to play with different textures (water, sand, flour, food - thankfully with them clearing up :) ), in different environments (mud kitchen, garden, sand pit, dress up area, play kitchen, soft play area, climbing frame), with different children and daycare staff. All of it means that she walks into her room with confidence now and barely notices the goodbye. </li>
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<li>Our confidence because we get feedback on A's progress that assures us she is developing well for her age and we are doing the right thing. This is a big one for us. As first time Mums who don't know many kids I was worried about what I should be encouraging Annabelle to do and how I should do it. This development class I did was great but other than that it was just me and her at home and while it was great when she was a baby it would be a lot of work to entertain her and help her develop on my own day in and day out now. </li>
<li><b>Social Skills -</b> Our Annabelle shares, cares and loves big. If we are out and about or she's in daycare you will see her beeline to other children wanting to play. She will share her toys, kiss others and be gentle to babies - we love it so, so much and I don't honestly think she would have had the same exposure if it wasn't for day care.</li>
<li><b>Communication -</b> I know kids develop skills as they get older but you can tell being around her peers has sped this up for her. Her pointing and happy squeals get us in the feels right now and you can tell she is really trying to have conversations.</li>
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<li><b>Routine - </b>at first we were afraid of having to adapt to the day care routine but they have actually been guiding us and telling us when they think Annabelle is ready to make a change. They've been good about working with our concerns/opinions too. Together, we have always guided Annabelle through routine changes very successfully.</li>
<li><b>So much love. </b>I know that sounds weird, how can leaving Annabelle create love - in our world it's simple. We have quality time with Annabelle as we have been able to clear our life admin / get our jobs done without having to compromise time with her. Annabelle appreciates the one on one attention from us but loves being around the other kids - I mean who wouldn't want to play all day in a purpose built room :) And then the daycare staff, they all love Annabelle. I mean ,not in the same way as us, but they are excited to tell us how good she's been or when she achieved something, or enjoyed something. They smile when they see her and give her hugs goodbye. From the receptionist to the room leader, the chef to the garden attendant they all know Annabelle. And she waves at them like friends. It makes our hearts happy. </li>
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At first Annabelle would come home exhausted, her naps there weren't as long as at home, but now she comes home full of smiles and we have three wonderful hours together. She has nap time there sorted and often sleeps longer there than at home.<br />
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It is amazing. We have mentioned before that we get video access and that does make a big difference but we also really like the reviews we get that score her development against the Early Years Foundation Stages. We also like term summaries that share things like:<br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;">'Annabelle has a good relationship with adults and her peers. She has started to engage more in activities and play alongside her peers, sometimes copying what they do.'</span><br />
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And the observations we get are great. They are pictures with descriptions of what she has been doing.<br />
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All in all we have had a very positive day care experience and we hope it continues. The fact that the day care is a 3 minute walk away makes it feel like she's not far away and we can get to her quickly should we ever need to.<br />
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Have you put your child in nursery/daycare, and what are your experiences with it?<br />
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<br />Sarah + Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03602905789704757839noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5231302906213240258.post-49377066654890738172019-08-11T22:07:00.003+01:002019-08-11T22:07:41.719+01:00Travel: UK Day Trips - The South!You may have seen our last post on Day Trips in the Midlands, if not see <a href="https://sarahpluslaura.blogspot.com/2019/07/travel-uk-day-trips-midlands.html">here</a>.<br />
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South:<br />
<b>Glastonbury & Stonehenge:</b> If you love history and impressive sites then heading south could be your thing. Glastonbury is quaint but full of everything you need to entertain you for an afternoon and Stonehenge is just as majestic as you expect. The area is perfect for stretching your legs and enjoying impressive sights! To read more click <a href="https://sarahpluslaura.blogspot.com/2017/03/review-stonehenge-glastonbury-uk.html">here</a>.<br />
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<b>Brighton:</b> We do love to be beside the seaside and this town has so much to offer come rain or shine, if you haven't been we would suggest you do. For a day, a weekend or a week - you'll always find something to do. See what we got up to <a href="https://sarahpluslaura.blogspot.com/2011/11/what-we-love-wednesday-we-do-like-to-be.html">here</a>.<br />
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<b>Cambridge: </b>Pretty, interesting and jam-packed with history this city is worth adding to your to-do list. If you go for the day you can focus on the highlights - punting, Universities, pretty streets to explore but if you go for the weekend this place has so much to offer you'll never get bored! See what we did <a href="https://sarahpluslaura.blogspot.com/2014/10/mini-break-cambridge.html">here</a>.<br />
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<b>Newquay:</b> If you have time to head to the south of England you have so much beautiful coast to choose from you could easily spend weeks exploring. However if you need to pick a destination then Newquay should be on the to-do list. With plenty of sandy beaches, activities you can do in and out of the rain and so many places to explore <a href="https://sarahpluslaura.blogspot.com/2019/03/review-family-friendly-mini-break-in.html">here's</a> what we got up to. <br />
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<b>Devon:</b> The English Riveria, located in the South West and never more than 25 miles from a beach this place is perfect for families with dogs or people who like walks. The scenery is stunning and there are plenty of villages and places to explore. South Milton was a highlight as it had a dog friendly beach all year round, for other highlights check <a href="https://sarahpluslaura.blogspot.com/2017/06/devon-english-riviera.html">here</a>.<br />
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Sudbury: A chance to explore Suffolk will take you back in time, with quaint villages and old timey places to discover. Another great place to take dogs and kids you can make a base from any of the villages and spend your time picking the next place on your to-do list. Click <a href="https://sarahpluslaura.blogspot.com/2013/03/celebrating-4-years-with-trip-to-country.html">here</a>'s what we got up to.<br />
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Happy Travels</div>
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Sarah + Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03602905789704757839noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5231302906213240258.post-32544956291741104312019-08-07T21:29:00.000+01:002019-08-07T21:33:36.226+01:00Baby Blogging: The End Of Breastfeeding!13 months and 5 days ago our wonderful Annabelle joined our family and from the moment she arrived she has been breastfeeding. For the entire time I have been her Mum I have been breastfeeding her.<br />
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That was until now.<br />
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I haven't completely stopped breastfeeding but it is slowing down. And both Annabelle and I okay with it. I think. It's time.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Independent lady</td></tr>
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The last hurdle we have to overcome is the midnight snack. For the last few weeks we have been giving Annabelle a bottle of cows milk at bedtime - around 5oz. Then just as we are drifting off to sleep Annabelle will wake up wanting food. At that point breastfeeding is the easiest option.<br />
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The same can be said of mornings. We haven't figured out getting a bottle ready in time for Annabelle waking up so I often pick her up and feed her. I also like the time we get together in the morning as often Annabelle wakes up super happy.<br />
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We are aiming to have ourselves sorted and Annabelle fully weaned by 15 months as we were reading that at that point she will develop a new sense of attachment that will be harder to break.<br />
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It's not easy writing that this is (almost) the end but then very little is easy raising a kid. The upside is that the rewards are amazing and constant. The enjoyment is more than I ever expected as Annabelle is no longer a baby it does make sense that she doesn't need me in quite the same way.<br />
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It's amazing reading the first post <a href="https://sarahpluslaura.blogspot.com/2018/07/baby-blogging-breastfeeding.html">here</a> and how far we have come.<br />
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Two months in we were finding our rhythm and I shared this post <a href="https://sarahpluslaura.blogspot.com/2018/09/baby-blogging-breastfeeding-truth.html">here</a> on how I was getting on.<br />
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At nine months I shared this post <a href="https://sarahpluslaura.blogspot.com/2019/04/baby-blogging-nine-months-of.html">here</a> about preparing to go back to work and still breastfeed.<br />
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At ten months I was able to share this post on breastfeeding and working <a href="https://sarahpluslaura.blogspot.com/2019/04/baby-blogging-breastfeeding-almost-10.html">here</a>.<br />
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And then this was the last post I shared on a year of breastfeeding <a href="https://sarahpluslaura.blogspot.com/2019/07/baby-blogging-year-of-breastfeeding.html">here</a>.<br />
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Happy world breastfeeding week to those Mum's out there who are able to breastfeed and kudos to those Mama's making it work feeding babies in another way!<br />
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<br />Sarah + Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03602905789704757839noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5231302906213240258.post-38268713513674334672019-08-05T22:16:00.000+01:002019-08-05T22:16:16.683+01:00Life Update: After The Storm Comes A Rainbow!So a few weeks ago I shared this post: <a href="https://sarahpluslaura.blogspot.com/2019/07/life-update-sometimes-struggle-is-real.html">Sometimes The Struggle Is Real!</a> Life had become somewhat overwhelming for a number of reasons and I wrote the post as a way of clearing my head and sharing what was going on with us.<br />
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That was a few weeks ago and opening this page to start this post I am in a much better place. Thankfully. Things haven't slowed down but things have become more manageable.<br />
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In fact we have spent the weekend singing, dancing and celebrating at Brighton Pride with my Mum, two Aunts and sister. It was an amazing weekend and wandering down Brighton pier I was able to breathe a sigh of relief. I am surrounded by love and support and when things are tough I know my tribe are there for me.<br />
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My wonderful wife is the leader of the tribe, the brightest colour in my rainbow and the best support I could ever ask for.<br />
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In the last few weeks I have organised and run a conference for the growing sales team I am part of managing - 32 people at last count! We have launched new content in subjects I haven't had time to get up to speed on but have supported. I have been to different team meetings, met lots of new people and joined in with wider company activities in a away to get myself up to speed with things as quick as possible. The new normal is still a away off but I am working towards it.<br />
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And then home and Annabelle. Part of my struggle was because I was missing having time with Annabelle but in the last few weeks I feel like this has started to change, culminating with this weekend and today. This weekend I was able to get plenty of Annabelle time even though there were others that she spent time with. She was on top form and an absolute joy to be around. Today I had the day off and it felt so good - although she had a two hour nap which then left be tidying instead of spending time with her I was still able to enjoy her company, and catch up on Bisbee hugs. I guess naps are necessary sadly!<br />
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Annabelle has also been sleeping better so I am less tired. It's amazing what sleep can do for you. I always knew it but having the recent evidence has been eye-opining - or eye closing :)<br />
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I honestly don't think we could have handled Pride a few weeks ago. With the amount of house projects and stuff going on in life I think we would have felt too exhausted. However Laura really stepped it up and in the last week we had one of our bathrooms finished, the conservatory/playroom is almost completed - including a newly painted wall courtesy of Laura and the last bits will be down to us instead of workmen which is a really nice feeling.<br />
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It meant that the timing of Pride was a great celebration, a celebration of how far my Mum has come in accepting our relationship, a great celebration of being a rainbow family and a great celebration that love is really all you need.<br />
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We stayed in Worthing, a 20 minute drive from Brighton. we arrived on Friday, after a three hour drive from Birmingham and three hours of my Mum and Aunt Janette entertaining and feeding Annabelle. My Auntie Karen and sister arrived shortly after and we dined on fish and chips before catching up and bed.<br />
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Saturday was a fairly early start so we could get to Brighton, get parked and get to the parade route. We were able to find a spot and spread out on the curb so we could feed Annabelle before the parade arrived. It also meant we could rest our legs from the walk down. Much needed as we then spent two hours enjoying the parade.<br />
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After the parade we strolled towards Brighton pier and enjoyed the atmosphere, Annabelle loved watching the sea and we enjoyed the time with people special to us. Powered by doughnuts we made it back to the car and then the house for an evening of games and snacks.<br />
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On Sunday we explored Worthing and enjoy the beach front and another meal of fish and chips before heading back to Birmingham.<br />
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I don't know if it was the sea air, the rainbows everywhere we looked or just the outpouring of love but Brighton certainly brightened how I am feeling.<br />
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Onwards and upwards!<br />
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<br />Sarah + Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03602905789704757839noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5231302906213240258.post-27048098048548925292019-07-29T22:49:00.002+01:002019-08-07T21:40:02.813+01:00Travel: UK Day Trips - The Midlands!The UK is amazing. I feel like we have started more than a few posts with that line over the year. Being based in the Midlands we have been able to take full advance of exploring this wonderful island.<br />
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We thought we'd take a moment to round up our UK highlights, it ended up being too much for one post so we have split it into three - starting with the Midlands, followed by the South and then the North! So if you want a day trip or mini break or long weekend then there might be somewhere for you to check out.<br />
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So without further ado here's our list:<br />
<b><u>Midlands:</u></b><br />
<b>Stratford-Upon-Avon: </b>This beautiful town that sits beside the ever stunning Avon river is at its best in Summer. With events happening almost daily and enough history to keep you entertained for weeks this place is a MUST visit - here's a few more reasons why you need to add it to your to do list: post <a href="https://sarahpluslaura.blogspot.com/2015/04/stratford-upon-avon.html">here</a>.<br />
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<b>Warwick: </b>Another must for history fans and based in the middle of England is Warwick - home to the world famous castle and beautiful town sat among rolling hills. Easy to get to and jam packed with things to do this town is for everyone. If you want to read more on the castle check out what to expect <a href="https://sarahpluslaura.blogspot.com/2019/06/review-warwick-castle-uk.html">here</a>.<br />
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<b>Birmingham:</b> We couldn't miss out our home town. From the worlds largest Primark to entertain the shopping fans to Legoland and aquarium, more canals than Venice, parks galore, a wildlife conservation park and so, so, so much more you can't head to the Midlands and not visit Birmingham. Here's a couple of other reasons for stopping by: click <a href="https://sarahpluslaura.blogspot.com/2013/05/birmingham-uk-city-guide.html">here</a>.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">World's biggest Primark!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo from <a href="https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/guide/where-to-eat-birmingham">https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/guide/where-to-eat-birmingham</a></td></tr>
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<b>Nottingham:</b> Home of Robin Hood and Sherwood Forest this city mixes ancient myth with modern offerings and is definitely worth a day trip. If you want to visit the area but avoid the hustle and bustle of the centre we suggest checking out Wollaton Hall, <a href="https://sarahpluslaura.blogspot.com/2016/04/uk-day-trip-wollaton-hall-nottingham.html">here's why</a>.<br />
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<b>Aston:</b> Home of Aston Villa for the football fans - it is a super impressive stadium and home to Aston Hall - where James Watts (steam engine builder) this place is worth jumping on a train from Birmingham to see. The house offers tours and click <a href="https://sarahpluslaura.blogspot.com/2018/01/aston-hall-review.html">here</a> to see what to expect.<br />
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<b>Cadburys World</b>: A day eating and learning about chocolate is what you can expect with a trip to Cadbury's World and who doesn't love that?! Well actually if you don't there is so much more than a trip to the factory. Based Bourneville the factory is surrounded by the most chocolate box town you will ever see. Every building is beautiful, the park, the school - it's all perfect, and well worth a visit. Oh and it's only a short drive or train ride from Birmingham. Click <a href="https://sarahpluslaura.blogspot.com/2012/05/whats-happening-hot-stuff-our.html">here</a> for our experience.<br />
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<b>The Cotswolds: </b>We LOVE this beautiful part of the country so much. There are so many beautiful places to explore, small villages, chocolate box cottages, quaint cafes, stunning walks and places to relax. Whether it's admiring the fields of lavender (<a href="https://sarahpluslaura.blogspot.com/2016/05/bank-holiday-cotswold-trip.html">here</a>'s where you can check it out), walking by the river or figuring out is lower or upper slaughter is the prettiest you can get lost in the Cotswolds for days - we did and here's what we got up to - click <a href="https://sarahpluslaura.blogspot.com/2016/05/bank-holiday-cotswold-trip.html">here</a>.<br />
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And if you want to wear your kids out or have a ton of fun yourself then Star City is also worth adding to the to-do list. With indoor mini golf, laser quest, bowling, roller rink and so much more you won't be bored on a visit. See what we did when we visited <a href="https://sarahpluslaura.blogspot.com/2018/11/review-star-city-birmingham.html">here</a>.</div>
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Are there any Midland must do's that you would add to the list?</div>
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<br />Sarah + Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03602905789704757839noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5231302906213240258.post-59666434549414319452019-07-17T20:55:00.002+01:002019-07-17T22:08:27.749+01:00Life Update - Sometimes, The Struggle Is Real.I am lucky. I am super lucky. And yet despite being super lucky I am struggling right now. The wonderful world of social media allows a snapshot into our life - the highlight reel if you like. It creates a grid filled with smiles and happy moments that we love to look back on. A Twitter feed of life observations and a Facebook timeline of curated content that shares our story.<br />
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All of it is true. No picture is ever faked - it may be retaken half a dozen times when the baby and dog are involved- but it is always capturing a moment that happened.<br />
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But that is never the whole story.<br />
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Instagram Stories are the closest you will get to seeing our real life. To seeing what goes into everyday. The highs, the lows and the moments in between. Catch us on a good day and you'd think we lead a privileged life - and we do. We lead a life we are very grateful for. Even that isn't the whole story though.<br />
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Life right now, for me at least, is hard. There are some days right now that I am really struggling through.<br />
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Just before I came back from maternity leave in April my company announced it had been acquired by a much bigger organisation. I came back to a Welcome Day where the company was sharing its vision and what the acquisition meant for the the staff. It was a day I am glad I made it back for.<br />
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What wasn't shared at the day was exactly how much is involved in the acquisition. I'm not sure anyone fully knew. I'm still not sure people know. All I know is for me it has meant a LOT more work. I left for maternity leave with a team of 6, and came back to a team of 9. That team is now 12. That is double the amount of people and triple the amount of work.<br />
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To add to the challenge, the 6 additions weren't recruited by me - I am having to get to know them, they have their own requirements on me and my time and are double the work of the original 6. I am having to do a lot of 'sucking it up' at the moment. The team's roles are changing, their targets are increasing and the way they work will be looked at. There is additional training, for them, for me. There are meetings to understand the wider company, their products on offer and all the while the wider business is trying to get hold of our account book to approach them themselves, potentially jeopardising existing relationships. I feel like everyday is endless calls trying to figure things out and find out more info. It can be exhausting.<br />
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I have never travelled for work as much as I have the last few months and I find myself doing that terrible thing of switching the laptop on once Annabelle has gone to bed in order to get through my inbox.<br />
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I am tired.<br />
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I am tired because of work and I am tired because I am adjusting to a wake up of 6 am. It's the time Annabelle has decided is her get up time. Occasionally she'll nap while I feed her first thing but most often she is awake and ready to go. Initially I was exhausted - I used to get up at 7.30 am but I am adjusting and now I'm just tired.<br />
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I am grateful she didn't start this wake up time in winter, at least in summer I get up to sunshine. This morning I actually appreciated the time with her before leaving for the train at 7 am. We are dozy but able to play and I can make sure I see her smile for what may be my only time that day.<br />
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Here lies one of my biggest struggles. My lack of time with Annabelle, or should I say lack of quality time. It used to be that Annabelle and I had all day every day together and I loved it - more than I thought I would (if you ever read this <a href="https://sarahpluslaura.blogspot.com/2019/01/baby-blogging-maternity-leave-my-story.html">post</a>). In fact I loved it so much I debated extending my maternity leave. For all the right reasons, I didn't, but I really wish I could head off on maternity leave for a couple of months with her at the moment. She's adorable right now. Except I usually see her when she's super tired and ready for bed. It means she smiles at me then cries wanting milk. That's my brief 'time with Annabelle'. If I'm lucky I get a quick play in but as soon as the clock strikes 6.55 pm, it's bedtime.<br />
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Then there's the small matter of a flat I own in Scotland causing issues. Firstly there was a large tax bill (another story) but the long and the short of it being I didn't know I should have been paying tax and when I found out I declared it and got threatened with a £35k fine. This all happened on maternity leave. Thankfully it ended up being nearer £8k but that blew all our maternity leave savings. It's something I feel guilty about no matter how many times Laura tells me not to. Then my tenant handed in her notice and the fridge broke. It's a lot of expense at a time we really don't need it. We can't sell it as nothing is selling in that area and if we can't find a new tenant we'll have two mortgages to cover. I am struggling with a lot of guilt about it. It was an investment I made when I was younger and now we are both having to look after it.<br />
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The final thing I am struggling with is my role within our relationship. We are a team. We are a great team but Laura is the MVP. She cooks, she cleans, shes organises our life. She does the nursery drop off and pick up and looks after all Annabelle's schedule and preparation. She plans and executes - our conservatory wouldn't have been built for years (if ever) if left to me. We'd never go on holiday. Weekends would come and go without me noticing. Laura shops, she makes sure we are seeing our friends, she hosts events to thank our family and friends for their support and all while she is making me feel loved and appreciated. To say the roles are unequally split at the moment is an understatement.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My hero</td></tr>
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Sure there are some things I do, I do my best whenever and wherever I can but I am best when I focus on one thing at a time and with my brain absorbed at work it means it takes me longer to achieve anything. Laura never lets her frustration show. In fact when I admit I am struggling she's the one who tells me I do enough. It gets me through.<br />
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I made a deal with myself and Laura on my birthday that I would focus less on what I am not doing and more on what I am doing. I will focus on my achievements and where I am making progress. I will stress less about what I can't impact and accept that sometimes things are shit, and that's okay, it won't be that way forever. And I will look after myself - prioritising doing what makes me happy. I did that today. I had a meeting scheduled for the end of the day that would have meant I got back at 8 pm. When the meeting was rescheduled I jumped on our booking system and changed my train time (I wouldn't have done this previously as it cost my company money but today I thought - I'm part of a bigger company and you know what, they won't notice the loss) and I will get a small time with Annabelle when I get in at 6.30 pm. This makes me happy.<br />
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I know this feeling of struggling won't last. I know that there are reasons for feeling like I do and those reasons will change over time. I know that getting more sleep will help. I know that acknowledging I am struggling, rather than persevering and feeling alone, will help. I know that making small changes is already helping. I also know that capturing the happy moments every day are good reminders that even on the hard days there are reasons to smile. I am lucky, I know that. I just have to get through this tough time and acknowledge that it's just that - a period in time.<br />
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<br />Sarah + Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03602905789704757839noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5231302906213240258.post-43454220177573809352019-07-13T13:42:00.000+01:002019-07-14T22:27:38.387+01:00Baby Blogging: A Year Of Breastfeeding!I didn't think that I would ever be writing the statement 'I have breastfed for a year'. In fact I am somewhat shocked that breastfeeding is something I have been able to do for a year. Physically and managing it having being back in a full time job for over 2 months.<br />
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I wished I had purchased a battery breast pump, it is amazing how requiring a plug to be able to pump really restricts you. The amount of time I have ended up hand expressing in bathrooms as the office I am in doesn't have a meeting room that doesn't have glass windows - great for airiness, terrible for privacy!<br />
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Breastfeeding has definitely been a journey for me. A fairly easy journey for the most part but at the start I didn't expect to be saying that.<br />
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My first breastfeeding post was when Annabelle was a few weeks old. You can read it <a href="https://sarahpluslaura.blogspot.com/2018/07/baby-blogging-breastfeeding.html">here</a>. My introduction to breastfeeding wasn't the idealistic experience we had been told about in antenatal classes.<br />
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Two months into breastfeeding Annabelle and I had found our rhythm but it wasn't without challenges. I shared my experience in this post <a href="https://sarahpluslaura.blogspot.com/2018/09/baby-blogging-breastfeeding-truth.html">here</a> - it includes some breastfeeding truths I never knew about!<br />
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Being back at work has probably been the biggest change in my breastfeeding journey though. For almost 3 months I have had to factor in pumping in order to keep our supply of milk stocked up for Annabelle to have when I am not around. I have had to make time when I am in the office, I have had to find time in my work day and I have to plan to not be travelling too much in one day that would mean I couldn't pump once my boobs have filled up. It can be a logistical nightmare.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is meant to be a good read and full of advice!</td></tr>
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I do love the morning feeds. I try my upmost to be there for the first feed of the day as it is time for just us. Annabelle usually sleeps until 6.30am-ish so I am often able to get up and feed her while we doze and then really wake up around 7am when she has finished. I also do my best to be home for bedtime feeds. Nighttime feeds are sadly more hit and miss based on trains and meetings but I only miss a feed once or twice a month so I can't complain.<br />
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When I am working from home (which I get to do fairly often) it is a benefit if I can do it on days that Annabelle is being looked after my Mum so she's in the house. That way I can time my lunch break so I can come and feed Annabelle pre-nap.<br />
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The one thing that has changed significantly over the year is the way Annabelle feeds. At the start feeds were short and it was easy to tell when she was done. Nowadays feeds can last anywhere between 20 mins and 45 mins. They are less frequent but it is also harder to tell if/when she has had enough. She can be easily distracted and will often have some milk, get down off me, wander around, come back for me. In addition it has created an interesting challenge in our relationship.<br />
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For Annabelle's entire life I have been a source of food and comfort and sometimes it is hard to separate myself from being that and just be Mum. I can walk through the door after a meeting or walk downstairs for a refreshment and Annabelle will be on me. I may get a hug but within 5 minutes if I am not feeding her she will meltdown. That is hard. It is not always related to her usual feeding times so it's not predictable, all I know is I get a few minutes of her being excited to see me followed by a really tough time. What's harder is she can be easily pacified by others - it's just me that gets the hard time.<br />
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I am at the stage now where I can honestly say I have no idea how much longer I will continue breastfeeding. I think we will try and naturally phase it out. Annabelle eats a lot and is happy drinking anything from a bottle (now) so we can start to introduce other milk if we need to. While I love the bonding and time we have together during feeding I won't miss the fidgeting, the hitting, the epic feeds that mean I can be sat alone (as Annabelle will be napping while she feeds) listening to everything happening outside. This isn't always an issue but at events it leaves me feeling isolated.<br />
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And then there are the leaps. When Annabelle is going through a leap then feeding becomes more of a priority, she uses it as comfort but also because she seems to need more food. Unfortunately in a leap Annabelle also seems to go off actual food or make it more difficult to feed her easily.<br />
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So there it is. A year of breastfeeding. We've been lucky to have had such a good run, I'll be forever grateful that I have been able to breastfeed, parenting would certainly have had different challenges had I not.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Climbing the stairs at Warwick Castle</td></tr>
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I mean without breastfeeding we'll have to figure out whole new ways to comfort Annabelle, calm her down, feed her on the go, get her to sleep - we have definitely taken the easy way out so far!<br />
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I wonder if there will be an 18 months of breastfeeding post????<br />
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<br />Sarah + Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03602905789704757839noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5231302906213240258.post-46422025253747385112019-07-08T20:32:00.004+01:002019-07-08T20:32:59.335+01:00Baby Blogging: 4th of July First Birthday!Unlike straight couples there was a certain amount of additional planning that went in to us having Annabelle. In fact you can read all about it <a href="https://sarahpluslaura.blogspot.com/2017/12/baby-blogging-where-it-all-began.html">here</a>. What that planning meant was that we had a good idea on when Annabelle would be making an appearance.<br />
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As only 4% of babies arrive on their due date we knew it was never going to be an exact science but I secretly hoped that her arrival would miss our anniversary on the 28th of June and my birthday on the 13th of July. Laura, loudly, hoped for a 4th of July baby. </div>
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As the due date drew nearer and it was confirmed that I was to have a C-Section we were given the date of the 7th of July. I could relax and Laura could give up her 4th of July plan. That was until I got a phone call moving the C-Section to the 2nd. Any relaxing went out the window and Laura decided that the 2nd was close enough to the 4th to decree that Annabelle would have a 4th of July themed parties until she told us something different.</div>
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Laura stuck true to that plan and on the 6th 2019 we hosted Annabelle's blue, white and red themed first birthday.</div>
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With family flying in from Australia and America and travelling from Kent, London, Manchester it was quite the gathering. Laura's colleague had her two young daughters and my cousin had her little boy. Add to the mix two pregnant ladies and 6 dogs it was a party to remember.<br />
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In true British Summer time style the beautiful sunny weather had left us with cloudy skies that turned to drizzle but nothing put a dampener on the day. We hosted the party at my parents and had thankfully left the marquee there from a previous event. First task of the day was setting that up followed by decorating the garden. </div>
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Thankfully Annabelle was willing to have her regularly schedule nap on time and napped 45 minutes into the party allowing us to greet everyone before she made her entrance. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sleepy girl making her arrival</td></tr>
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Our lovely friends Allie and Anita had made and decorated a phenomenal cake that Annabelle and everyone loved so much there was none left (gutted)! </div>
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We had a BBQ with burgers and sausages accompanied by Laura's mac and cheese and a selection of goodies. </div>
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The garden had separated the area into three - dogs, children and everyone else and it worked really well. The dogs had fun chasing each other and the balls. The babies were entertained by the dogs and had blankets covered in toys and everyone else had access to the food, drink and seats. Bisbee was the only exception to the rule and managed to sneak into the baby area, finish off the plate of a mac and cheese one of my aunts had left to tend to a baby, and then disappear leaving us all scratching our heads on to how well she'd plan the hustle!<br />
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The evening was mainly family that were staying but we set up a s'mores station and enjoyed roasting marshmallows before embarking on a highly competitive game of boules and finishing with sparklers.<br />
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It was a wonderful day, Annabelle was amazing - a little taken back at the happy birthday song but very happy to get stuck into cake. It was great to have so many of our friends and family there. They have been such a great support to us in the year since Annabelle arrived and if anything this party was a thank you to them. And a celebration of us keeping Annabelle alive for a year :)<br />
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We hope that you had a wonderful 4th if you were celebrating!</div>
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And thank you to everyone who sent Annabelle birthday wishes!</div>
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Sarah + Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03602905789704757839noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5231302906213240258.post-37960616301005357402019-07-05T20:55:00.001+01:002019-07-05T20:55:34.192+01:00Vuelio Top 10 LGBT Blogs Announced!In celebration of Pride Vuelio announced their Top 10 LGBT blog list for 2019 and we were lucky enough to be featured, again, and be invited to do a Spotlight Interview!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0aZq4rh07EZdHWqu1ktvrh_220CoL-8DT7e3q283biIURMqtgdb8LTj3zPMSecE7hLca33t5g0raFADrA-AYdWl4XhWAvJHIVSjyR0hFh11ZSvSlMzdI2ShsQRk9SzCqjyuktlF85tKg/s1600/pride%2521.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="607" data-original-width="827" height="468" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0aZq4rh07EZdHWqu1ktvrh_220CoL-8DT7e3q283biIURMqtgdb8LTj3zPMSecE7hLca33t5g0raFADrA-AYdWl4XhWAvJHIVSjyR0hFh11ZSvSlMzdI2ShsQRk9SzCqjyuktlF85tKg/s640/pride%2521.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
Our spotlight is <a href="https://www.vuelio.com/uk/blog/lgbt-spotlight-sarah-laura/" target="_blank">here</a>! We were asked questions about our blog, our experience as an LGBT couple and our experience as bloggers.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiNeTx7kuHVAIpTn3BBWRo5T0WGpKTbYX7QY9Yc-TEScbp41HTUyKEQkcXdjOIz_Qx3LNVhdHUpMpnVU1ssxYRP5RyTdboOHVBTWFpbcybr5GhE0lzBEtk6YwAmcKUAuLGXdRRR9-0rNM/s1600/spotlight.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="460" data-original-width="797" height="368" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiNeTx7kuHVAIpTn3BBWRo5T0WGpKTbYX7QY9Yc-TEScbp41HTUyKEQkcXdjOIz_Qx3LNVhdHUpMpnVU1ssxYRP5RyTdboOHVBTWFpbcybr5GhE0lzBEtk6YwAmcKUAuLGXdRRR9-0rNM/s640/spotlight.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
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To see the full 2019 list click <a href="https://www.vuelio.com/uk/social-media-index/uk-lesbian-gay-bisexual-and-transgender-blogs/">here</a>.<br />
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We were first announced on the list as number 6 in 2017 - details are <a href="https://www.vuelio.com/uk/blog/lgbt-spotlight-sarah-laura/" target="_blank">here</a>. Featured at number 6 again in 2018, our spotlight from back then is <a href="https://www.vuelio.com/uk/blog/blogger-spotlight-sarah-laura/">here</a> that included our Proud To Love YouTube video!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaX7LrVVkN_GY9U8S-f4rk-kpGUpjFYfi4bfxGri2FLjJ0DB6DSK5VTY4PYz87n1ildRXQ37veKee2VrLGoUecBhq-4QxyvKpbq0hXMz38nFOh9IL-hz_MHRV8xIuYygOGH_ha-BQLsV0/s1600/blog2.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="636" data-original-width="1057" height="384" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaX7LrVVkN_GY9U8S-f4rk-kpGUpjFYfi4bfxGri2FLjJ0DB6DSK5VTY4PYz87n1ildRXQ37veKee2VrLGoUecBhq-4QxyvKpbq0hXMz38nFOh9IL-hz_MHRV8xIuYygOGH_ha-BQLsV0/s640/blog2.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
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We are so grateful that our blog is seen as a useful resource and proud to be representing our wonderful LGBT community!<br />
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<br />Sarah + Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03602905789704757839noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5231302906213240258.post-1678682890666961502019-07-02T12:26:00.003+01:002019-07-02T12:26:53.358+01:00Baby Blogging - Annabelle Turns One!OMG Annabelle is one!<br />
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And we are totes emosh.<br />
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How was it a whole year ago that we were sharing this <a href="https://sarahpluslaura.blogspot.com/2018/07/baby-blogging-birth-announcement.html" target="_blank">post</a> with our birth announcement and this <a href="https://sarahpluslaura.blogspot.com/2018/07/baby-blogging-birth-announcement.html" target="_blank">post</a> about Annabelle's birth story.<br />
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Our first year as a family has been incredible. It has been full of the most amazing highs, memories that will make us smile forever and so, so many photos. Every day for 365 days we have found a reason to smile, sometimes unexpectedly, sometimes through silliness, sometimes in the face of ridiculousness.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoyIx5KIDWMVH3BKB0Z7LTHRzr4J8tpbeSaqaK42zQI_Msa8lQ8Fzlp8wAOt0IBcaMt0Vg8u43Qlt6DnKqp7hNOS1dIwgqkNqCOYFYRzprnpvZNaQ8ktsAecpsado99GrRG6F9K7tDOw8/s1600/funny.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="960" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoyIx5KIDWMVH3BKB0Z7LTHRzr4J8tpbeSaqaK42zQI_Msa8lQ8Fzlp8wAOt0IBcaMt0Vg8u43Qlt6DnKqp7hNOS1dIwgqkNqCOYFYRzprnpvZNaQ8ktsAecpsado99GrRG6F9K7tDOw8/s400/funny.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fighting over a flip flop</td></tr>
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There are too many highlights. Too many firsts to keep track of and so many good times.</div>
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We've slept more than we expected - thank you Annabelle for loving sleep as much as us. We have asked Google for help more than ever before, top questions being: Hey Google.....<br />
Can a 6,7,8,9,10,11 month old eat......<br />
What temperature is too high/hot?<br />
Is ...... okay?<br />
Is ...... normal?<br />
How do we get a baby to .....?<br />
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We have had more fun making food than before. We have watched less TV, we have danced and sung more than we have in 10 years together. Our preparation skills are on point (most of the time) but what we have actually learnt is that we are far more relaxed at parenting that we thought we would be. There are moments that we freak out but in general we let her be independent and find her way.<br />
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Annabelle has led us, she led us with her nap schedule, with her sleep training, with her new skills - sitting, eating, standing, crawling, walking. Entertaining her is easy as she loves watching what we are doing and is happy to play by herself.<br />
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Annabelle adapted to nursery better than we could have ever hoped - I loved our 9 months together but have seen the positive impact that nursery has had. I wished my return to work had been easier and a little less busy but that's life - see the details <a href="https://sarahpluslaura.blogspot.com/2019/04/baby-blogging-end-of-maternity-leave.html" target="_blank">here</a>. I still get to see her when I work from home and I have had the wonderful opportunity to take annual leave on most Mondays since being back.<br />
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We have travelled - to New York via Dublin, to Norway via Amsterdam, to Scotland and to so many other places in the UK. We've been on planes, on trains and had added so many miles to the car. Through it all there have been challenging moments BUT so many good times, so many moments where we have been amazed at how well Annabelle adapted. Annabelle smiling at passengers on the plane and making people smile back, having an entire tube carriage clapping, making strangers stick out their tongue in the supermarket. Hi-5ing old people everywhere and anywhere, making funny chatting noises on the phone to grandparents. Making anyone get to the floor to chase her to see her laugh. Annabelle is entertainment value.<br />
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Annabelle just brings so much joy. To us. To our families. To everyone. She lights up a room. I had always heard that phrase but having Annabelle I truly know what it means. At parties, at family gatherings, when people visit there is always joy wherever Annabelle is.<br />
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She is rambunctious, tenacious, determined, strong, funny, cheeky, charming, adorable, clever, stubborn, thoughtful, giving, witty and so much more. She has been so much more than we thought. She has made motherhood so much more fun and had us saying 'we need to have more' on so many occasions - not because she's not enough but because as she grows up and needs us less we will need to have more opportunities to experience this level of love.<br />
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Annabelle's hug will make you melt, her raspberries will soak you, her dinner time antics will force you to suppress giggles, her battle cries will make you move quicker than ever before and her kisses will have you fearing for your cheeks. Her smile makes you smile, her laugh will make you want to do anything to hear it again. She'll love on you, play with you and encourage you to build things. She'll show off new skills and applaud herself at every opportunity. You can't miss this kid, when she's around she pulls focus. She's sociable and mischievous. She's easy going and chilled out. She loves the outdoors, other children and dogs - OMG does she love dogs. She really loves Bisbee but really any dog will do.<br />
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And now she's one.<br />
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How have we only only had 12 months with her and yet how has it been 12 months already?<br />
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We have thankfully recovered from the latest trip to the hospital for concussion - I'm surprised we almost made it to a year before our first trip and are celebrating the big day with a trip to the swimming pool and cake. If all goes to plan.<br />
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We have learnt so much this year but I personally have learnt how much I need Laura. Our team is so dependent on the incredible woman that is my wife. I have always loved her and appreciated her skills but this year alone she had blown my mind with her incredibleness. She has helped me overcome personal challenges, kept us calm and organised and continued to keep our life on track. Annabelle couldn't have asked for a better Mama and I couldn't have got any luckier doing this life thing with her.<br />
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I can not wait to see what the next year holds. Thank you for joining us on the journey so far.....<br />
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<br />Sarah + Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03602905789704757839noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5231302906213240258.post-28694520618952013082019-06-27T23:10:00.000+01:002019-06-27T23:10:17.444+01:00Pride - Questions Answered!Have you heard of 30 days of Pride? <div>
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In case you missed that June is Pride month you will have seen plenty of rainbows appearing all over the place to remind you. From brands avatars going rainbow to shops putting out 'Pride' ranges, companies decorating their windows with Pride decor to employees sporting rainbow lanyards you should have spotted a rainbow or two.</div>
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Well everyday is Pride in our house and we do what we can to to show how proud we are to be part of LGBT community as often as we can. It's a big part of why we share our lives online, we want to show our lives are normal. That love is possible whoever you are. That families are not exclusively for heterosexual couples. That we exist every month not just in Pride month. </div>
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However for Pride month we decided to record a quick video answering the questions being shared on Instagram over this month. </div>
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Check the video out <a href="https://youtu.be/ZR3eKUuNGCc" target="_blank">here</a>. </div>
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Sarah + Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03602905789704757839noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5231302906213240258.post-71619580105350299662019-06-26T21:10:00.001+01:002019-06-26T21:21:09.320+01:00Guest Post: Why Is Dating Harder For LGBT People Today?With our 5th wedding anniversary coming up and June being Pride month, what better time to spread some love! When we a received an email from Jenny at LezBeGay with a solution for single LGBT people we thought it was an amazing idea and that now would be a great time to share it with you.<br />
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<b>Why Is Dating Harder For LGBT People Today?</b><br />
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A 2011 report by the Williams Institute states that gay people make up 1.7 percent of the population. Separate those 1.7 percent down to gender preference, attraction and similar mindsets and what’s left for us gay folk? The pickings are slim as the numbers are not in our favour, with gay people outside of cities having the most challenging time meeting someone. Whilst we don’t have control over percentages of our existence, there are a few things that complicate things even further….<br />
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Go to any gay bar or social function and you’ll either see people standing alone sipping their drinks hoping for someone to come up to them or packs protectively surrounding themselves with their group of friends. What’s the result? You become invisible from contact with people outside your friendship circle.<br />
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I’ve discussed this with my own friends and the majority state that they take a passive approach when it comes to flirting in public and wait to be approached by someone else. Shyness and fear of rejection are the number one reason behind my female friends lack of initiative at introducing themselves to someone they find attractive and interesting. In my experience, this doesn’t appear to be as big an issue in heterosexual circles as straight men are more likely to take the initiative.<br />
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10 years ago this kind of behaviour would have been a problem but not anymore! Today we have texting and other online platforms that allow for hiding behind a screen instead of having in-person communication. We’re okay with our shyness and fear of rejection, we don’t try to get past it anymore because technology allows us to hide; our social skills and flirting abilities have weakened.<br />
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Gone are the days of meeting the love of your life by chance at Starbucks. Nah, today we’re all about Tinder. Good thing we’ve got Tinder you say? Nope. This problem can be applied to all millennials, whether you’re gay or straight.<br />
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Technology has made are lives so much easier, whether it comes down to looking up a new recipe or texting our flatmates to bring back a pack of beer from work. I’m typing this from my smartphone, ironic or what?<br />
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BUT my experience with Tinder and other dating apps shows that millennials have lost the ability to appreciate what’s in front of them because we have so much choice, literally seconds away.<br />
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Everyone who we swipe through is supposed to look like a model, be super successful, like everything we like, and fit the molds we’ve created that no one can ever actually live up to.<br />
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We all expect to have perfect tens for partners even if we aren’t a ten, which no one is, and the quest for this mythical creature ruins our ability to see how amazing the person in front of our screen truly is; we don’t give them the chance to show their quirks in person. This, in my experience, is when a person’s personality shines through, when you let go of prejudices that you may have been fed from a picture and a few lines; you simply let go and interact with the person face-to-face.<br />
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I got sick of swiping so decided to go old school. I wanted lots of dates all in one night, I didn’t want to get ghosted nor did I fancy sticking around if I didn’t like the person. How do you manage that you ask? Speed dating. Speed dating is something that has never really held much appeal in the past. Maybe it’s down to a preconception of it being a grown-up mix of musical chairs and snap. So the trick is to make a good impression, make a connection and make an assessment on the reality of what is in front of you, not a preconceived idea. Despite wanting to speed date, when I did a Google search I noticed that there weren’t any websites dedicated to gay people. This is why I decided to start a website for the LGBT community. If the points above perhaps apply to you, then you can check the site out at <a href="http://www.lezbegay.co.uk/">www.lezbegay.co.uk</a>. We are currently holding events in London but hope to eventually roll out through the rest of the UK.<br />
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I’m still trying to find the woman of my dreams but when I find her at the next speed dating event, I'll be sure to let you know.<br />
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Jenny<br />
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So there you have it! If you're LGBT, single and London based (currently!) check out Jenny's dating site, <a href="http://www.lezbegay.co.uk/">www.lezbegay.co.uk</a> - get dating!<br />
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Sarah + Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03602905789704757839noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5231302906213240258.post-66428261631939228012019-06-24T22:01:00.001+01:002019-06-24T22:01:44.064+01:00Review: Warwick Castle, UK!In the 5 years that we have lived in Birmingham we have driven past signs for Warwick Castle frequently and added it to our to do list. Sadly time has never allowed a visit and then when Annabelle arrived we pushed it down the list thinking it wasn't going to be baby friendly. <div>
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We were wrong!</div>
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On Saturday we were invited to check out everything <a href="https://www.warwick-castle.com/" target="_blank">Warwick Castle</a> had to offer, as a family, including The Falconers Quest - the new birds of prey show for Summer 2019. </div>
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As summer had finally arrived in the UK we decided to head to the castle after Annabelle's nap so that we weren't out in the hot sun all day. We had headed to my parents in Stratford-Upon-Avon so Annabelle could nap there and we were only 15 minutes from the castle. </div>
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It worked perfectly, Annabelle woke up at 1.30pm and we were at the Castle check in at 2pm. With map in hand we headed off to explore. We had taken the baby carrier as we knew that there was going to be walking involved, it ended up being a great decision - although Annabelle was happy to enjoy the grounds when the opportunity allowed. </div>
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We started with the towers and ramparts, it involved 500 steps, most of these were inside the towers so were steep and small - they really built castles for a purpose back in the day :) The views at the top were well worth the work out though. Annabelle was entertained with the climb and we had remembered water so I was able to stay hydrated, so all in all it went well. </div>
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The rampart walk wasn't all about the steps though. Along the route were rooms jam-packed full of displays, one thing Warwick does really well is bring history to life. The displays included life-size models, plenty of pictures and stories, interactive guides and surround sound to make you really feel part of the past. As a history buff I LOVED IT! Thankfully Annabelle was also into it.</div>
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It took us around an hour to complete the walk and after we finished we headed straight to the Kingmaker - a journey through preparations for war with sights, sounds and scenes that would have happened back in 1471. Being inside allowed us to cool down and have some respite from the sun.</div>
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As we finished it was almost 3.30pm, time for the afternoon show of <a href="https://www.warwick-castle.com/the-falconers-quest/" target="_blank">The Falconers Quest</a>. We headed to the riverside arena and took our seats on the grass verge. There was seating available but with Annabelle ready to stretch her legs we decided the grass would give her more space to roam.</div>
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As soon as the show started we didn't have worry about Annabelle wandering, she was mesmerized. We all were. From the beautiful barn owl to the gigantic Bald Eagle, the sprightly harris hawks and the huge condor it was amazing. The trainers had the birds flying low over the crowd and the story being told kept us all engaged. It was the first time we have ever taken Annabelle to anything like this and based on this experience we would definitely do it again. </div>
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To continue the bird theme we headed to the peacock garden to check out the beautiful flowers. What we discovered was numerous peacocks hiding in the bushes and wandering the gardens, we were able to get up close and even get a selfie! It was a lovely experience. </div>
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The walk back to the main castle ground gave us a real perspective of the size of the castle. There were so many places to sit and enjoy a picnic or let children run wild. We strolled past the archery area where people were learning the skill and set up a blanket so Laura and Annabelle could relax while I headed up the Conquers Fortress - the oldest part of the castle. </div>
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The walk up the mound was on an incline but it was made easier with the distraction of signs packed with interesting facts. Warwick was chosen as a strategic castle due to its central location and was visited by plenty of royal family members previously. It's proximity to the spa town at Leamington also helped. Or so I found out! At the top the reconstruction is impressive and is another castle. </div>
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After making it back to my girls we finished the trip at the Time Tower. This for me was another highlight. Taking you back to the very start of the castle an walking through the ages you got to meet people who had played a part in the history. From battles to restoration, from family relations to family squabbles you get it all. I particularly liked the talking pictures that really bought it to life. </div>
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With the ground closing at 5pm we made our way out towards our car with smiles on our faces and so much to talk about. There were still things we wanted to see so we will be back. We may even looking into doing the overnight stay there - it sounds like quite the experience! </div>
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As I say we were wrong about how family friendly the castle was - it is the perfect place to take kids of any age. There are things for every age and so much to do that you can really make your own day. I loved the history, I loved the way the history was bought to life, I loved the effort that Warwick Castle put into everything and couldn't recommended it enough as a day out. </div>
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We'd like to thank Warwick Castle for the gift of tickets, the review is entirely our own words and thoughts. </div>
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Have you been? What did you think?</div>
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Sarah + Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03602905789704757839noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5231302906213240258.post-34155779503771289902019-06-19T23:10:00.002+01:002019-06-19T23:10:37.956+01:00Review: Fake Festival - Birmingham!When we were invited to a Fake Festivals as part of a birthday event for a friend we thought she was kidding. It is fair to say that we were completely unaware that Fake Festivals were a BIG thing across the UK.<br />
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Just to clarify Fake Festivals are not fake events they are festivals with acts that are tribute/fake versions of bands/artists. Check out the details <a href="https://www.fakefestivals.co.uk/" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
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When we visited the day Fake Festival in Birmingham, held at Kings Heath Park - 10 mins from our home - we were lucky enough to see:<br />
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<li>Flash as Queen</li>
<li>Vicky Jackson as Pink</li>
<li>New2 as U2</li>
<li>The Police Force as The Police</li>
<li>Stereotonics as Stereophonics</li>
<li>The Stones as The Rollings Stones</li>
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We arrived mid way through The Stones and they were brilliant. The crowd was gathered in a large tent with food vans arranged outside. Thankfully the tent was big enough to accommodate the crowd as the weather was temperamental and we avoid a downpour that started a few minutes after our arrival. </div>
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The festival was promoted as family friendly so we took Annabelle with us. Complete with headphones and maraca our little lady danced along and seemed happy to be part of the crowd.</div>
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After watching Stereotonics it was then Annabelle's bedtime so we decided to head home as we were so close. We had taken the baby carrier in case we wanted to stay but with the weather, the noise and the 45 minute breaks between acts we thought it was better that she slept in the cot. </div>
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Not before we sampled the pie, mash and mushy pea food truck. They had an AMAZING pulled pork and stuffing pie - well worth a try if you ever see it on a menu!</div>
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Thankfully Annabelle's Nanny was able to babysit in the evening so Laura and I could head back to the festival and meet up with our friend for the evening performances. By this time the weather had created a mud pit outside but inside the tent was still dry. </div>
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We aren't U2 fans so weren't sad to miss the act and were glad to be back for Vicky - she was great as Pink. With a set list that covered old and new music the crowd was singing from start to finish. It was nice to remember just how many great songs Pink has had over the years.</div>
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Being back on our own made it feel like a date night. Seeing the acts perform made it memorable and singing the songs at full volume made for a fun night. The atmosphere was brilliant and we would definitely recommended the experience. We paid £35 per ticket which seemed like good value for the number of performances we saw. </div>
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Fake Festivals even hold a 3 day festival bringing together plenty of well known acts with camping offered on site. Sadly it is sold out for this summer but it's a good one to note for the future!</div>
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Have you ever been to a Fake Festival?</div>
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Sarah + Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03602905789704757839noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5231302906213240258.post-36601428998562748922019-06-03T12:31:00.001+01:002019-06-03T12:31:43.577+01:00Review: LGBT Wedding Gift Ideas!With summer approaching and wedding season almost upon us we thought we would do a quick wrap up of some of the favourite gifts we have spotted for LGBT weddings.<br />
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Our first stop has recently become <a href="https://www.prezzybox.com/" target="_blank">Prezzy Box</a>.<br />
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We were recently gifted this personalised print to celebrate 10 years together but we would have loved to have received it as a wedding gift. You simply pick the 'people' from a number of designs and then add a quote. And it's only £22 - you can find it <a href="https://www.prezzybox.com/personalised-illustrated-couple-print.aspx" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
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We also love this scrabble board - we've seen a few friends with these!<br />
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And these cute tins of tea that you personalise, who doesn't love fancy tea right now?!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqG5GtL3aLJWAmiXWlR6R_RILji3sGE9OW9TxMCupch_RC0WATJHu00Waj5xd8RiCt10i1mRqeAy1XzuNjMC0L8_pWc9LADaDCruS9Tl7q-VexsSVpY9iB-dsfqWCSWn9t0t4mNimTcCQ/s1600/tea.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1092" data-original-width="1251" height="558" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqG5GtL3aLJWAmiXWlR6R_RILji3sGE9OW9TxMCupch_RC0WATJHu00Waj5xd8RiCt10i1mRqeAy1XzuNjMC0L8_pWc9LADaDCruS9Tl7q-VexsSVpY9iB-dsfqWCSWn9t0t4mNimTcCQ/s640/tea.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Or if you want to go with a curve ball for your cheese lover friends/family then Selfridges are now offering Dziugas cheese. We tried the 48 and 60 month versions and as cheese lovers WOW - just WOW! The taste is so strong, powerful and delicious. The cheese is lactose free and you can tell the quality in every piece. It is rich, with bite that's a bit spicy. We enjoyed it on our cheeseboard, it would definitely work with berries on a summer days! This is not any regular cheese! It's a cheese lovers must try.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2PUWIpKguQTxBdlBGBdvdhzIkPNwoQKN34OfYTq1KQ5t4pOYFWk3jhgi0b6FwwQHJcabL2OJjvM-rOFAnPuQopiHBIcUvMZicIjs5cvXL-BMTP7dFxwtrsUWGB8MLiK-3I-St6rZrrUo/s1600/IMG-20190603-WA0005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2PUWIpKguQTxBdlBGBdvdhzIkPNwoQKN34OfYTq1KQ5t4pOYFWk3jhgi0b6FwwQHJcabL2OJjvM-rOFAnPuQopiHBIcUvMZicIjs5cvXL-BMTP7dFxwtrsUWGB8MLiK-3I-St6rZrrUo/s640/IMG-20190603-WA0005.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuUfiJ89Ows_cXwZTzYwYkiYL-TI5IDPR-pSrQnC39hhWb9DTNXqZTy9myIVvbvZfQgp9Qt7i6Y3R-4-O7nBNVQaRPqo6FbkGN_P6YxyRiR-WLJqHL10k1TwimcpDgpzd0EAUXMvJJH7E/s1600/cheese.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="299" data-original-width="335" height="285" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuUfiJ89Ows_cXwZTzYwYkiYL-TI5IDPR-pSrQnC39hhWb9DTNXqZTy9myIVvbvZfQgp9Qt7i6Y3R-4-O7nBNVQaRPqo6FbkGN_P6YxyRiR-WLJqHL10k1TwimcpDgpzd0EAUXMvJJH7E/s320/cheese.PNG" width="320" /></a></div>
<a href="https://www.notonthehighstreet.com/" target="_blank">Not On The High Street</a> have also improved their offering of LGBT friendly gifts, or perfect gifts for any couple.<br />
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We spotted this gift where you can get a personalised print of the wedding venue - if the venue itself was memorable. We went to Laura's cousins recently in a stunning country house that this worked perfectly for!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVuDCl8qJBwhSwisY7HoBLn2SRoe2uvr5gMDeOWZAKkw217bR_RQxf0S7dS5grCsUa0dxEkcXPmE3wjoCTK5vMLu0kfyiQUj3Z_cXq4Yg5MxhenJdEDA3SzZsPN9lCUTlJaqinz8iRR50/s1600/venue.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="738" data-original-width="904" height="522" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVuDCl8qJBwhSwisY7HoBLn2SRoe2uvr5gMDeOWZAKkw217bR_RQxf0S7dS5grCsUa0dxEkcXPmE3wjoCTK5vMLu0kfyiQUj3Z_cXq4Yg5MxhenJdEDA3SzZsPN9lCUTlJaqinz8iRR50/s640/venue.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Or they do a cute cut our poster you can find <a href="https://www.notonthehighstreet.com/theportlandco/product/personalised-mr-mr-civil-wedding-papercut" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRWAFxzukiDs-3G8hVoroFzf8I3u_0P2Bnhyphenhyphenj9SS5j-dUv4W7CtEHSYt9TGOUunNUHZU9cT7UtoHbHs9DcWATHE8PmB6wvKbJI6NRfgF966dJmr_8eiAHX4uJZhbZEfHaw-9fGNtVA1-c/s1600/original_personalised-mr-mr-civil-wedding-papercut.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="1024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRWAFxzukiDs-3G8hVoroFzf8I3u_0P2Bnhyphenhyphenj9SS5j-dUv4W7CtEHSYt9TGOUunNUHZU9cT7UtoHbHs9DcWATHE8PmB6wvKbJI6NRfgF966dJmr_8eiAHX4uJZhbZEfHaw-9fGNtVA1-c/s320/original_personalised-mr-mr-civil-wedding-papercut.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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They also do some really cute cards:<br />
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We also love <a href="https://www.zazzle.co.uk/gay+wedding+gifts" target="_blank">Zazzle</a> for unique ideas for gifts and for wedding favours / invites / save the dates etc</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmrhF_ZU_EtiEFivlKfg2iEiWQSI6QKYMKjNpgXmm9Wr9Uh-XGT993rNsZJkUa4a5wIidl9W8MCpgyqOBp2CUYiSCvbe7wy6H_3UQYsFjk2qZ2EzvBspgJ05FIftzAn0Jd04uU7jFeh-k/s1600/mugs.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="406" data-original-width="676" height="192" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmrhF_ZU_EtiEFivlKfg2iEiWQSI6QKYMKjNpgXmm9Wr9Uh-XGT993rNsZJkUa4a5wIidl9W8MCpgyqOBp2CUYiSCvbe7wy6H_3UQYsFjk2qZ2EzvBspgJ05FIftzAn0Jd04uU7jFeh-k/s320/mugs.PNG" width="320" /></a></div>
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And finally Etsy....we have got lost down plenty of Etsy holes and learnt a few lessons about checking how soon delivery will be. We aren't exactly the most organised couple so 4 weeks delivery is never going to work for us. But for those of with time this is the Etsy filter we usually start with: <a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/market/lesbian_wedding_gift">https://www.etsy.com/uk/market/lesbian_wedding_gift</a><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfOWAz3YSFBJCVoyOk0Jxd-lLEIt-EW-3ebnPiVsNpX5yRM5oqN4Z0BxgxBOkJqNY4bxP49zkq38dwQ2jmI9druiQfccjt94TI7xRsynUx0VDo2F7rbn_S3r9wLydc7Hk42U8s1dEs4qw/s1600/il_794xN.1009181540_b4wr.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="593" data-original-width="794" height="476" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfOWAz3YSFBJCVoyOk0Jxd-lLEIt-EW-3ebnPiVsNpX5yRM5oqN4Z0BxgxBOkJqNY4bxP49zkq38dwQ2jmI9druiQfccjt94TI7xRsynUx0VDo2F7rbn_S3r9wLydc7Hk42U8s1dEs4qw/s640/il_794xN.1009181540_b4wr.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">So cute</td></tr>
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Have you got any gift shops that are a must to check out?</div>
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Disclaimer: We were gifted the personalised print and tea from PrezzyBox and the cheese from Dziugas in return from inclusion in this post. All opinions are our own!</div>
Sarah + Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03602905789704757839noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5231302906213240258.post-74658177996760776862019-05-31T22:50:00.000+01:002019-05-31T22:50:11.847+01:00Baby Blogging - My First Month Back At Work After A Baby!Where do I start this post.....<br />
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I started it yesterday having just run full out across London Euston train station to jump on a 5.43pm train that arrived back in Birmingham at 7.03pm. I hoped to jump on a local train and be home some time before 7.45pm. Annabelle's bedtime is 7pm. The sprint wasn't just for the train, the sprint was to have some vague hope of seeing Annabelle's face before bed. Even if it is just for a hug. I made it, just.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRyZX8UjZJgY4SujtEjt1ESjrZZbGXOXZthJSBj67h9m7w0_EXxCpTQoHxvs9Ga4NsPiJYivUNPBTTHeH1h7BX_obgJheQbE58ckX6uuaQ-7AmIru8vx7_NTRZSWctVVOMVqB9mt-7-bM/s1600/20190531_073851.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRyZX8UjZJgY4SujtEjt1ESjrZZbGXOXZthJSBj67h9m7w0_EXxCpTQoHxvs9Ga4NsPiJYivUNPBTTHeH1h7BX_obgJheQbE58ckX6uuaQ-7AmIru8vx7_NTRZSWctVVOMVqB9mt-7-bM/s640/20190531_073851.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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I saw Annabelle at 6.17am. I didn't think I would see her at all today but due to teething the poor baby woke up at 4.15am - and was settled by Laura - then again at 5 something am and then 6.17am. At that point I abandoned the pumping I had been doing downstairs and raced up to sweep her into my arms and give her breakfast straight from the source.<br />
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It was 10 mins I didn't allow for in my morning routine but 10 mins I am glad I took. That 10 minute session will get me through the day and console me if I do miss bedtime tonight. </div>
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After feeding was done I raced to throw my bag together, wash out the pumping equipment and get to the station for my 6.47am train. I made it. Just. And without my phone.....although I later discovered Laura had left Annabelle with my Mum to try and catch me to give me my phone - only to arrive as my train was leaving. </div>
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Thankfully not all days start that way. </div>
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In fact most days we are doing a good job with our new routine. Bisbee has no idea what is going on but the rest of us have found a rhythm. I have been back over a month and unlike when I wrote this <a href="https://sarahpluslaura.blogspot.com/2019/04/baby-blogging-end-of-maternity-leave.html" target="_blank">post </a>my emotions have balanced out.<br />
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So here's a quick run through of how life is running currently:</div>
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<b>Monday</b> - if I a lucky I have the day off as I have plenty of annual leave to use OR we are both lucky and there is a bank holiday. I am usually home for bed.</div>
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<b>Tuesday</b> - Annabelle goes to nursery and I usually head to London. Either I drive to the train station for the 6.37am train or Laura drops me and I get the 7.46am train. There is no middle ground. Or I work from home and Laura drops Annabelle at nursery. I try to make it back for bed.</div>
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<b>Wednesday </b>- is usually a lot like a Tuesday. Except I add netball in after putting Annabelle to bed. </div>
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<b>Thursday</b> - my Mum looks after Annabelle and either arrives at 7.30am if I am heading to London or at 8.30am if I am at home. If I am at home I get to feed Annabelle before naps and spend the evening with her. If I have been in London I don't.</div>
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<b>Friday</b> - our favourite day of the working week for so many reasons. My Mum has Annabelle in the morning and Laura finishes at 2pm. I am rarely anywhere but home so get to feed Annabelle for naps and see her in the evening.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiaQ1o4lN0m3LI7vXGE98rK3IPGjeCzhNf2tsvadJokd2Mc_H3-O679w6qKxciMNKXQeG6hN8tnjRaaSFb1w3umOlkzu1p4qDX5fc7OwE7ohJCnCzuZWbrwKRiDddDnrDPISSAc_fpWn4/s1600/20190517_174159.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1565" data-original-width="1600" height="626" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiaQ1o4lN0m3LI7vXGE98rK3IPGjeCzhNf2tsvadJokd2Mc_H3-O679w6qKxciMNKXQeG6hN8tnjRaaSFb1w3umOlkzu1p4qDX5fc7OwE7ohJCnCzuZWbrwKRiDddDnrDPISSAc_fpWn4/s640/20190517_174159.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My crew picking me up on a Friday</td></tr>
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And then we hit the weekend and want to lock the front door and do nothing expect be a family. Reality rarely allows it but we try. We can at least guarantee whatever we do we do it as a family. </div>
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Birmingham Pride was a great event for us. It ticked a lot of boxes that make us happy:</div>
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<li>Family Time</li>
<li>Supporting the LGBT community</li>
<li>A chance to enjoy nice weather</li>
<li>Spending time in our city</li>
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We have always loved Birmingham Pride - well the parade part - we have never got to the event part. The city really puts on a great show. This year we stood in a new location - Carr Street - right by a church that were handing out water and love hear sweets to the parade participants. There was space to stand and a Tesco for everything we had forgot - like water!<br />
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As the parade came down the street Annabelle would stare, intrigued by all the noise and chaos. Bisbee would prepare herself for fuss - she always does well for attention at Prides.</div>
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We just stood there and took it all in. We received occasional hugs from friend we know and photo requests from strangers - a perk of dressing up (Laura enforced :))!<br />
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Life may be busy but at least we are busy together - most of the time!</div>
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Sarah + Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03602905789704757839noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5231302906213240258.post-77061568480863970332019-05-29T21:07:00.000+01:002019-05-29T21:07:43.960+01:00Travel: We've Been Nominated!It's been a busy few weeks and we have so much to tell you about, we'll follow it with posts in the coming weeks. We attended Birmingham Pride, we've been planning an extension to the house, we've been establishing our routine now I've been back at work for over a month and we've been planning our next trip to Scotland in a few weeks.<br />
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Oh and we have been nominated as 'Best LGBT Travel Blog' in the Teletext Holidays and British Travel Awards. We are up against some great competition so being nominated is an honour!<br />
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If you want to check out the other blogs see the roundup <a href="https://www.teletextholidays.co.uk/blog/globetrotting-lgbt-travel-blogs" target="_blank">here</a>. </div>
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If you search 'Travel' in the search bar you will see all our recent travel posts but if you are looking for LGBT travel destinations you can check out this <a href="https://sarahpluslaura.blogspot.com/2018/04/lgbt-travel-europes-top-10-lgbt.html" target="_blank">post</a> on the Top 10 LGBT Friendly Destinations!</div>
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Sarah + Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03602905789704757839noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5231302906213240258.post-1724897515594050282019-05-21T20:17:00.001+01:002019-05-21T20:42:40.670+01:00Theatre Review: Rocky Horror Show<span style="font-size: large;">'Give yourself over to absolute pleasure.'</span><br />
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It's a famous line from the cult classic Richard O'Brien's Rocky Horror Show, and also, it's our one line review of the current show and cast on tour around the UK, directed by Christopher Luscombe, and in Birmingham until Saturday 25th May 2019 at the <a href="https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/the-rocky-horror-show/the-alexandra-theatre-birmingham/" target="_blank">Alexandra Theatre</a>.<br />
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We are HUGE Rocky Horror fans. I have watched the film in costume at an event at least once per year since I was 16 (that's a lot of years, people!) and I had a huge poster of Frank N' Furter, one of the main characters, played in the film by Tim Curry, above my bed in my childhood bedroom. In the 10 years Sarah and I have been together, we have attended these events together, and have dressed up as dozens of characters over the years. It's a big deal to us.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This was my actual poster!</td></tr>
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(There were the times we went to London to watch it on the big screen <a href="https://sarahpluslaura.blogspot.com/2011/10/our-rocky-horror-halloween.html" target="_blank">here</a> and <a href="https://sarahpluslaura.blogspot.com/2013/11/the-third-or-fourth-annual-rocky-horror.html" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
Our first RHPS viewing party at home with Annabelle and meatloaf feet <a href="https://sarahpluslaura.blogspot.com/2018/11/rocky-horror-our-way.html" target="_blank">here</a>.)<br />
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However we have each only seen a theatre production of RHPS once before, both over 12 years ago, so when we were invited to review this production of the Rocky Horror Show, we were intruiged as to what we could expect. How could anyone live up to the characters brought to life on screen by Tim Curry, Richard O'Brien, and Susan Sarandon (among others)?<br />
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We donned our Columbia (Sarah) and Eddie (Laura) costumes and arrived at the Alexandra to a lively, excited and dressed up audience. One of our favourite things about Rocky Horror is how much those who love it, love it. There were characters seated all around us, and there were two older ladies next to us who were Rocky Horror virgins (they hadn't seen it before) and didn't know what to expect. I couldn't think of how to explain what was about to happen on stage to them, so I just said that it was strange and they would love it!<br />
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To try to explain it to any Rocky Horror virgins reading, Brad and his fiancee Janet are clean cut kids who have just gotten engaged, they decide to go see their school science teacher who introduced them. Sadly on their way they get a flat tyre in the middle of nowhere, so visit a nearby castle to use their phone, and end up with, well, a lot more than they bargained for.<br />
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But honestly, the plot isn't what you come to Rocky Horror for. You come for an experience - a funny, shocking, wildly inappropriate one where the audience is part of the show, an experience that you can't get anywhere else; which was indeed delivered by this production.<br />
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From the moment the show started, we were absolutely blown away. The set was really cleverly designed by Hugh Durrant, quite small but effective setting the scenes and transitioning between them. The live band, under the direction of Musical Director George Carter, were hidden at the top of the stage, and did a great job. We absolutely loved the cast, they were very likeable, drew us in immediately, and they each brought their own spin to these classic characters.<br />
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Some of our favourite actors were Duncan James of Blue fame, who played a fantastic Frank - he was the perfect balance of masculine and feminine, attractive to everyone, as that character needs to be, and side note, he is so buff! We also loved 90's boyband A1's Ben Adams as Brad and ex-Strictly Come Dancing star Joanne Clifton as Janet (though their American accents were SO strong, I think purposeful hyperbole, but I kept thinking, do I sound like that??), and Kristian Lavercombe was a hilarious and creepy Riff Raff.<br />
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One character we thought was better than expected was Rocky, played by Callum Evans - in the movie, besides muscly, he doesn't have a lot else to him, but in this theatre production, he was laugh out loud funny, he had much more character to him. Also, Callum is a gymnast, which was a great casting choice as he had the audience 'Oooooh'ing and 'Aahhhh'ing at his incredible gymnastics onstage!<br />
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Finally, it was wonderful to see Brummie Alison Hammond as The Narrator, a role that traditionally gets heckled by the audience to quite a degree - she was so much fun, you could tell she really enjoyed clapping back at the audience yelling out funny things in response to her lines, and once when she accidentally missed her cue and recovered rather hilariously, she had us all in stitches!<br />
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Rocky Horror Show is a unique musical because the audience is encouraged to participate. From getting up to learn to dance to the Time Warp (where I got to speak to the girl next to me, Rocky Horror always helps you make friends!), to audience members yelling out funny lines in between lines from characters, to audience members even bringing props to use during scenes throughout the show, it is an experience unlike any other. What we loved about the show more than the movie was that the actors seemed to pause for some of the better known funny lines, so you got to really laugh at what was being said and not miss anything, where in the movie the scene continues despite the audience participation. Also, the Narrator especially really reacted to the funny lines, which made them even funnier!<br />
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At the end of the Rocky Horror Show, we all got to get up and dance to our favourite songs from the show, which was a wonderful way to end it and celebrate being there.<br />
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As self titled Rocky Horror connoisseurs, we know our stuff - and absolutely recommend that you, whether you're a seasoned party goer or a Rocky Horror virgin, catch this production of the Rocky Horror Show <a href="https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/the-rocky-horror-show/the-alexandra-theatre-birmingham/" target="_blank">in Birmingham at the Alexandra Theatre</a> until Saturday 25th May, or <a href="https://www.rockyhorror.co.uk/tour" target="_blank">on tour around the UK</a> until November 2019.<br />
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Other theatre reviews include:<br />
<a href="https://sarahpluslaura.blogspot.com/2019/04/theatre-review-hair-musical.html" target="_blank">HAIR - The Musical</a><br />
<a href="https://sarahpluslaura.blogspot.com/2013/04/date-night-review-jersey-boys-show-in.html" target="_blank">Jersey Boys</a><br />
<a href="https://sarahpluslaura.blogspot.com/2013/07/date-night-review-mamma-mia.html" target="_blank">Mamma Mia</a><br />
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<br />Sarah + Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03602905789704757839noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5231302906213240258.post-19661162292749703692019-05-13T20:27:00.000+01:002019-05-14T08:40:06.958+01:00Travel: Exploring New York!Our first family trip abroad was to New York in February. We flew from Birmingham, UK to meet Laura's parents in the city that never sleeps and it was AMAZING! Annabelle was just over 7 months old.<br />
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We shared this post earlier in the year on our family <a href="https://sarahpluslaura.blogspot.com/2019/03/family-travel-new-york-must-do-list.html" target="_blank">Must See List</a> but we thought we would share a video we recorded while there.<br />
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The video is <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fe4_XjF9Fec&t=89s" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
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We also shared a post on Essentials of travelling with a baby <a href="https://sarahpluslaura.blogspot.com/2019/03/5-essentials-for-travelling-with-baby.html" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
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Our highlights in New York included:<br />
<ul>
<li>Top of the Rock</li>
<li>Brooklyn Bridge / Dumbo</li>
<li>The High Line</li>
<li>Stardust Diner / Times Square </li>
<li>And tons more!</li>
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And here's a few of our picture highlights, there are some in the video too :)<br />
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<br />Sarah + Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03602905789704757839noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5231302906213240258.post-33548567952860787962019-05-09T21:23:00.001+01:002019-05-09T21:23:17.344+01:00Travel: 8 Reasons To Visit Bergen, Norway!When we visited Oslo in 2017 we had an amazing trip. You can read all about it <a href="https://sarahpluslaura.blogspot.com/2017/12/10-reasons-to-visit-oslo-norway.html" target="_blank">here</a>. From the scenery to the people, from the food to the history Norway has plenty to offer. Having explored the biggest city last time we wanted to try something different this time and headed to the gateway of the fjords - Bergen!<br />
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<b>WE LOVED BERGEN!</b></div>
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Honestly our trip had so many highlights that we highly recommend visiting Bergen. We arrived on Friday evening having flown Birmingham to Amsterdam, Amsterdam to Bergen on KLM (highly recommend this airline unlike Brussels Air). Each flight was just over an hour. We had 3 days exploring the city and flew back Tuesday afternoon. It was a perfect amount of time and even though the weather was changeable we had plenty of time to see everything we wanted.<br />
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Bergen is a UNESCO world heritage city and European city of culture - check out Visit Bergen <a href="https://en.visitbergen.com/" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
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1) <b>Everything is beautiful. </b>The surrounding scenery is spectacular, the houses nestled into the mountains by the port are adorable and the area is so clean and well laid out. When you arrive (depending on the time of year) at the lake in the centre you are greeted with beautiful blossom trees and the largest tulips in every colour. It's like a painting of spring.<br />
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2) <b>It's SO family friendly.</b> There was so many families everywhere we went and with Norway encouraging Dads to take parental leave you were just as likely to see a group of Dads with buggies as you were Mums. We were always acknowledged as Mum's wherever we went and even found an entire LGBT artwork store!<br />
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At the airport there were free buggies to use to move around, there were children's play areas that were free to use (although we are noticing more and more airports doing this now) and when we boarded our bus to the centre there were child seats available. All of these things were amazing as we only travelled with our baby carrier.<br />
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3)<b> Bryggen - </b>the old wharf area of Bergen stands on the port side and is a reminder of the trade significance of the area back as far as the 14th century. The wooden buildings have created passageways in a higgley-piggelty way making it interesting to wander around. Most of the buildings are now shops, cafes or art galleries and worth checking out. We spent over an hour seeing what was on offer before enjoying a snack in a cafe.<br />
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4) <b>The Floibanen Funicular </b>- this railway takes you to the top of Mount Floyen in 6 minutes and is 125 NOK (£12.50) per person for a return. The views all the way up are magnificent and when you reach the top it is breathtaking. From the station there are a number of hikes based on how far you want to go. We walked to a lake that took half an hour for the round trip. We also explored the troll garden, met some goats and checked out the play area. There were also free, and very clean, facilities to use - always a plus when you have been getting in the steps!<br />
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5) <b>Try the food, it's delicious! </b>Norway does love it's meat and fish so it made sense to try what was on offer. With the fish market on the port you can smell and taste the fish as soon as you arrive. The stalls are generous with samples and after tasting a variety including whale and the freshest salmon we'd ever had we had to make choices to take back to our Airbnb.<br />
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At dinner we tried reindeer sausage that was delicious - very meaty! Fish cakes that looked like hockey pucks but were delicious and meatballs the size of our hands. Everything we got was so fresh, everywhere we went.<br />
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We also did the Norwegian thing of having a daily hotdog and ate way too many bollen (bread products) of different types - with cinnamon, with icing, with coconut, with icing and cinnamon, with custard, with custard and cinnamon - okay you get the idea. They were so good we couldn't resist!<br />
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6) <b>Take a fjord tour.</b> We did a day tour on Hardangerfjord to Rosendal. It involved taking a 2 hour cruise through majestic mountains, past fjord-side villages and arriving at the picturesque Rosendal town, where we spent 3 and 1/2 hours. From the time you dock until the time you leave it's like stepping into a fairy-tale. Going in May the lambs were springing around, the flowers were blooming and the river gushed from the snow topped mountains. We followed one of those rivers to an amazing waterfall and loved every step.<br />
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7) <b>The streets. </b>There aren't many cities where it's fun to get lost, but Bergen is somewhere getting lost means finding new things. The back streets run up the mountain and you pop up overlooking roofs the higher you go. There is no right or wrong way to turn as every street has a different bar, restaurant, cafe or art gallery to check out.<br />
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8) <b>The art work</b>. It's everywhere. If you like sculptures you wouldn't be disappointed, they appear everywhere. If you like graffiti there is plenty to check out. If you like paintings you could spend all day enjoying local artists work and never get bored and if you like trolls - well they are everywhere!<br />
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We will definitely be heading back to Norway!</div>
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Sarah + Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03602905789704757839noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5231302906213240258.post-42196101724145924402019-05-02T17:55:00.001+01:002019-05-02T17:55:35.657+01:00Baby Blogging: Back To Work!Our new normal is up and running. I am well and truly back to work and our routine is in place. The only thing we are struggling with is having enough hours in a day, what's new eh?!<br />
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As you may have seen I went back to work in April and my first week was not as expected, details are <a href="https://sarahpluslaura.blogspot.com/2019/04/baby-blogging-end-of-maternity-leave.html" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
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Since that first week I have settled into a routine of working from home or heading to London, Manchester and wherever my team require me. It feels weird. It feels like I never left. I have found my rhythm quicker than I expected. There is still plenty to catch up on but it's coming back to me.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Making our time together count</td></tr>
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What I have found surprising is the speed of which my maternity cover (contracted for a year June - June) has disappeared. Within 3 days everything was being escalated back to me and other than a few calls the handover I expected has never come. I have been a little taken back by that as it has meant that I have had a lot of groundwork to do myself. Ah well.<br />
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Being busy at work has actually been great. I have very little downtime to wonder about Annabelle. In the moments that I do, and she's at nursery, I log on and am able to reassure myself that she is okay. I miss her though. That phrase about your heart being in two places at once after you have a baby is true. It's strange but I all I really want to do is hug her, all day, everyday. I know in reality that hug is with a wriggly little girl who can't wait to get down to play with toys or anything else in the room, but it's a nice thought.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">That smile!</td></tr>
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I console myself with the fact that if I was with her I would be playing with her just like the people taking care of her. I do nothing special in that sense so I know she's not missing out.<br />
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In fact my main challenge is not the work/life balance right now it's getting enough time with Annabelle while she is awake. After nursery she is tired, she will either come home and nap - usually 4.15 - 5pm or she will be grisly until bed making it hard to really spend time with her. The nap works well if it happens on time as I finish work and join Annabelle and Laura at 5.30pm.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Morning crew</td></tr>
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BUT life isn't always that easy and doesn't always go to plan.<br />
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My trains often run delayed from London and instead of a 6pm arrival, I get in at 6.10pm. No biggy except my connecting train is at 6.10 or 6.25. If I get the 6.10 I am at our local station by 6.30 and home by 6.45 and half an hour with Annabelle. If I get the 6.25, I get in at 6.45 and home at 7. I literally just get to feed Annabelle and we have no time together.<br />
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Or, in the case of last night, Annabelle fights her nap until 5pm, then falls asleep until 6pm only for me to leave for netball at 6.30pm and return to put her to bed. Not ideal knowing I would be in London today and as usual my train is running 10 mins delayed.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sneaking in a nap</td></tr>
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Our girl loves her routine and her bed and while they are both great things it does leave very, very limited time for me to see her. That is hard, really hard.<br />
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When I am working from home I try to spend every minute with her until she leaves for nursery and I take a short lunch so I can grab some time with her as soon as she gets in. I try to make her laugh, get her to smile, get her to know that even though our time together is now so short it's good time. That I love her and that her happiness is my priority. I just hope she doesn't miss me like I miss her.<br />
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Nursery is doing what we hoped. Annabelle is now chatty, vocal and more confident. There are different numbers of children each day and they have different activities to do. Annabelle's favourite is being outside in the garden. Her eating has improved and while their are some tears on drop-off they are over quickly (Laura is the hero that handles that). She now takes her bottle and has two naps - all signs that she is comfortable there.<br />
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And my parents looking after her is going really well. Laura and I both look forward to Thursday's. While we enjoy checking in via video-link at nursery it's not the same as seeing Annabelle's smiley face in pictures or hearing her giggle in videos. I still wish it was me with her but if not Laura and I then my Mum's the next best thing.<br />
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Laura in the meantime continues her relentless hard work. Dropping off and picking up Annabelle. Making sure Annabelle's food is prepped, that she has a change of clothes. She entertains Annabelle until I get back, while doing what she can in the house. When we do get Annabelle to bed and I sit down it's usually 8pm. We have some time checking phones, some time planning the next day and watch a show before falling into bed.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Off to nursery</td></tr>
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<br />Any tips on making more of the day? Where do you find your extra time? </div>
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Sarah + Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03602905789704757839noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5231302906213240258.post-1285411107765807312019-04-30T17:19:00.001+01:002019-04-30T17:25:27.213+01:00Theatre Review: Hair The MusicalWe were lucky enough to be invited* to watch the musical Hair last night, which is touring the UK for its 50th Anniversary after winning the 2018 WhatsOnStage Award. We saw the show at our favourite theatre in Birmingham, <a href="https://www.atgtickets.com/" target="_blank">The Alexandra</a>, where the show is playing until Saturday the 4th May 2019 (so <a href="https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/hair-the-musical/the-alexandra-theatre-birmingham/" target="_blank">get your tickets</a> quickly if you are in the area!).<br />
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As a huge fan of the movie version of Hair (since I was around 16!) I was so excited to finally see the stage production. The musical follows a group of politically (and sexually) active hippies in New York City, leading a Bohemian lifestyle, when one of them, Claude, gets drafted to serve in the Vietnam war. He then has to decide if he is going to dodge the draft as it isn't what he believes in, or serve his country in a war he doesn't agree with.<br />
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From the moment we sat down in the theatre, we were transported to 1967, with the music and backdrop of the hippie camp. It was truly an immersive experience - we felt throughout the first half that we had been thrown into the '60s, being introduced to the characters and learning about their stories. The psychedelic music, the fast pace at which scenes moved, and references to drugs taken made us feel, well honestly, like we were having some sort of trip ourselves!<br />
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We thought it was really interesting how they brought the subject matter up to date during the introduction by playing clips from President Trump's rallies and speeches - it really made us think about how history repeats itself and how relevant many of the issues tackled in Hair are relevant today.<br />
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I think I came at a slight disadvantage having seen and memorised so much of the film version of Hair, as it turns out that it's actually quite different from the show. For instance, in the musical, Claude is part of the band of hippies who is rebelling against his parents to live the 'free love' lifestyle. This is stark contrast to the film, where Claude arrives in New York City as a clean cut kid ready to enlist in the military. Also, one of the main characters plays a completely different role - so I think if I'd realised before or read up on the differences between the versions, I would have been able to just 'go with it' a little more. My fault! Despite this, I still found the show very enjoyable.<br />
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The second half of the show ramped it up a notch, which we didn't realise was possible, as it included a very detailed and intense hallucination Claude had on the night he had to decide whether to enlist. Possibly some of the show is slightly confusing at first watch, but the show quickly answered our questions and we were entranced. The hallucination scene was so colourful, so strange, so out there. I won't spoil the ending, but I've never seen a finale like it!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXMBERiqLTlQfSCQWOHH05tnD4kzvx_5_PN24HtFjMnVxR2GbhGcGyrXAW74NQK5NiHvbzzLDLo8XQ6muXREOY2SlwVW4oCokfo_-Fpb8yIYX8bLUozSaAp4Szq0bXL81o0ClEFox0E2Y/s1600/Jake+Quickenden+%2528Berger%2529+%2526+The+Cast+of+Hair+The+Musical+-+UK+Tour+-+Photos+By+Johan+Persson+%252800101%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXMBERiqLTlQfSCQWOHH05tnD4kzvx_5_PN24HtFjMnVxR2GbhGcGyrXAW74NQK5NiHvbzzLDLo8XQ6muXREOY2SlwVW4oCokfo_-Fpb8yIYX8bLUozSaAp4Szq0bXL81o0ClEFox0E2Y/s640/Jake+Quickenden+%2528Berger%2529+%2526+The+Cast+of+Hair+The+Musical+-+UK+Tour+-+Photos+By+Johan+Persson+%252800101%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jake Quickenden as Berger was really likeable, he captured the character very well!</td></tr>
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Our favourite thing about the show was its cast. The singing was absolutely unreal. There were two former X Factor stars (Jake Quickenden, who plays 'Berger' and Marcus Collins, who plays 'Hud') who were great, and our favourites were Daisy Wood Davis (Hollyoaks) who plays 'Sheila', Natalie Green, who plays 'Cassie', and Aiesha Pease, who plays 'Dionne'. What vocal talents! Honestly, the show is worth seeing for the songs and singing alone.<br />
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Overall, this production of Hair is quite an experience. It is immersive, all encompassing, and quite strange, with a very talented cast and plenty of amazing and funny songs.<br />
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Hair The Musical is in Birmingham at the moment, as previously mentioned, and then will be continuing on its UK tour until August this year. Take a look at their site (<a href="https://www.hair50.com/" target="_blank">HERE</a>) for a full list of dates and links to where you can purchase tickets.<br />
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*We were gifted tickets to see Hair the Musical, however all opinions are our own.<br />
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<br />Sarah + Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03602905789704757839noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5231302906213240258.post-85793185391157036552019-04-25T08:23:00.001+01:002019-04-25T08:23:23.546+01:00Baby Blogging - Breastfeeding (an almost) 10 Month Old - The Truth!If you ever attended a prenatal NCT or NHS (or equivalent in your part of the world) you were probably told 'breast is best' and that you should breastfeed as long as possible. We were told in our class that the worldwide average was 3 years!<br />
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In reality breastfeeding isn't possible or practical for many people. I have been fortunate that Annabelle latched instantly and hasn't stopped, and thankfully neither has my milk. I think thankfully!<br />
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I shared this post back when Annabelle was first born on what I wished I'd known about breastfeeding, click <a href="https://sarahpluslaura.blogspot.com/2018/07/baby-blogging-breastfeeding.html" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
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And this post on my continued journey - the positives and negatives, click <a href="https://sarahpluslaura.blogspot.com/2018/09/baby-blogging-breastfeeding-truth.html" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
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Anyway that brings us to now. Annabelle is about to turn 10 months and somehow we are still breastfeeding. I say we as it is a joint effort. Unless I am on a train first thing I always breastfeed Annabelle before she heads to nursery or my Mums. I will do whatever it takes to be home for bed time so I can do the last feed and in between, well good olde expressed milk does the job.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih3_BLmdaMA1Sm3tqNi4hfO3kVIbW_RKbEQ7SAcJ2KYeHywj4H25tKkXx1tNeiIXo6stDBkejqthY9wiNcO5W1AUCNTz8XP_L0Qs5tuna4yF7_xsC3CgVofCSZgyK6e5cnO4bClxtJ41g/s1600/hugs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih3_BLmdaMA1Sm3tqNi4hfO3kVIbW_RKbEQ7SAcJ2KYeHywj4H25tKkXx1tNeiIXo6stDBkejqthY9wiNcO5W1AUCNTz8XP_L0Qs5tuna4yF7_xsC3CgVofCSZgyK6e5cnO4bClxtJ41g/s640/hugs.jpg" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">These hugs are the best</td></tr>
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One interesting discovery is that Annabelle is not a fan of drinking her milk at nursery, they struggle to get her to have 2oz's. We think it's that she's not 100% comfortable there yet as she drinks it when my Mum is feeding her. Thankfully she LOVES food and eats the meals and snacks they provide so isn't going hungry. Laura then feeds her a bottle when she gets home, and she drinks the whole thing!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4Xj17zQ5U3n0nQg5z2zws92W3J0gfHNqoASsR3f_3suJ3HB_LDM20Cv2iacfcCqXcd8YsGVyNUVoCMBv1_cn_uRleoXN4hZnnoGRbfpv7-_ilmjKI_ncWmWV4u-QD0zyGBPshswItNvA/s1600/mama.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="996" data-original-width="729" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4Xj17zQ5U3n0nQg5z2zws92W3J0gfHNqoASsR3f_3suJ3HB_LDM20Cv2iacfcCqXcd8YsGVyNUVoCMBv1_cn_uRleoXN4hZnnoGRbfpv7-_ilmjKI_ncWmWV4u-QD0zyGBPshswItNvA/s320/mama.jpg" width="234" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mama the hero</td></tr>
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I was thinking the other night, during one particularly long evening feed, that there are definite pros and cons to breastfeeding this long and here's my thoughts:<br />
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Pro's:<br />
<ul>
<li>It's convenient</li>
<li>It allows Annabelle and I to have some time, just us</li>
<li>It's comforting for her and a relief for me</li>
<li>It nutritious</li>
<li>It's free</li>
<li>It's a great time to relax and be present</li>
</ul>
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Con's:<br />
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<ul>
<li>When I am away from Annabelle I have to set up a production to be able to pump every 4 hours (think sterilizer, bottle parts, pump, container for milk, cool bag and to carry that stuff requires it own bag - it's a lot)</li>
</ul>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFU5gNBNLo7IQuZD7YW-dNzG-ykHgSFQW-B4l91EPf5PbV7CoK6A5HDR689ZHevzKEA5dlPdeg6GUTX74j8skfBoL9vgSd_b-g4TTjftC1CHKfjaDK_giU_Ot05Oz7ToC76aG0J0IjK-w/s1600/well.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFU5gNBNLo7IQuZD7YW-dNzG-ykHgSFQW-B4l91EPf5PbV7CoK6A5HDR689ZHevzKEA5dlPdeg6GUTX74j8skfBoL9vgSd_b-g4TTjftC1CHKfjaDK_giU_Ot05Oz7ToC76aG0J0IjK-w/s400/well.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The wellness room/cupboard at work where I go to pump</td></tr>
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<ul>
<li>Not pumping is not an option (see previous posts but it is AGONY)</li>
<li>Less feeds mean longer feeds, where we used to be done in 15 minutes it can now be 30 mins and no position is comfortable for that long, especially with a wriggly baby - plus relaxation turns to creating to-do lists and thinking about all the stuff you could be doing</li>
<li>Annabelle is now big enough, and capable enough, of wriggling free, sitting up, grabbing my arm, hair, belly and it hurts, her trying to get my boob from all angles hurts!</li>
<li>Teeth - nuff said - Annabelle has 8 and knows how to use them!</li>
</ul>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdUN9hzyuZ0LRg5IVc7M6-tc2_PZEhRCcPPJJEpd2MtN-9l4s-SD_Kd9X-Gx2k2W69_m8ZEwaIpB9ol8KfbLUJ24Y6N0RGdVCENVlUbRxisRw5Q4JWYCwGEiflVhFOUV9HJekYEvGhKQw/s1600/teeth.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1122" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdUN9hzyuZ0LRg5IVc7M6-tc2_PZEhRCcPPJJEpd2MtN-9l4s-SD_Kd9X-Gx2k2W69_m8ZEwaIpB9ol8KfbLUJ24Y6N0RGdVCENVlUbRxisRw5Q4JWYCwGEiflVhFOUV9HJekYEvGhKQw/s640/teeth.jpg" width="448" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">She may look charming!</td></tr>
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<ul>
<li>It can get lonely, that's weird to say but sometimes when things are going on elsewhere - like friends are over and chatting downstairs, or a family gathering is happening where you can hear laughter. I am sat in a quiet room with Annabelle, who in most cases is dozy so I don't want to chat to her and wake her up, on my own with nothing to do but listen to what I am not a part of</li>
</ul>
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Although I can list out cons, easily I'm afraid to admit, I wouldn't change the fact that we have made it this far, I'm proud of us! I thought we would quit it at 6 months, definitely be over it by 9 months, and going back to work while breastfeeding seemed absurd - and it is! - but we are pushing through and making it work. So as I write this I am thinking we might stop at 12 months - that's my thought for now anyway :D</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhIwmwpYnO-sVH2WVI8WfM-W70_ALAqM6LWX2wrWJZ4nXrSwVmuK49e1zNX5-00TdOINcgdxiYgH_71kyNn6F7ZMCFo5fjX0t1ijZnh2zqi1zUX63ZscJIY8Gn0dERtiHuA91_GadSvoc/s1600/love.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhIwmwpYnO-sVH2WVI8WfM-W70_ALAqM6LWX2wrWJZ4nXrSwVmuK49e1zNX5-00TdOINcgdxiYgH_71kyNn6F7ZMCFo5fjX0t1ijZnh2zqi1zUX63ZscJIY8Gn0dERtiHuA91_GadSvoc/s640/love.jpg" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We got this!</td></tr>
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<br />Sarah + Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03602905789704757839noreply@blogger.com1