CHILDREN: 37 Ways to Prepare your Child for Starting School

Starting Primary School is such a big milestone for both child and parents, but how is it best to prepare? I think a lot of us would instantly assume that supporting our child with phonics, writing words/numbers, reading and all things academic is the best way and although these can be important there are a whole host of other skills that are really important to learn prior to starting school.

PARENTHOOD: The Pros and Cons of a 2 Year Age Gap

This post is inspired by the lovely Kerry Conway, as she wrote a similar post all about the pros and cons of a three year age gap on her blog last year. It really got me thinking about the age gap we have between Isabella and Poppy - was it the 'right' age gap for our family and what are the challenges that come along with having a two year gap. I know it's not as easy as saying 'I want a two year age gap' and that actually coming to fruition; conceiving a baby is a journey in itself, but a lot of parents do have a desire to have a certain age gap between children. Looking back I don't think we had a certain age gap in mind and to be honest when I was pregnant with Isabella I hadn't really thought about the fact that it would be the start of our family. We were the first of our friends to have children and at 25 I was on the younger end of the scale these days, but what I hadn't considered is that if we wanted to have children relatively close together then I would be having our second child also pretty young. If that makes any sense?

MOTHERHOOD: Dear Isabella, I cannot believe the day is almost here...

Dear Isabella, 

I honestly can't believe that we are already almost there; it's nearly time for you to start school. Simply writing that down makes my heart skip a beat, partially in excitement but to be honest mostly in heartbreak. Four years ago you made me a mummy. You made all my dreams come true and threw me into a world that I feel so honoured to be part of...parenthood. Those first two years when it was just you and me will forever be some of my most special years, as I navigated my way through first time parenthood, learning so many lessons along the way and having my life filled with more love than I could ever imagine. Then your little sister, Poppy, came along and we all adapted to the inevitable changes that come when there are two children. Being able to watch your bond together grow over the past two years has been incredible; you're so close and Poppy learns from you all the time. You always say that I teach you and you teach Poppy, which couldn't be more right. 

PREGNANCY: How to Survive the Summer Heat when Pregnant

The summer. It is hot, sweaty and intense at times; some people love it, others aren't so sure. I'll admit I'm a 'not so sure' person; I'll spend the cooler/rainy days wishing for some sunshine, only for it to arrive then get all hot and bothered. This was me before pregnancy and is certainly me during pregnancy. It is the middle of July and I am 28 weeks pregnant, so my bump is getting bigger by the day and therefore my tolerance levels of heat are diminishing. Although I do have to say that I am feeling extremely grateful that so far this summer has been nothing compared to the incredibly intense heatwave we have in the UK last year. There have been quite a few things I've been doing to try and keep cool, calm and collected during the hotter days of summer, so I thought I'd share them in case you're also pregnant during those hot months.

PREGNANCY #3: Let's Talk About...Expecting a Baby Boy After Two Girls

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From the moment we found out we were having a baby boy, after two girls, I began to imagine what life will be life. I know nothing about raising boys, despite knowing that every child is different, he idea of having a boy does intimidate me to be honest. we couldn't be more excited about expecting a boy and personally I'm finding the unknown very exciting. 

PARENTHOOD: Thoughtful Gifting for New Parents with The Baby Hamper Company

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When it comes to celebrating the birth of a new little arrival, whether that be your own, a family member or friends, the love, happiness and pure joy in that moment is undeniable. The (sometimes seemingly never ending) countdown to the due date has everyone on the edge waiting for the good news and when the announcement of a safe arrival happens it really is such an exciting and emotional moment. Celebrating that moment with the happy new parents can come in many different forms, with a lot of us choosing to pick their new arrival a special gift. The Baby Hamper Company was set up by Chloe and Christine, an inspiring Mum and Granny duo who wanted to offer unique gifts that new parents really wanted.