A pocket of my life

What a fantastic family day out! We recently took a trip to Legoland in Windsor and had an amazing time from rides to water fun and all in between. We didnt go with a game plan but just took the day as it came which I think was a mistake, I wish I had done more research into the park but we still had fun no matter what. Pros of Legoland The variety of rides, attractions and food outlets was great, all the rides were themed perfectly and it really did make it easier to navigate. The legoland app was brilliant, it kept us up to date with queue times on the rides and also had a handy map with directions to rides when needed. The park was clean and tidy, the staff were friendly. The summer holiday event was great and there seemed to be lots to do and it was free to join. The photo pass was great, we paid £30 for all the photos/videos taken whilst on rides. Cons of Legoland The cost of parking is crazy, £15 for normal or £18 for priority parking is just mad. The lack of seating areas for ea...

We did it! Today me and Lilly took part in the Pretty Muddy 5k event for cancer research, this is a super important chairty for our family as Liam lost his Dad back in 2021 to lung cancer. This is the third year that we have taken part in the race for lfe but the first muddy one that we have done. I was honestly a little nervous for this, its the unknown that make me other think but I would do this again in a heartbeat and Lils has said the same. The obstacles are fun, some are harder than others but if you don't want to do one then you don't have too.  There are a variety of obstacles from army style nets to crawl under, walls to climb over and even a chance to use space hoppers, the last one was the best by far, it was an inflatable slide which finished in a pool of very muddy water. At each obstacle there are marshalls with buckets, hoses and water guns ready to get you wet and muddy but also there to egg you on if you need it.  If you ever get a chance to do on...

My third book of 2026 has got me hooked, theatre and ghosts all in one story. As you know I am a huge theatre fan so this one really sits well with me. The book in question is ' When the curtain falls ' by Carrie Hope Fletcher, this is a story which tells two tales in one that intertwine. The first is of a stage hand, Walter, and an actress, Fawn, who fall in love but must not show it, their story ends in heartache and sorrow, the second is off two actors 70 years later falling in love whilst performing the same show as Fawn, the first time it has been shown since she played the part. Oscar and Olive grow close whilst performing but strange things start to happen around them. The book pulls you in, makes you feel there emotions and the atmosphere of the setting and makes you want to know more and feel so intwined in the story. This really has had me hooked from chapter one and I have been loving the build up to it all. The chapters will bounce from present day to 19...

January has felt like a slog and what a miserable one for the weather too. I am definitely ready for February and the lighter mornings and evenings.  We have had a very quiet month, not a lot happening really, we just tried to make the most of the time and have tried to get jobs done that we can.  We started off with a little bit of excitement with a dusting of snow, and I mean a dusting. Our town never seems to enjoy the large amounts of snow but I am glad that we got some for the girls to throw some snowballs.  The next week was back to work and school, I struggled with this a little as I felt the Christmas holidays went so fast but we are fully back into the flow of it all now.  The next couple of weeks have been full of organising the house and starting to work on the garden too, making it ready for summer so we can take full advantage of it. All in all ita been a slow month but its been needed, I just wish the weather had been brighter and less wet. ...

These cupcakes are so delicious and simple to make, you only need a few ingredients and take 30 minutes. to make and cook. This mixture made 16 - 20 cupcakes. Ingredients Eggs - 3 Medium Eggs Marge - Weight of Eggs in oz Sugar - Weight of Eggs in oz Flour - Weight of eggs minus 2oz Drinking Chocolate - 2oz to make up the flour Chocolate frosting Red m&m's or smarties curly wurly bits Edible eyes Method 1. Preheat your oven to 180oC / Gas mark 5 2. Cream the sugar and marge together until it resembles whipped cream. 3. Add 1 egg at a time, if starts to curdle add a small amount of the flour. 4. Once all eggs are mixed in slowly sift in the flour and drinking chocolate and slowly mix. 5. Separate your mixture into cupcake cases evenly and place in the oven for 15-20 minutes, until springy to touch. Once cooked and cooled its time to get decorating: 1. spread your chocolate frosting evenly over the cakes. 2. Add your eyes and nose to the cakes 3. push your curly wurly ...

This is a post that I didn't think I would be writing this soon but yes, we are moving, again!  Circumstances have changed in the past couple of months which has meant that we have had to look for somewhere else to live, this has been a very stressful, crazy time but it is coming to an end. On Monday last week we signed the papers and got the keys to our new home! My emotions have been through the roof, from frustation and anger at the situation, excitment and nervousness about moving but sad about leaving this house as we have started to really make it feel homely.  The past week Liam has been working his socks off decorating the place and making it homely, with me helping over the weekend. The next week or so will be Liam finishing the decoating and us finishing packing up the house before our move at the weekend then to unpack it all in the new house and get that sorted as soon as possible.  Lets hope this is our home for longer than the one we ...

In my first post for this I said that I would revisit and it didn't take me long to do so. Yesterday we surprised Lilly with a trip to see SIX the musical in brighton, this was our second trip to this theatre to see this show and i forgot how beautiful it is. This time we booked the front row seats on the secon circle, these seats were brilliant and the view was perfect, but I would advise that the leg room isn't the best if you are tall. When enterting the theatre you are greeted by the merch stall with all kinds of treats from pins and t-shirts to crowns and charms, the box office is the other side when they can advise for anything, you can also request a physical tickets if you like at the cost of £2 per ticket, perfect for those who like the memory. SIX is based on the six wives of Henry VIII and tells there stories though a concert/competition style show with each queen beings loosely based off of modern pop stars. Each queen has there own song telling the story of there t...

A recipe that we have been using for many years now is our pizza sauce, this certain sauce has distinct similarities to one that is used by a major pizza take away and tastes amazing. The recipe below makes 3-4 portions of sauce depending on how much you use and how much you simmer the sauce down too.  Ingredients 450g Passata 235ml Water 1/4 tsp Basil 1/4 tsp Oregano 1/4 tsp Marjoram 1/4 Sage 1/4 Garlic Powder 1/4 tsp Black Pepper 1/4 tsp Cayenne Pepper 1 tbsp Oil Method Add the passata and water into a saucepan on a low heat. Add all the hebs and spices in and mix well Add the oil, mix and bring to the boil Once boiling, lower the heat, then cover and leave to simmer, mixing every 5 minutes Reduce the sauce down for around 20 - 30 minuites This is now ready to use Any left over, freeze in pizza size portions and enjoy when needed. We really enjoy this sauce and will contiue to use this for many years to come.  Victoria x

This post contains an affiliate link Since moving from a flat to a house we have been slowly introducing Jack to the outside world, this is not something that we have taken lightly and are trying to keep him safe whilst learning how to be confident and happy outside. We have been trying out this new harness from  Stimulicat  and are impress so far. The harness itself comes in many different colours and sizes suiting all cats, we went for orange with it being a contast to his fur colour. the sizing is easy to work out, Jack in around 5kg which means that we use a size small harness. The harness itself has a velcro farstening, a safety lock and the lead links through two loops on each side of the fastenings, this to me feels safe and secure yet comfy for Jack. The harness fits nicely around him and doesn't feel like it restricts him at all, and he moves freely with it on around the garden. All in all I am very happy with the harness and will contiue to use this for m...

We have recently been picked for the latest trying box, it has been a whole since we got a full box so I was excited to try the items. This box was a great mix of things that we have tried before and brands that we have not heard of too. 1. Corona extra can - This is a very familiar brand for us and one that both me and Liam enjoy, especially on those summer evenings with a slice of lime in too. 2. Rock face deodorant - This is a new brand to us and me and Liam have both been impressed, the scent was strong and long lasting and it actually worked for keeping him fresh too. 3. Ensure nutravigor drink - I have never been keen on things like this and it was sadly the same with this. It makes a vanilla tasting watery drink which wasn't for me but don't get me wrong it wasn't the worst thing ever. 4. John west tuna chunks in brine - I am the only tuna lover in the family and this was a winner for me. This has less liquid in so they can reduce some of there wastage. I...

I feel it's only right to share about our Race for life experience this year as I feel like it is an achievement for both me and Lilly. This is the second year that we have taken part and I wanted to firstly take part again as it's such a great way to raise money to find treatment for cancer, something that is really close to our hearts. But secondly I did want to beat last years time for the 5k and we did it! Race for life comes in two different forms, either a normal walk/run or a mud run. The normals runs consist of 3k, 5k and 10k races, they are always well organised, the route is easy to follow and the Marshalls are there to cheer you on. I am yet to do a muddy one but I really hope to do so one day. We managed to raise just over £150 between us and beat our time but 5 minutes bring us in at 48 minutes.  It is honestly an amazing event with such a lovely atmosphere and we will definitely be signing up again. Donate here Victoria x

April has been and gone in a flash, with birthdays, Easter, half term and illness thrown into the mix. We started off the month with the last week of term, a trip to a fort for me and an Easter bonnet parade to finish the term. Half term started off amazing, Lils learnt how to ride her bike in under 30 minutes and is now flying every time she rides. Olivia has also been having fun on her bike, flying along the path down the back of ours.  But I was struck with my second lot of tonsillitis and a chest infection to contend with. Luckily with antibiotics I was better in no time.  Next was Olivias 5th birthday! How is she 5? We had a lovely chilled day, she opened her presents and then we took her swimming, had family round and enjoyed lots of cake and treats.  Easter followed just after, this year was so nice as I was actually able to set up an outdoor egg hunt, the girls loved it and it really put a smile on my face. They had some many yummy treats to enjoy and ...

  Every year I create an Easter basket for the girls, this usually consists of things that keep them amused and occupied during the Easster holidays and normally on theme for spring/Easter. I usually get things from the works, poundland or B&M and normally way before the time.  Basket: Originally from Primark last year Bubble wands: Got from B&M Iron bead Easter characters: The Works Paint your own Easter shapes: The Works Easter bracelet set: The works Mini easter eggs: Morrisons I absoloutly love creating these and have done for many years, these can be so inexpensive and so fun for the kids to have. They both love opening this at the begining of the holidays and it always puts a smile on there face. Victoria

February actually went by in a flash for me, we had so much going on I don't feel like I stopped. There has been parties, half term and work being crazy busy too, I feel like I need another half term to refresh. Our month started quite slow with just school, the girls clubs and meeting family, but once Valenitnes hit the month went full speed. We had a lovely chilled Valentimes, I got the girls some small gifts and me and Liam shared gifts and a meal together at home, we watched a film and went to bed. The week after was half term which was lovely, I really enjoyed the time of and the time with the girls, we took some trips and had some time at home too. the week started woith a trip to the cinema to watch paddington in Peru, we took a trip to Sissinghurt Castle   and Olivia made her Rainbow promise on world thinking day. Then it was straight back into school and work and what a week it has been at work, its been a busy one for many reasons so I was glad that the w...

Every year for as long as I can remember I have created what is now known as a boo Basket and I wanted to share what I put in to make my girls smile.  I wanted to point out that this is normally just a few crafts for Halloween, nothing special but something that will keep the girls entertained.  I have started this year's Basket with a couple of Halloween colouring books with stickers, they are always fun for the girls to use. We have some spooky glowsticks for them to wear during treat of treating. We then have some Slime kits, I don't know whether that was the best thing but I know the girls will love to make it from scratch. I have also added a spooky bead kit with Halloween coloured beads and string. I have finished the basket off with some chocolate mice from aldi as a little sweet treat. I love creating these and will continue to do so for years to come, it's something that I know my girls will enjoy and get use out of.  Victoria x  

I know its late but I am finally getting around to writing my September recap. This last month has been the busiest I have been in years and I have loved mostly all of it.  September has brought a lot of change for us as a family, both me and Lilly celebrated our birthdays, I turned 33 and Lilly turned 12. I didn't do a lot for mine as I have just have a night out for my birthday but that will be in next month's recap. Lilly requested a family meal with a friend aswell.  I also started my new job as a teaching assistant, I am loving it but it's hard and full on. I never fully realised how much a TA does behind the scenes of a school. But I love that I am able to help in so many ways. The next new change is that Lilly has started secondary school, a huge step and one that I really have struggled with mentally. It seems inly yesterday she was starting primary and now she is in full swing of Secondary life, she os of course smashing it and making us proud. And also Olivia star...

We are well into the swing of autumn and the weather is definitely flying along with that too, the wind and rain is just been causing havock so what better to do than the Autumn tag. I have taken these questions from my old blog post but the answers are for me know and not 5 years ago. Let's see how things have changed. 1. What signifies the start of Autumn for you? It would have to be the middle of September, when the kids are fully in school and the leaves start to fall. The weather is still a little confused but there is just a different vibe 2. What is your favourite Autumn scent? This would have to be a really cosy scent, one of our favourite wax melts is autumn leaves and I also loved a sweet pumpkin scent. Just something that makes the house smell cosy. 3. What is your favourite Autumn colour? This would have to be dark green and dark red! These both scream Autumn/Winter to me.  4. What is your favourite Autumn drink? Anything hot, a hot chocolate or a warm latte...

To Lilly,  This week marks the last full week of you being at primary school, take it all in, enjoy these last few days  and makes some lovely memories to leave with. Me and your Dad are emensely proud of you and who you have become. It only feels like yesterday when you started, we were sat on the sofa watching 'time for school' to prepare you. We made a treasure box to take which bits and bobs in and took you up to the door on your first day. You have smashed every year and taken each hurdle as it came (including home learning during covid). I know both mine and your emotions are high and I know that you are excited for your next chapter but I also know that you will feel sad and grieve this part of your life being over. The friends that you will leave behind will make space for new ones but will never be forgotten and I am grateful that you will still be able to contact them which we never had. Have the best week, enjoy prom and your graduation and remember that we love you...

Goodbye June and hello July, it has been a crazy month with so much going on and so many highs! We started off last month with a job interview for me and I am pleased to say that i got the job, I start in September which is so exciting and hopefully a new chapter for us. Liam has been enjoying his job and has a tan that many people would envy. The girls have had transition days and meetings for there new school and have done amazing! This certainly was the month of change. Me and Lils took part in the  race for life  this month which I am so proud of, we raised £150 for cancer research, a charity very close to our heart and are so grateful for everyone that sponsored us. Liam was sadly working on Fathers day so we celebrated on the Saturday, on the Sunday we spent time with my Dad at Bodiam castle, a beautiful national trust location with lots to explore. We had lunch and watched the steam train on the local track from the tower. Lils has been on her year 6 residen...

Book 3 of 2024 |  Wilde like me  by Louise Pentland Now I have read this before but I now have the sequel which means that I need to refresh my memory of what happens. This is a beautiful story which starts with a Mum, Robin and her daughter, Lyla and how single parenting life isn't always easy but she makes it work whilst being an aspiring make up artist. The book is written in a diary style staring from January to December and follows her through a year of her life. The story is so well written with you being able to feel the emotions of the characters and always wanting to know more. With it being diary style it feels a little like you are part of the story and is so relatable to every day life. Wilde like me really is a great pick up story and is an easy light hearted read with a few heart string moments, it one that you find hard to stop reading. I am excited to finish this one and get on to the next story. Victoria x Book 1 of 2024 Book 2 of 2024