Islay Holiday - Part 7

Thursday

It dawned lovely and clear today. We decided that the food at the Ardbeg distillery was just too good not to experience again so thought that we should go back down, explore the Mull of Oa next to Port Ellen and then have lunch. It was a fair old slug down to the Mull of Oa, but we were rewarded with a beautiful scene: deep blue skies, highland moos (or ‘woollies’ as we now call them) and lovely green rolling hills. We decided to do the circular route and were glad we did. Tom started off well, happily toddling along the path but fell over in a muddy puddle which caused lots of tears (we discovered later on that he scuffed his knees so must have been some stones at the bottom) so I ended up with him on my back. Just as well really because the path went quite close to the edge of the cliffs – I wouldn’t have trusted him on his own.

The sea was calm, we could see the mainland and Northern Ireland quite clearly and even saw some freight ships heading off to North America, and one on its way to Scotland. We really could see for miles. It got a little windy once we got to the very tip of the Mull, but nothing bad, looked round the monument (in remembrance of some US Naval personnel who were torpedoed in 1918) and then made our way back.

Once out of the wind and on the down hill section I let Tom out of the rucksack so he could toddle on down. He wasn’t happy, in fact he was livid – he cried and snot and tears covered his face, but Matt was insistent (he has more patience than me) and forced him to walk. There was nothing wrong with him – he just was being stubborn. It spoiled the end of what was a lovely walk, but hey ho – tantrums are part of being a toddler!

Next stop was Ardbeg. I had been dreaming of having Seafood Paella again, but it wasn’t on the menu – instead I settled for Moules Marinere which once again was very good. It came with garlic bread which Tom decided was his (he gave me back the crusts). He then went on to have a scone with butter, jam and cream – greedy thing. Matt had a haggis and red onion baked potato which he devoured in no time at all. We then had another look round Ardbeg. We didn’t realise last time we were here that you could walk down to the shore – so we did this and took yet more photos – the distillery was looking very pretty in the sun.

Next stop was Port Ellen to pick up some meat and veg for dinner and then home.

Islay Holiday - Part 6

Wednesday

Today, the weather wasn’t as good – it had clouded over, so we decided to go over to the North East of the island and finish off our tour of the distilleries. We headed off to Bunnahabhain, where once again Tom went mad in the shop (just as well we were the only customers). I got a sample of a nice Whisky, but Matt went for the peaty one (yuck). We went for a wonder along the shore – Tom threw many stones into the sea – finding the largest ones on the shore of course.

Next stop was Caol Ila, where Tom was more interested in the building works than the whisky! This didn’t stop Matt though who bought his 7^th bottle of whisky. That brought our tour to an end, so we headed off to Port Askaig to the hotel there for lunch (which was run by the most stressed staff I have ever seen – couldn't find a reason for their stress as the restaurant wasn’t full, but by time we left, I was stressing for them – all very strange).

Next stop was Finlaggan, the ancient seat of the Lords of the Isles. A very very windy place – I almost got blown away, and I was weighed down with Tom on my back! We had a good clamber around and I found a patch (yahoo!). Then back home.

Islay Holiday - Part 5

Tuesday

We woke up to no wind and a blue sky this morning, so decided to go looking for a beach to play on. First stop was the Post Office in Portnahaven to buy a bucket and spade, then we headed off to Machir Bay. First stop was the war cemetery that overlooks the bay, then down to the beach. It was an amazing beach, fine, yellow sand which was warm on top and perfect for sandcastle building. We found a sheltered spot and made ourselves at home. We had the beach more or less to ourselves – it wouldn’t have been out of place in Spain (except of course for the lack of buildings and annoying Brits). It even had a boat wreck to explore.

After a couple of hours play, we headed off to the Kilchoman distillery for lunch (how handy that there was a distillery within a mile of the beach). We each had some Cullen Skink soup (Tom this time wasn’t playing ball and refused point blank) and Matt purchased a bottle.

On the way home, we decided to stop in at Bruichladdich distillery (our local one). Tom was just about asleep as we arrived, but as soon as he got into the shop, he went mad and ran round and round (must be the whisky fumes). This distillery makes gin as well as whisky, so for once I had a taster and we ended up spending a lot more than usual (oops).

Got home around 4pm.

Islay Holiday - Part 4

Monday

Weather forecast for today was bad – wind and rain, so we decided to start our tour of the distilleries. We headed off down to the South East of the island. First stop was Laphroaig where Matt claimed his square foot of peat bog (he’s a Friend of Laphroaig), and got his certificate and free dram. The girl in the shop took a liking to Tom (who was being simultaneously mad and shy) so he became a member too, as did I. Tom got his free dram which we have confiscated until he is 18. We then got some flags and went across to the peat bog to claim our land. A good marketing ploy, we enjoyed ourselves, and Matt spent more money in the shop as a result.

Forgot to say, the weather man got it very wrong today, it was gorgeous – clear blue sky, Laphroaig was nestled right on the shore, a stunning location, so we explored a little and took many photos.

Next stop was Lagavulin. A much smaller shop, and believe it or not, Matt wasn’t tempted by any of their whisky, but another stunning setting on the coast, near a ruined castle.

We then drove about 7 miles along the coast, past palm trees, to the Kildalton Cross, one of the oldest (8^th century) and best preserved Celtic crosses anywhere in the Celtic lands – it was in remarkable condition for its age. There was nobody about, so we larked about in the church yard for a bit – even Wilby had a run out, much to his enjoyment. This is the sheltered side of the island, and as a result is much lusher and less bleak than the wind-blasted hillside where we’re staying.

By now it was lunchtime and we were hungry, so we headed off to Ardbeg, whose restaurant has had nothing but good write-ups. We were found a table and looked at the menu - the Argyll Paella tempted me, and WOW, it was one of the best dishes I have had in ages – beautiful rice and sauce with the softest calamari I have ever had, mussels and langoustines. Everything about it was amazing. Unfortunately Tom thought so too and ate pretty much half the rice, 3 calamaris and 2 mussels (can’t complain though, he had good taste!) I, once again ended up having pudding to make up for my lack of lunch, and Matt ended up purchasing a bottle.

It was getting on for 3pm by now so we headed off to Bowmore to stock up on meat for the week. I was hoping to find a butcher but failed so ended up buying everything in Co-op (only to discover a butcher on the way out of town). We visited the distillery shop, but left empty-handed. Explored the shops on the high street – looking for souvenirs, couldn’t find much – Islay is one of the least known of the Hebrides and as a result isn’t really set up for souvenirs.

We then headed back home, almost 5pm before we got back. A fantastic day, the good weather really making it for us.

Islay Holiday - Part 3

Sunday

Not a great weather day, very very windy and some rain. We figured that most places would be closed today, so we decided to stay near the cottage and explore our immediate surroundings, especially as we have spent so much time in the car the last couple of days. We headed down to Portnahaven where we had a toddle around. The sea was looking really angry in the wind, but we spotted some seals in the harbour and watched them bobbing around for a while. To our surprise we found the Post Office open and also a pottery / tea room open, so we decided to have tea and a bun whilst we recovered from being battered by the wind. We then headed off to Port Charlotte, where we found a secluded little beach which was sheltered from the wind, so we went for a play – in full British beachwear: fleece, Gore-tex jacket, jeans and boots. It didn’t matter, we all had fun and the sand was great fun. Tom decided it would be fun to try and bury me – I couldn’t stop him, so relented and was covered in sand as a result.

We popped into the Port Charlotte Hotel for lunch. We just had sandwiches, but the people next to us had seafood and it looked wonderful. Pricey, but think it will be worth it, must go back for dinner.

Once done, we headed back to the cottage, put Tom down for his nap and then spent the afternoon playing in the garden (when not shooing black sheep from the garden)

Islay Holiday - Part 2

Today was a very long day. Neither Matt or I slept very well, both of us very aware that Tom was in the room and not wanting to wake him up. Tom, in his little tent faired much better and slept soundly for the whole night! Got up, had a quick breakfast and then headed off to Ardrossan to get the ferry to Brodick on Arran. The crossing was an hour long, during which Tom didn’t stop. He was into everything and would have tripped up everyone in the boat given half the chance. Luckily there was a toddler play room where he spent some time and he also asked to go outside which amazed us as it was very windy and he hates the wind! As long as I held him and he had his hood up he was quite happy – I guess a novel experience and lots of things to see.

We got to Arran at lunchtime. I had discovered that there was a cheese factory in Brodick next to a tearoom, so it seemed the perfect place to go. We turned up at the factory for a look around. Wouldn’t quite say it was a factory, more a shop with a window into the cheese waxing room. Somehow, though, we managed to find something we both liked and left the shop poorer but with enough cheese to see us through the week. Next stop was the tea room for a sandwich and then we headed off to the other side of the island towards the next ferry port. We were going to have a look at some of the points of interest, but Tom fell asleep, so we kept going and before we knew it we had arrived there. Not to worry though, Lochranza is the location of Arran’s only distillery, so off we went (we had to practice for Islay). Found a lovely shop with a friendly manager who didn’t seem to mind that there was a mad 2 year old running around it (with frantic, embarrassed mother close behind). Matt got talking and tasting and before he knew it, his first purchase of the holiday had been made.

Today’s weather was changeable: one minute cloudy and rainy, next minute clear and sunny. A clear and sunny patch had arrived so we decided to explore Lochranza castle by the harbour. Tom did some good clambering and surprised us as it was very very windy, and he didn’t complain too much – a good sign for the week ahead.

We got the next ferry to Claonaig on the Mull of Kintyre on the mainland. This was a small roll on roll off ferry, just us, another car and a couple of cyclists on board the 30 minute journey. Arrived to a sunny mainland, we drove straight across to the coast on the other side (only about 5 miles) towards the next ferry port – there was nothing going on there, so we carried up to the next town, Tarbert which was hosting a yacht race and was therefore very busy. A nice atmosphere, and luckily we managed to find a parking space, so had the opportunity to have a look around and find tea and a bun. We even came across the local pipers who gave us a rendition of ‘Scotland the Brave’ in their kilts. How much more Scottish can you get? Tom wasn’t too sure – a bit too noisy for him I think, but as long as I held him and reassured him, he was fine.

Our last ferry of the day was on time, we got on board and went straight to the restaurant for dinner. Matt had curry this time and therefore lost half his meal to a small boy. The crossing to Port Askaig was just over 2 hours, but we managed to keep Tom amused for most of it. He had a moment when another toddler tripped him up, but it was 2 hours after his bedtime, so it wasn’t surprising. He was asleep within 5 minutes of us landing on Islay. We drove straight to the house and put Tom to bed. He was whimpering as I changed him into his pyjamas, but went straight to sleep, giving us a chance to unpack the car and get ourselves settled in. The cottage was lovely, very comfortable, and one more bedroom than we remembered, meaning we have more than enough room. Location is very remote – in the middle of the Western peninsula towards Portnahaven – basically in the middle of nowhere. We have two neighbours as well as a lot of sheep and cows.

Islay Holiday - Part 1

Friday

Not too much to say about today, it was a driving day: from Telford to Kilmarnock. Took about 5 hours in total. Stopped off at our favourite supermarket restaurant – Booths in Garstang for lunch. This restaurant does the most wonderful food for very decent prices, is large and airy and has an interactive children’s play area, meaning we were all happy.

Tom was impeccably behaved in the car, didn’t moan once. He slept for about an hour and happily amused himself with books and toys I had put out for him. Got to the Travelodge, where to our surprise they had a travel cot which they gave us free of charge, so we put up our tent shelter around it meaning Tom had his private room within our room.

Next stop was Asda to get some food in for the week (don’t think there is much in the way of supermarkets in Islay and pretty sure most will be closed tomorrow), found some haggis and potato scones, so certainly getting in the mood for Scotland.

We then found a family friendly pub for dinner (so family friendly, each booth had a TV in it – no good for us as Tom doesn’t ‘do’ TV). Matt dived straight in for Haggis, whilst I went for curry. Tom decided my dinner looked better and ate it! And I mean that, he ate a good ¾ of my rice and half my chicken and sauce. It was so bad, that I ended up getting a pudding to fill me up (Tom would have eaten that too, except Matt wouldn’t let him!)

The new bike

Just a quick post this time, but we thought you might like to see some video of our latest family activity. We've bought a proper mountain bike with a seat on thew back for Tom to ride in. We wondered how he might take to it, given that we haven't managed to get his helmet on him until now. No need to worry though - he loved it straightaway and seems more than happy to wear his lid.

2 weekends

Wow, I really have got behind this time!

I didn't post anything for the first weekend in May as nothing really happened. Matt was away at a conference, so I was home alone. It rained on Saturday, so I nipped into the shopping centre for a few essentials and that was about as exciting as it got. Sunday was better weather, so we went out - wasn't too exciting as I can't remember what we did!

Monday was my birthday and Matt decided to take the day off as he hadn't seen Tom all weekend. We went to Blists Hill, but ended up having to duck inside the buildings as it kept raining. Meant we learnt a new word 'spirtle' which is a tool for making sauces - it gets into the corners of a saucepan to stop any burning. Apparently it's Scottish, anyway the wood carver made one for us and we bought it.

We had a small lunch at the pub there before heading over the river to investigate bikes (our new fitness plan is to take Tom bike riding - he gets more outside time and we get fit) Man in the bike shop was very helpful, so we ended up buying all the kit - scary and exciting all at the same time.

This weekend was a bit more exciting. Mum and Dad came up to stay and they looked after Tom on Sunday and Monday so we could go off on a spa break. Tom had a wonderful time and was saying a lot more words on our return (guess he needs stimulation from an outside source to get him going!) Mum and Dad didn't look as tired as I expected, said that he was very well behaved, slept well, ate ok and full of giggles, so that was good.

We also had a fab time, went to a spa hotel in the Sherwood Forest, had full use of the facilities (sauna, steam room, pool, loungers etc) and...AND a 50 minute deep tissue massage which was WONDERFUL, didn't want it to end - felt so so so so so so so so good. After turning pink in the sauna one last time, we headed off to Worksop to find a restaurant. Not much was open, so we ended up in a cheap Chinese. Wasn't too bad, and the service was good.

Morning was spent eating cheese scones for breakfast, then another dip in the pool and sweat in the sauna before regrettably saying goodbye. We then headed into Bakewell for lunch and then headed across country back home. Took an absolute age, but got there in the end.

That's about it. We took delivery of the bike today, gave it a test run with Tom who loved it - giggles all the way and didn't complain when I put his helmet on, so that's a result. I took some pics and film and will post them once they are downloaded.

New words: hot, cold, bubble, yummy, pop, wow, bye, (I'm sure there are others, but can't think of them right now) Oh and apparently at nursery he said 'look Emma' when he was playing with the playdoh which is a huge break through and his first verb. He hasn't repeated it for us yet though...

Another gorgeous long weekend

So, another fabulous weekend. Not quite as hot as last week, but sunny everyday, meaning we were out and about every day enjoying the good weather.

Friday

Today was the Royal Wedding, I wasn't that interested, Matt was very uninterested and of course Tom didn't care less. So, we decided to continue with Tom's train education and took him on the Severn Valley Railway. It was completely empty which was fab, got to sit in the best carriages and lots of attention. We stopped off at Highley to look in the Engine Shed and to have lunch whilst watching the trains go past. We then headed off to Kidderminster and back again. Tom was on good form and managed to last until 3.30 when we got back to Bridgnorth. (He was asleep in seconds in the car home). I spent the evening babysitting Mae and catching up with my cake accounts and The Royal Wedding. April was my best month by over 50% - I haven't stopped, hence why you haven't seen any of my latest creations here and why I am always behind on the blog, I literally have no time to do it with all the cake things I am doing. However, I am enjoying it, so am not complaining, just it would be nice to have about 30 hours in a day instead of 24!

Saturday

This morning we met up with Rachel, Phil and Mae and took them on the walk we did with Jude last week, as it is perfect for toddlers - lots of different environments and not too long. Mae was on good form and went toddling off at a great speed whilst Tom decided he was going to grizzle and refuse to walk! Typical! I ended up carrying him about half the way round, but he did eventually warm up and walk the end bit. We then went down to the park in Ironbridge for a play where we bumped into Jane and Daisy prior to a quick visit to the Town Centre for provisions and a picnic in the park. In the evening Rachel came round to babysit and Matt and I headed off to Wolverhampton to try out a steak house that Rachel recommended. We were very glad we did - it was wonderful, made us realise how tasteless most of the b

eef we have eaten recently has been. Anyway a lovely night out. Been having quite a few recently which is nice.

Sunday

Finally, I had managed to nail Helen down and get her to agree to meet up with us. I found a park half way between us where she could bring her dog, so we met up for a picnic and a walk. They were all doing well, and we had a lovely afternoon catching up with the various trials and tribulations of our lives. Finn had changed so much since we last saw him. Last time we saw him he was a stocky rugby player toddler type with bright red curly hair. He has slimmed down and lost his curls which is a shame. Anyway he was in good spirits and they all looked happy.

Monday

We decided to go to Ashes Hollow to build a dam. Tom hasn't been here before, but we took Jacob and Laura when they were toddlers and remember they enjoyed it. Tom wasn't on best form today, he had a nose bleed (second one recently, not sure what is causing them) and he kept falling over making us think something was wrong with his legs, but we couldn't find anything and he certainly wasn't in pain, just that he couldn't seem to stay upright. Anyway, he loved dam building and did quite a good job helping us put (well throw) stones into their place. He even managed not to get wet which was quite an achievement.

Before we knew it, we had been there for over 2 hours and we were all in need of lunch, so headed back to Church Stretton to our favourite cafe where they serve really good cheese scones. Tom was very naughty, initially refusing to eat and wriggling, kicking etc etc. In the end we found a high chair and put him in it. He still kicked his legs and fidgeted, but at least this was I wasn't being kicked and punched!

That's about it - no nose bleed and legs working fine today, so I guess it was just 'one of those things' that never gets explained. I'm back doing my sugarcraft course on Tuesday nights, and have a load of cake orders to get out, so busy busy busy.

New Words: Mine and Emma (his key worker at nursery)

The Cocking Of The Leg

This seems to be our new morning and evening activity - seat drops and 'cocking of the leg' on our bed. Not sure where Tom got the 'cocking of the leg' idea from, not to worry, it is very funny!

Fabulous Easter

Well, what a wonderful four days we've had. Deciding to stay at home for Easter was an excellent choice, as we've had four days of almost unbroken sunshine, temperatures in the mid-20s, and a toddler in tip-top form.

On Friday, we decided to do a walk that we've been meaning to try for several years, namely leaving the car at Telford town centre and walking all the way down to Coalport. We finally had the presence of mind to get ready the day before, parked the car near Randlay pool in the town park, and set off on our journey south. Tom walked wonderfully well, mostly thanks to us kicking his football ahead of him and getting him to chase it, which he did with great glee. It also helps that Telford to Ironbridge is downhill nearly all the way. It would have been a different story going the other way. Still, I reckon he walked about 2 miles out of a total of about 5. The path dropped us just near the Museum of China in Coalport, where we sat on the canal bank and ate our picnic in the company of several sleepy ducks. It was all very pleasant. We then got the free bus back to Madeley, which Tom seemed to enjoy immensely - he sat on the front seat, never tried to take his seat belt off and generally looked very pleased with himself. We then got another bus back to the town centre, on which he also behaved very well, and I think he was asleep before we'd even left the car park. That was fair enough though, as he'd expended a terrific amount of energy in the morning.

Today was also the first road test of my new Teva trekking sandals, which proved themselves to be amazingly comfortable, especially given that I had around 30 lbs on my back for a good portion of the walk.

Saturday involved a bit of a road trip, as Nik had to deliver a wedding cake to Sutton Coldfield for 11 o'clock, but fortunately, all she had to do was deliver it and we were then free for the rest of the day. Shugborough Hall was more or less on the way back, so we stopped there for lunch (another picnic), after which Tom again kicked his football for a considerable distance across the grounds, pausing only to get grumpy when another little boy dared to pick his football up. The sulk didn't last very long, however, and we were all restored by a sit in the meadow, where Nik and I each ate an ice cream and Tom ate some daisies and dandelions. Each to his own I suppose. Shugborough is a pretty huge estate, but they have a free mini-train service to ferry people about, so we all enjoyed a ride on that back to the car. Tom was a bit late to bed that night due to the slightly unusual timing of the day, but we were in bed by 9.30, so knackered were we (we've also been working quite hard in the garden recently). It's hard work trying to keep up with an energetic (lunatic) toddler.

We got up late on Sunday as we all needed a bit of a lie in, but after breakfast, Tom and I did some more gardening in an attempt to tie him out enough for him to go back down for a morning nap. It worked, and he was out like a light from 11.00 until 12.45, when Auntie Jude arrived. After a quick lunch at home, we headed back down to Coalbrookdale for another attempt at a walk we did a few months ago when Tom grizzled and screamed the whole way round. No such problems this time though, and we had a really lovely walk through a secluded area called Loamhole Dingle which follows a stream through some very dense woodland. Some of it was quite steep uphill, but Tom did the whole walk by himself and even managed to find the energy to hoof his football around a meadow halfway round. We were all very impressed with the stamina and good nature he showed - he's a real joy to be around when he's in that sort of mood. What's more, we got home and had slow-cooked ribs for dinner, and Nik managed to get quite a bit of pork down him, albeit hidden in rice. Still, definitely a good result.

Jude then toddled back up to Chirk, and we had another (much-needed) quiet evening at home.

Today we managed to tick off another activity that we've been meaning to do for years - the Telford Steam Railway. The actual train ride isn't very long, probably less than a mile, but it was hard not to be impressed by the enthusiasm and dedication of the volunteers that run it. They have plans to extend the line all the way down to Ironbridge, and I really hope they manage it. I think that may be some way off though. Being Easter weekend, Tom was given a free bag of mini eggs and we were allowed a free hot cross bun each at the cafe. Nik and Tom also had a ride on a miniature railway - a beautiful replica of one of the the sadly now-defunct Wrexham and Shropshire Trains. We were all captivated by an enormous model railway there as well - something that both of Tom's grandfathers should probably visit when they're next up here.

We were hoping to have another lunch at the Green Wood Centre, but it was closed, so we ended up at the Fat Frog pub instead, where I had a very nice pizza and Nik had a very average panini. We just about managed to keep Tom awake in the car on the way home, and even now fast asleep in his cot, presumably dreaming of steam trains.

New words of the weekend: Bike and...train (of course!)

Pirate Tom

Apologies for the long delay since the last post. We've both been flat out with work and haven't really had the time.

Anyway, last weekend my friend Michael came to visit us from London and, given the nice weather, we picked him up from the station and headed straight to the Green Wood Centre in Coalbrookdale for an alfresco lunch, and then took Tom for a good long walk along the front at Ironbridge, across the bridge itself, and down the bank on the far side to a pub, where we stopped for a restorative pint. Tom walked very nicely, and didn't have to be carried very much at all, although every dog that we came across meant a two-minute delay while he watched it all the way until it disappeared from view.

After river cobbler and risotto (one of our current favourites) for dinner, Tom had his usual bath and story, after which Nik got to work icing a cake and Michael and I headed out to try and find a nice local pub (we've only been here seven years after all). As luck would have it, we found an old inn in Oakengates that has been running since 1830, and still has all its original interior decor and most of the original frosted windows. Add to that a wide range of local ales and it was an excellent evening. We are now planning to go there for lunch one day.

On Sunday morning, Nik and Tom had an appointment at a local play barn for a birthday party, so Michael and I dropped them off and filled in the ensuing two hours with a good stiff climb up the Wrekin and down the other side. The weather was fantastic again and, despite a lot of heat haze, the views across Shropshire were wonderful. We then picked up the party-goers and headed to the golf club for lunch, where we all had a good nosh. Michael and I then walked back home through the Granville nature reserve, before I took him back to the station to get his train back to London.

As is often the case, a nice weekend past far too quickly, and before I knew it it was time to get back to work on Monday morning.

A glorious weekend

What a glorious weekend - unbroken sunshine and everyone well and in a good mood, what could be better?

Saturday we decided to go for a 'proper' walk, so headed out to Rodney's Pillar just across the Welsh border - it is a steep climb, but with our new found fitness from the Forest of Dean we figured we would be able to do it.

To our surprise, Tom decided he would show us that he can walk really well and walked about half way up the hill (it's a high hill) and it was all uphill, no flat areas at all - he was an absolute gem, laughing and giggling his way up - it took quite a while as he tends to stop and start - it is either stand still or run with him! We finally got to the top where we were rewarded with views across Shropshire and Powys. We had our picnic at the top and then headed down a much steeper path, I carried him down (Matt carried him up for the bits he needed a rest). My knees were completely shot by the time we got to the bottom of the steep bit, but Tom was then happy to toddle back down to the car park from there. We reckon he did a good 2 miles if not more. We found a pub just round the corner from the car park so had a quick drink before heading home. Tom was asleep almost instantly - who can blame him?

He had a good long sleep, during which time Matt tilled the vegetable patch ready to plant potatoes. Once Tom was up, we got the potatoes out and Tom helped plant them - he got the hang of it really well, almost as if he knew what he was doing. I will now try to teach him to water them and talk to them, maybe we will then get a good harvest.

As we were all tired from our walk, we decided to head to our favourite Indian for dinner. We were first in, got our usual table and then Tom got stuck in. He ate an ENORMOUS amount of food, just didn't stop shovelling it in. The staff were really chuffed that he liked it so much. Their Masala sauce was definitely a hit and he also liked the paneer, so will get that for him again next time we visit.

Got home, decided not to give him a bath, so straight to bed - we didn't hear a peep from him.

Slept in until 8am on Sunday - we were all tired. In the morning we headed down to Ironbridge for the monthly BEST walk - not quite on the scale of yesterday - just a pleasant ramble down the hill and back with good company. The pace was a little bit too fast for Tom, he managed about a third of it, but his constant stopping slowed everyone down too much, so we ended up putting him in the rucksack. We then headed into Blists Hill for a picnic and then did the walk down to the Incline Plain and back (so basically the same walk again - but this time within the museum rather than outside the museum). Tom showed signs of getting tired, so we headed home.

The afternoon was spent getting all the garden furniture out, cleaning the bbq out etc for the first bbq of the year. We sat out front with the Gouge's and enjoyed the sun. It really was quite hot - I have definitely caught the sun. Tom spent most of the afternoon playing with Becca - he really likes her - no idea why as she bosses him and drags him around, but he just follows her like a lost puppy. Is really cute to see - and wonderful to sit back and watch.

Around 6.30 Tom started getting tired again, so I put him in the bath (where he tried to swim?) and then stories and bed. He should be having happy dreams.

New words: 'down' (Me: "Tom say up"...Tom: "DOWN!" - Tom was on the see saw on Friday with Mae and I was saying up and down to him, so now thinks that you must say down in response to up) and today he started to say 'car' when he saw them in Ironbridge. He is definitely trying to say more and more, but the sounds he needs to repeat all words aren't there yet...

A relaxing time in The Forest of Dean

Wow! Not sure how this holiday crept up on us, one minute it was months away and the next we were on it. So, we had found ourselves a lovely log cabin in the Forest of Dean to rent for Monday to Friday - it's a part of the country I don't know very well which is strange considering I lived not too far away for a number of years.

The log cabin was wonderful - much larger than I expected, and the hot tub on the veranda (that's what sold us the holiday) was WONDERFUL, all 3 of us took full advantage of it.

Day one was spent getting to the cabin via stop offs for lunch (lovely country pub in Shilton) shopping (Gloucester) and a view point (Symonds Yat), then got the keys to our cabin and settled in (ie rearranged the furniture to fit Tom in his own room). Tom immediately loved it and spent the afternoon running up and down its length giggling. We then all had a soak in the hot tub (had to make sure it worked) before putting Tom to bed over an hour late (well we are on holiday after all). Then back to the hot tub for another soak (yep still working)

Had a lovely leisurely morning and then decided to go back to Symonds Yat for a walk. Unfortunately it started raining on our way over there and then didn't stop all day! We were stalwarts though and did the whole walk in the rain. Tom decided to catch up in his sleep and fell asleep in the rucksack whilst I was carrying him (I think the boys were plotting against me to make sure I got a lot of exercise as I couldn't put him down or transfer him to Matt whilst he was asleep!) He slept for a good 45 mins - waking up just before we got back to the car. Unfortunately we had to have our picnic in the car as it was so wet (humpfh!). We then went back to the view point - couldn't see much, but you could get a real good speed up on your bus free-wheeling down the hill from it (Matt had to run to keep up with him)

Got back to the cabin, dried off, jumped in the hot tub (much nicer getting wet this way!), had dinner and then put Tom to bed (even later this time)

Wednesday it was still raining, so we decided to visit the Clearwell Caves. We had to negotiate our way through a very full car park - there was a huge film crew there from Merlin - we've never watched it so can't say if we saw anyone famous. Tom didn't have the best of times there, he grizzled quite a bit and I had to carry him for most of the way round. We understood why later, he fell asleep as soon as we put him in the car - must have been tired. He has reverted back to 2 naps a day - a result of lots of physical activity, less sleep and lots of time in the hot tub! We drove to Monmouth for lunch and found a fab coffee shop located in a even more fabulous cook shop. I was in heaven! Food was fantastic as were the cakes and they even made Tom some cheese on toast which wasn't on the menu - but which he demolished in no time at all. I am very glad we don't live near there - all my profits would be spent in that shop!

We returned to the cabin, put Tom down for his second nap of the day and then spent the afternoon walking round the cabin site - there were walks, a play area and lots of other toddlers to investigate. Then of course another session in the hot tub before dinner.

Thursday we decided to have a very leisurely morning, Tom spent most of it running up and down the cabin before being put to bed for his morning nap. We then headed out to Beechenhurst Lodge where there was a sculpture trail in the forest. Tom was nicely refreshed so after an early picnic he did really well exploring the trail before resorting to the rucksack. At one point we found a stained glass window which was really interesting. We let Tom out of his rucksack so he could toddle around. He walked for another half hour (after attempting to get in the rucksack on his own and falling over - he looked like a surprised beached whale bless him!) Got back to the start and Tom still had the energy to play in the play area - not sure how?! His Daddy was happy though, he got to play as well as you can see.

Got back to the cabin late, had a looooong hot tub before Tom went to bed very late again! We then had another hot tub.

Friday, we had to leave the cabin by 10am so we were up earlier to get everything sorted, ended up being ready by 9am. We headed to Cannop Ponds for another walk. Tom once again did very well - walking about half of the 2 mile trail. We then headed back home, stopping at the Queens Wood Cafe at an Arboretum just outside Hereford. We had a good lunch, including Tom who ate two of the biggest fish fingers I have ever seen as well as a huge portion of chips (the best chips I've had in ages)

Got home around 2.30. Tom slept in the car and then again in the cot on our arrival. I then took him to Asda to get some milk and eggs. It all went very bad at this stage, Tom refused to walk and cried and cried and screamed and screamed. He did this for a good 1.5 hours. I have no idea what was wrong, he was well rested, well fed and well watered. He was just grumpy (not happy to be home?). Meant that it took 2 hours to go to Asda and back (coming back he was absolutely fine!)

So, he was late to bed again, but no hot tub this time - boo hoo!

Anyway we had a lovely, relaxing break - would definitely consider doing it again. Very few of the attractions in the area were open, so there would be plenty to do a second time.

Word of the holiday: Tom has started to say 'hello' although it comes out as 'ello'. He has started to shout it at the top of his voice at random times, is very funny and lovely.

London with Grannie and Grandpa

We actually managed a fairly early start on Saturday, leaving the house around 9.00am and, following a quick stop at Wychwood Kennels to drop off Mog, we had a very easy journey down the M6 and M1 to St. Albans, where lunch with Lindsey and Stuart awaited. It was sausages (yeah!), so we all ate well, especially Tom, and I discovered the delights of Levi Roots Reggae Reggae tomato ketchup. I've never liked ketchup, but I do now. Tom was a bit grumpy to start with, but we took him for a game of skittles on the lawn (he's a terrible cheat) and he spent ages playing with Stuart's BigTrak (retro 80s toy), which he pushed round their flat over and over again.

After lunch, Nik headed for London with the girls for a Dirty Dancing matinee in the West End, and Tom and I got back in the car to drive to London. He didn't seem to mind being parted from Mummy and he was also impeccably behaved in the car, despite the London end of the journey being very slow.

He took around 20 seconds to settle in at Grannie & Grandpa's, then got stuck into his ever growing stash of toys. His tiger trike is now the perfect size for him, and the wheelbarrow was just as popular as last time. He basically spent all afternoon playing happily, ate an OK-ish tea, had a good bath, and then refused to go to bed after his milk & story. He just kept pointing at the bedroom door as if to say "I'm not finished playing yet". However, he'd only had half an hour's sleep all day (in the car, just after we left Telford), so exhaustion overcame rage very quickly and he had a great sleep, waking only once for a cough.

Sunday looked like being nice, and Grannie thought a trip to Windsor might interest the lad. 5 is a bit of a squeeze in the Lancer, so it was decided that the girls would go in the car and the boys would take the train. A good plan, as it turned out - Tom sat on my knee (in the first class car) for the whole 40 minute journey, seemingly fascinated by the view from the window. I was delighted, and not a little surprised. In fact, he sat still for so long that my legs went to sleep. We arrived at Windsor station to find Mummy & Grannie waiting at the end of the platform, but Tom was extremely reluctant to move away from his beloved train, remaining rooted to the platform and dissolving into tears when I led him away.

It didn't last long though - we walked into town and went to the old station for a coffee. He toddled round quite nicely and seemed genuinely interested in his surroundings. We went for some tapas at La Tasca for lunch - we enjoyed it, but Tom was a bit bolshy and wouldn't each much. After lunch, though, he walked very nicely, stopping only to wave at the numerous aircraft on their way to Heathrow and stare at a huge flock of swans on the Thames. We decided to let him have a bit of time in a playground, which he enjoyed as always, and I then put him on my shoulders for the short walk back to the station. If there were any doubts about whether he would have been better going back in the car, they were dispelled by a huge "YEAH!" when he spotted the train in the platform. Very touching. He sat very nicely on my knee again, but after 20 minutes or so, it was all too much and he fell into a deep sleep, which lasted all the way to Mortlake, most of the walk home and then for another hour in his cot.

He then proceeded to eat a mammoth dinner, have another good bath and hit the hay with no protest whatsoever.

A lovely day, and one which has prompted us to make our next trip to London a longer one. He really enjoys his time there.