tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12292047956750517372024-03-08T19:15:18.239+00:00Just Add GingerLiverpool based parenting & lifestyle blog.
Gingerjaxxhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00442902807148779977noreply@blogger.comBlogger507125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1229204795675051737.post-58859607865996976142020-06-21T20:14:00.001+01:002020-06-21T20:47:58.530+01:00Finding A New Kitchen Favourite In EasiYo* | Just Add Ginger<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">I've kept it no secret that <b>I've struggled with living a life in lockdown</b>. I started out with so much enthusiasm - printing out and planning arts and crafts, setting up toy stations, and keeping to somewhat of a routine. But as time has gone on, my motivation has become less and less. I'm finding things tough. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2j-AjHZ3zZQ61OW4dCPdB4ellbam7cxuITW1y35ySr9uFbbTjJwsIuZFingxAwpuKihChpU49_VwKorMJTx3W27AmhH0lIBMWWuvmJ8u7x0pKNzvRPRj4dxoRh-2-_NBpXmqBFxdJ17JM/s1600/DSC00732.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="toddler sitting next to EasiYo and yoghurt mix" border="0" data-original-height="1216" data-original-width="1600" height="486" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2j-AjHZ3zZQ61OW4dCPdB4ellbam7cxuITW1y35ySr9uFbbTjJwsIuZFingxAwpuKihChpU49_VwKorMJTx3W27AmhH0lIBMWWuvmJ8u7x0pKNzvRPRj4dxoRh-2-_NBpXmqBFxdJ17JM/s640/DSC00732.jpg" title="easiyo I" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Eric has always been full of life. Constantly on the go, it is very tricky to get him to engage with structured activities that last too long or involve lots for him to do. He loses interest. And barely as we've begun he'll get fidgety and start saying "play outside, play outside" and then spring out the back door, leaving the painting/drawing/puzzles behind without a second look. </span></div>
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<span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">But one thing that has kept his interest is food. </span><em style="margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Ah yes</em><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">, our Eric loves his food. And we try to involve him in cooking, baking, and getting creative in the kitchen as much as possible. Which is why I knew having an </span><a class="_e75a791d-denali-editor-page-rtfLink" href="https://uk.easiyo.com/" style="color: #4a6ee0; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;" target="_blank"><strong style="color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">EasiYo</strong></a><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">* would be a huge hit with him. I've been intrigued by this product for </span><em style="margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">ages </em><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">and have been itching to give one a try. Well, with British summertime weather leaving us as quickly as it arrived, this week I had my chance. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRxUJoq8_lgFxQNAIATewhHFHjWFeEjU0KKrujEAELzMFv33-Hue9DiQAS5boooY88xoEt8EsY0xZcUBz6GMP4T70Z7kpFistcXuhqiCisWXvFqvH5DuWqeAbmb_ZJQR3UrlK2RthSGU66/s1600/DSC00730.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="toddler looking at easiyo yogurt maker and yoghurt mix" border="0" data-original-height="1065" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRxUJoq8_lgFxQNAIATewhHFHjWFeEjU0KKrujEAELzMFv33-Hue9DiQAS5boooY88xoEt8EsY0xZcUBz6GMP4T70Z7kpFistcXuhqiCisWXvFqvH5DuWqeAbmb_ZJQR3UrlK2RthSGU66/s640/DSC00730.jpg" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVdNkdF6lGzmcK6xZV4eZLdVRcVnVFhMsd4yYYVkCMn7WeYkrqr31v4dUiZQ7IYk8URQINY7JPk5-qJNWTL8jkpAXm_bD_Uix8BmD-VD_3NeaGe9k8D-r_kpmkZeNNVETxUnn4d_AUUa75/s1600/DSC00738.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="toddler pouring in easiyo yoghurt mix to container" border="0" data-original-height="1029" data-original-width="1600" height="410" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVdNkdF6lGzmcK6xZV4eZLdVRcVnVFhMsd4yYYVkCMn7WeYkrqr31v4dUiZQ7IYk8URQINY7JPk5-qJNWTL8jkpAXm_bD_Uix8BmD-VD_3NeaGe9k8D-r_kpmkZeNNVETxUnn4d_AUUa75/s640/DSC00738.jpg" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Waiting until the little one was having his nap, Eric and I hit the kitchen. Knowing how excited he would be about making his own yoghurt (he loves the stuff) I made sure I set up a little work station for him and had plenty for him to do. He was really intrigued by the large pink container and packets of yoghurt mix and was desperate to get stuck in. </span></div>
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<span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">I can honestly say that <b>this has been the most enthusiastic I've seen Eric </b>out of any of the activities I've planned since this new kind of normal started. And it was because it was so </span><strong style="margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">toddler-friendly.</strong><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> Quick, easy, and exciting, the steps were so simple to follow and there was a lot Eric could get involved in. We were gifted two sachets to try so he got to pick which one we made, he got to pour the powder into the yoghurt maker, he got to help me shake the maker....and every step was short and snappy. It was brilliant. And the most exciting part was that he got to eat some once it was ready. </span><br />
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<span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Once set up you need to leave the yoghurt to set for 8-12 hours and on and off Eric would ask me if the yoghurt was ready and if he could have some. It was the sweetest thing. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi11zftT4ioA4dVIlIVP7Cj_pRlxiUyX__6Q12vk40ED_4uLA9CugoqgUr20NrBnxCGuTusczZ6Z_zDj0C2rs30lfuuIcHLCbBrRFEdBJnxSrD5irtGJKBJHdRU6jWp-jGb5tts8MGpbYZB/s1600/DSC00743.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="bowl of easiyo greek yoghurt with chocolate topping" border="0" data-original-height="1065" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi11zftT4ioA4dVIlIVP7Cj_pRlxiUyX__6Q12vk40ED_4uLA9CugoqgUr20NrBnxCGuTusczZ6Z_zDj0C2rs30lfuuIcHLCbBrRFEdBJnxSrD5irtGJKBJHdRU6jWp-jGb5tts8MGpbYZB/s640/DSC00743.jpg" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">This lockdown we have really tried to make as many things at home as possible. We've made bread, cakes, biscuits, fudge, and now yoghurt too, and the level of pleasure that not just Eric, but we all have gotten out of doing so is immeasurable because we can enjoy the fruits of our labour and have added new skills to our belt. And the EasiYo has by far been the most successful family 'cooking' activity. It is just </span><em style="margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">brilliant</em><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">. </span></div>
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<span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">With a range of flavours to try, and with each batch making 1kg of yoghurt <b>we are definitely getting the most out of having an EasiYo</b>. The end product is delicious, will really last us and the process of making the yoghurt is so much more fruitful than one of those cake mixes in a box because - quite frankly - Eric has to wait for the end result so much longer. Instead of making something he could easily devour in one shot, he has to wait and see what happens with the EasiYo and this is so much more exciting for him. A whole delicious tub of yoghurt waiting for him hidden away in a pretty pink container...I can see where the kid's coming from! </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWJK8teOOEvnTvSxdPaH3Zvxw4Ztsw8vz0qpjnLdVg6DgZ289gcFb1vZmguh8ZkZKF4-eDgFmwnzlkTgg1jFFIaOM3U9z6Ba7zLcBSTtYzjzgaFVu4dKQw3Knt09C6A1p8dDb5vzNL0PHa/s1600/DSC00754.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="toddler posing with an easiyo and empty bowl of yoghurt" border="0" data-original-height="1052" data-original-width="1600" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWJK8teOOEvnTvSxdPaH3Zvxw4Ztsw8vz0qpjnLdVg6DgZ289gcFb1vZmguh8ZkZKF4-eDgFmwnzlkTgg1jFFIaOM3U9z6Ba7zLcBSTtYzjzgaFVu4dKQw3Knt09C6A1p8dDb5vzNL0PHa/s640/DSC00754.jpg" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">The smile in these photos says it all. We are newfound EasiYo fans and for the amount of joy it brought to our little boy's face, it's not going anywhere anytime soon! </span></div>
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<i style="caret-color: rgb(102, 102, 102); color: #666666; font-family: molengo; font-size: 15.399999618530273px; text-align: center;">*I was very kindly gifted an EasiYo to review. This does not affect my opinions. They are always 100% honest and guided by my own personal experiences.</i></div>
Gingerjaxxhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00442902807148779977noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1229204795675051737.post-34511719819161447072020-03-15T21:32:00.000+00:002020-03-16T09:22:40.202+00:005 Lessons I've Learnt Since Becoming A Mum Of Two* | Just Add Ginger<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<i>AD // Gifted</i></div>
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I always saw myself as a mum of more than one. I never grew up with a brother or sister and it was my dream to have two / three children so that they would always have each other. When I became a mother to my firstborn - Eric, it definitely opened my eyes to what being a parent actually meant. I learnt so much about myself and my capabilities and it really cemented the fact that I would do it all over again. </div>
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However, as much as nothing can prepare you for becoming a parent for the first time, welcoming a second child into the family changes things in a completely different way. And now, nearly 8 months down the line, there are definitely some <b>life lessons I've picked up along the way</b>.</div>
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<b>1. You Become A Lot More Relaxed. </b></div>
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The things that I used to get neurotic and paranoid over as a first time parent just don't phase me anymore. With Eric I'd set alarms to remind me when bottles ran out of time, I cleaned and scrubbed everything to within an inch of itself and would agonise for ages making sure his nappies were done up <i>just right. </i></div>
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But now <b>I just don't have a choice but to go with the flow</b>. I never remember the last time Ezra had a bottle, I don't bother changing him if his clothes get a bit dirty and if things end up in his mouth that have been on the floor.... <i>oh well</i>! I don't have the time to stress out about everyday parenting tasks because with two little ones running (and crawling) around my feet all day I just have to get on with it. If I was to try and keep up with the same level of what I saw as "perfect parenting" the first time round I think I would probably end up in a heap on the floor.</div>
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<b>2. There Are New Things To Worry About </b></div>
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In place of the worries that come hand in hand with being a first-time parent come new stresses. The biggest for me was trying to get my head around bringing a new baby home. How was Eric going to take it? Would he feel left out? The Mum Guilt was so real and it took a long time to get the balancing act right. Both my boys are very lively and vivacious and sometimes keeping them both happy renders me exhausted by the time their bedtime rolls around. </div>
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I find myself focusing less on worrying about Ezra hitting 'milestones' and instead still tend to hone in on Eric. I think because he is my firstborn I'm waiting with bated breath for him to do things more. Whereas with Ezra - well, I just let him get on with things. It's nice to not be panicking over things he has or hasn't achieved but sometimes he will learn to do things so quickly that I need to make sure to stop and acknowledge them with the praise and delight they deserve too. </div>
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<b>3. Baby Comfort Is Key*</b></div>
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When it came to dressing Eric it was a definite learning curve trying to figure out the best items to have in his wardrobe and the ones that were just not worth bothering with. This time around and I consider myself a seasoned professional in the art of one-handed dressing and <b>I am very selective about what clothing pieces I decide to lay out for Ezra day-to-day</b>. </div>
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I, of course, want him to <b>look cute</b> but <b>comfort is also a major factor</b>. As the younger sibling, Ezra gets hauled around with us to all the toddler-friendly places that his older brother loves. He is in and out of car seats, prams, highchairs and does his fair share of playing, eating and exploring. His clothes need to ensure that he is able to move freely and bare the brunt of his everyday baby activities. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja68GgPGYBiZ10G12ol726v68kofpD4L6m-nR4bHGYt3vOi1R4X2sSKT2CBoA7FHeb7Oe3AgcGfMrX_UngeYtjHqyBv8CKrJKp-I34nNoSFxgplCLp-ipbXcoiK8xUwVhc328qmXmDVuW9/s1600/LC2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="baby wearing a blue and white outfit" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1173" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja68GgPGYBiZ10G12ol726v68kofpD4L6m-nR4bHGYt3vOi1R4X2sSKT2CBoA7FHeb7Oe3AgcGfMrX_UngeYtjHqyBv8CKrJKp-I34nNoSFxgplCLp-ipbXcoiK8xUwVhc328qmXmDVuW9/s640/LC2.jpg" title="" width="468" /></a><br />
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For a brand that combines the cute with the pretty and the practical then you really need to keep your eye on<b> La Coqueta's <a href="http://www.lacoquetakids.com/baby-0-months-3-years" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Spanish baby clothes</a></b>. Their <b><a href="https://www.lacoquetakids.com/shop-by/editors-pick/new-collection" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">latest collection</a> </b>is absolutely stunning and ideal to see your baby through from chilly Spring mornings to warm Summer evenings. They very kindly gifted us the Belladona Knitted Dungarees and I just want to dress Ezra in them every day. <b>Classic, simple in design and utterly versatile they will look gorgeous paired with vests, cardigans and t-shirts alike</b>. All I need is some sunnier weather to show up so I can style those dungarees up and you'd best get ready for some seriously adorable Instagram content. </div>
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As a brand, I know pieces from La Coqueta stand the test of time (I worked with them on a <b><a href="http://www.justadd-ginger.co.uk/2017/11/keeping-baby-busy-beating-winter-blues.html" target="_blank">post</a></b> two years ago and I still use the piece I was gifted <i>to this day</i>!) Bringing a little luxury into your baby's wardrobe their items are on the more premium side but in my eyes, they are well worth the investment. At a time where we need to be more conscious of fast fashion, you definitely get your cost per wear. </div>
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And I mean....just look how adorable Ezra looks in those little blue dungarees. Excuse me while my heart melts a little bit...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHDmfdEVzrom0cPudWxTODKTwwJhl1lOQ_0_8cO5DtKovqbUbFOfLqkfD2W5ABKfHHhz6oO6a4bN4QCJpPUc4k_7ZndHxmy-SpnP9IevDUK0z9wqzuI9I9vqfkbSIoYp3rGE21vd6bpGIl/s1600/LCIII.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="baby knelt on all fours and looking to camera" border="0" data-original-height="1136" data-original-width="1600" height="454" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHDmfdEVzrom0cPudWxTODKTwwJhl1lOQ_0_8cO5DtKovqbUbFOfLqkfD2W5ABKfHHhz6oO6a4bN4QCJpPUc4k_7ZndHxmy-SpnP9IevDUK0z9wqzuI9I9vqfkbSIoYp3rGE21vd6bpGIl/s640/LCIII.jpg" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>4. You Are A Lot More Confident </b></div>
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I used to be so nervous about what people would think of my unique parenting technique, but now I really couldn't care less. I have so much more faith in myself and my confidence as a Mum could not be higher. Yes, there are times where I feel a bit confused (we're in the middle of potty training Eric right now and I still don't know if I'm doing it right) but I have two beautiful boys who show me every day that as a parent I'm doing okay. </div>
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I've also become really open about the fact that I am a mum with a disability. I used to feel quite ashamed of that but now I'm empowered by it. On the one side, it makes me very vulnerable but on the other, it makes asking for help <i>so</i> much easier. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNVviAJmqW2bpuwk-lhJTsnvzKFRVJOkUVRDTt1jt_iFBukvlnuGyPgNfQEUN1dfw077RiUZlznb8SwMgkdjYHLwUmBpQCAEFpirh-e3Cq2u6a5fomKmVOeS1ur4eT5yDjk5LxybtdXvkx/s1600/IMG_1438.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="baby looking to camera and chewing a book" border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNVviAJmqW2bpuwk-lhJTsnvzKFRVJOkUVRDTt1jt_iFBukvlnuGyPgNfQEUN1dfw077RiUZlznb8SwMgkdjYHLwUmBpQCAEFpirh-e3Cq2u6a5fomKmVOeS1ur4eT5yDjk5LxybtdXvkx/s640/IMG_1438.jpg" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>5. Time Flies <i>So</i> Quickly </b></div>
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Now I thought time was going fast already, but throw a second child into the mix and it feels like the days just go by faster and faster. I honestly cannot believe I have a nearly 3-year-old and an 8-month-old. It feels like yesterday that I was still pregnant the first time around. </div>
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I really have to make a conscious effort to savour every moment. To take a step back and take in the boys, watch them grow and bond, see their personalities develop. Because before I know it they will be older, more independent and needing me less and less. They both learn new things every day and sometimes (especially with Eric) it makes me at the same time very happy and very sad that his baby days are coming to an end. Potty training is really the last step into full toddlerhood and I'm not sure I'm entirely prepared for that. </div>
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<b>So soak it all up - the good times and the trying times</b>. The times where you laugh and the times where you go off and have a cry in the toilet. Because it all really does go so fast and in the blink of an eye they are all grown up, with their own thoughts and ideas, and you are left watching in the wings in wonderment as your children step out on the start of their own life adventure. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDvU42Py3BhkhVMxTPZiix4rZJXeU3UqAug-K-ioPnpKKC6F3RMR67FFzO1TRkBHNzxFDK1KHC26jzuzcs-Whyx34A0lUyJ7JFNTIXJAd-PzpkoRQHN8WMOMZURXVMQscCc9NRnOkWsWNQ/s1600/new+sig.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="118" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDvU42Py3BhkhVMxTPZiix4rZJXeU3UqAug-K-ioPnpKKC6F3RMR67FFzO1TRkBHNzxFDK1KHC26jzuzcs-Whyx34A0lUyJ7JFNTIXJAd-PzpkoRQHN8WMOMZURXVMQscCc9NRnOkWsWNQ/s320/new+sig.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<i style="caret-color: rgb(102, 102, 102); color: #666666; font-family: Molengo; font-size: 15.399999618530273px; text-align: center;">*I was very kindly gifted the Belladona dungarees from La Coqueta to review. I have also worked with the brand on a previous post. This does not affect my opinions. They are always 100% honest and guided by my own personal experiences.</i></div>
Gingerjaxxhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00442902807148779977noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1229204795675051737.post-52899654957623166062019-09-01T18:38:00.000+01:002019-09-13T06:56:58.994+01:00Getting Eric Ready Big Brother Ready* | Just Add Ginger<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<i>AD // Gifted</i></div>
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When I was pregnant <b>one of my biggest concerns was that Eric didn't really understand what was going on.</b> He didn't really start speaking until after his second birthday (which was causing me a lot of stress in itself) and could only say singular words at a time. And as much as we would encourage him to touch my bump and would talk about the fact that he was going to be a big brother all he would really do would be to pull my top down and want to go and play with his toys. </div>
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<b>It wasn't until he met</b> <b><a href="https://www.baby-annabell.com/en/baby-annabell/products/baby-annabell-36cm/?tx_annabellproducts_pi1%5Bpn%5D=702567&cHash=adeee49746fdaab66b44557ab32854ec" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Little Alexander</a> that we started to notice a shift</b>. Although a little back we had been gifted the Baby Annabel Learns To Walk (find out more about her in <b><a href="http://www.justadd-ginger.co.uk/2017/12/busting-baby-milestone-myths-just-add.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">this post</a></b>) I think that because she was a doll that actually <i>did </i>something the concept of role play was lost on Eric. However he really started to take an active interest in Alexander and it was through play that things started to click.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh61X20KT6-RhppuJ2fAQkzDhwNqquj2LqVsnb1T7WF-bJ25mDQhuT8dZe-gslEYut8mE9m6dt_qsGCfPgMLBaMvW4k5cYIA20cijDIYscYaMFyDCCXeFwItYGSedWhj0MC218-fvYNHBVi/s1600/C7488D19-9A8E-4E3A-B4BE-5B49C35CE645.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="image shows a young boy playing with a baby doll. " border="0" data-original-height="1077" data-original-width="1077" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh61X20KT6-RhppuJ2fAQkzDhwNqquj2LqVsnb1T7WF-bJ25mDQhuT8dZe-gslEYut8mE9m6dt_qsGCfPgMLBaMvW4k5cYIA20cijDIYscYaMFyDCCXeFwItYGSedWhj0MC218-fvYNHBVi/s640/C7488D19-9A8E-4E3A-B4BE-5B49C35CE645.JPG" title="" width="638" /></a></div>
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Okay so he still didn't understand that there was going to be a new baby coming to live with us or that he was going to take on a new role and that the family dynamic was changing but what did happen was that <b>his nurturing side really came out.</b> He started to care for Alexander and act out how to look after a baby on him. The doll comes with detachable clothes and a plastic bottle and he would pretend to feed his baby and take an interest in changing his nappy (we did this using one of Ezra's) and wanting to dress him in other clothes (again some of Ezra's were borrowed for this). </div>
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With a soft body and plastic head, hands and legs <b>Little Alexander makes the ideal baby doll </b>for our sometimes heavy handed Eric too. Because even though Ezra is now here, Eric is still showing a lot of interest in his dolls. And whereas some I am nervous for him to play with around a newborn (you just don't know where a toy will land if it gets thrown) I'll happily keep Alexander out all the time.</div>
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I think having a doll has given Eric an increased sense of importance. If either Ryan or I need to feed Ezra, wind him or show him a bit of attention then Eric will often replicate that behaviour through his play. He also likes to direct his baby to do other things like sitting him up in a chair to watch TV, offering him different foods or finding him somewhere to sleep. And<b> it's been amazing to watch this loving and caring side towards others flourish</b>. </div>
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Whether your child is about to get a new sibling or not I absolutely recommend Little Alexander. He makes the ideal doll for tiny hands and helps enhance role play. He just comes with the bottle at the 36cm size but if you want to there are accessory sets available (although from what I have seen no extra outfits which is a shame). Even though we were gifted the doll with the amount Eric has played with it I wouldn't think twice about purchasing it. It's helping him learn about caring for babies, teaching him how to use his 'gentle hands' and above all he absolutes loves it...and that's enough for me!</div>
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<i style="caret-color: rgb(102, 102, 102); color: #666666; font-family: Molengo; font-size: 15.399999618530273px; text-align: center;">*I was very kindly gifted a Little Alexander doll to review. This does not affect my opinions. They are always 100% honest and guided by my own personal experiences. </i></div>
Gingerjaxxhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00442902807148779977noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1229204795675051737.post-38025979241743073752019-08-26T10:28:00.002+01:002019-08-28T10:07:04.396+01:00And Then There Were Four... | Just Add Ginger<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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When I was pregnant this time round I was <i>convinced </i>the baby would come early. Eric was born at 40+6 and in my head, knowing that second babies could arrive sooner meant that this one was destined to fit that mould. </div>
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However, when I hit 40+6 this time I had started to lose faith that this baby was<i> ever</i> going to arrive. I was so fed up that my decision to wait things out until he was ready had gone out the window and all I wanted was him to get the bloody hell out of me.</div>
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<b>Ezra William Everest entered this world on 23rd July 2019</b> at 6.22am at 41+1 weeks. He was a pink and cuddly 8lbs 9oz chunk, born at home on our sofa after a labour that lasted about 24 hours (latent and active). Everything got a bit chaotic just before he was born because I was convinced I needed to go to hospital for more pain relief but after a few moments of calm he appeared after just a couple of pushes <b>(I honestly thought I was just having a poo</b>)!</div>
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<b>It was so hard keeping his name a secret but I love it so much I didn't want anyone to spoil it.</b> It's very much a 'me' name. And after a while of hating every name I heard I wanted to hold his close to my chest until he was actually here: </div>
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<i><b>Ezra </b></i>is a name both Ryan and I loved. I know it's a really popular name at the moment but I've only ever known one other Ezra so I loved how unique it sounded. It also complemented Eric's name really well and they just roll off the tongue really easily. I can just picture them in the future being thick as thieves and off playing together outside with me shouting down the garden "Eric, Ezra...it's dinner time...."</div>
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<i><b>William</b></i> is a family name from my side that I wanted to use in the memory of my great uncle who passed away a few years ago. I liked all the soft sounds and how melodic and rhythmic it made his full name sound too - like he might grow up to be an artiste of some kind one day.</div>
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<i><b>Everest </b></i>was the part of baby's name that <b>I was so scared people would judge</b>. I don't know of anyone who has used it or has it as a name but I think it is just beautiful. Both Ryan and I love the great outdoors, and I just couldn't help but think what a stunning name it would make. We were going to use something else as his second middle name but one day I was listening to the Everest soundtrack in the shower and realised I would be devastated if we didn't get to use it. </div>
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It's taken a while for me to settle into our brand new family dynamic (with two children under three life never seems to stop) but we are slowly getting there, hence my lack of content over the past month or so. Finding time for everything is tricky and often you need to decide what is more important to you - food, sleep or a wee - but I'm ready to start getting back on track. </div>
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So be prepared for a lot more mummy-related content both here and on my <b><a href="http://www.youtube.com/JustAddGinger" target="_blank">YouTube channel</a></b>. I won't be committing myself to my usual schedule just yet but I have lots of plans for future posts. But without Ezra having a routine just yet, I never know what time I have to play around with! </div>
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Here's to the next chapter....I have a feeling it's going to be a crazy one (in the best sense of the word)!</div>
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Gingerjaxxhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00442902807148779977noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1229204795675051737.post-47418727319935101662019-06-13T17:30:00.000+01:002019-06-14T08:41:57.636+01:00My Current Daily Routine With My Two Year Old Just Add Ginger<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Becoming a stay at home mum was a <i>big</i> adjustment for me. I worked with children in the past but it was only once I had found my feet as a parent that I realised that being at home with a baby 24/7 was bloody hard work. </div>
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It took me a while to find my rhythm. <b>Eric has never been one for a strict routine</b> so things chop and change all the time and have kept me on my toes. However, lately I finally feel like we have established a good little daily routine that means we both get the most out of our day whilst still being completely flexible. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb5afPCPcYwGEtjJgTvaDvWV3qquAKEx1YbjQvBqtnUDM482lJfBdjbqQ1QY7TTPI-yKlYjlnUc0WEiJG94OFyqmIDnoKRR2VqFIcUeU-Uh722nvPqPkxojic-wjc2vz0ckB2Hur0nAdyk/s1600/OConnors+%252848%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="image shows a toddler boy lying on his back in the woods and looking to camera" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb5afPCPcYwGEtjJgTvaDvWV3qquAKEx1YbjQvBqtnUDM482lJfBdjbqQ1QY7TTPI-yKlYjlnUc0WEiJG94OFyqmIDnoKRR2VqFIcUeU-Uh722nvPqPkxojic-wjc2vz0ckB2Hur0nAdyk/s640/OConnors+%252848%2529.jpg" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
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Now I'm by no means a mum expert, but because it did take me so long to find something that worked I wanted to share what we currently do. We are about to go through a big life adjustment with the new baby coming <b>so now more than ever it is <i>imperative</i> that Eric is settled, and knows what he is doing</b>. </div>
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I should also say that<b> whatever we are doing let Eric know. I talk him through what the plan is as and when it happens so that he isn't left confused</b>. He may only just be exploring his words but <b>I never underestimate his understanding.</b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipj6sxkH3nQ6Dnc1TQFGNjESkuM-TKg7a77EXx5-mUnJTqawMFFplN95vtlMDG9jw5_gVWt5sIQg5L5t1lV1EcN9TGa5LqPdDaWsI6ovijybBYNBCkxLfFVijiGRZrXJSX1wZKweNJ3jS9/s1600/OConnors+%252846%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="image shows a mother and toddler son walking through the woods in autumn. They are dressed in warm clothes." border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipj6sxkH3nQ6Dnc1TQFGNjESkuM-TKg7a77EXx5-mUnJTqawMFFplN95vtlMDG9jw5_gVWt5sIQg5L5t1lV1EcN9TGa5LqPdDaWsI6ovijybBYNBCkxLfFVijiGRZrXJSX1wZKweNJ3jS9/s640/OConnors+%252846%2529.jpg" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>Morning: </b>The time Eric wakes up everyday does vary and I don't make him keep a strict wake up time because he does occasionally still wake up and stir during the night. So the time he does get up in the morning is a pretty wide window between <b>6am-7.30pm</b>.</div>
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As soon as I go in to get Eric I gauge his mood. Sometimes he wakes up starving and grumpy and other times he is in a pretty good mood so I can get him dressed before breakfast (I always do this step first on a Monday and Thursday because Eric goes to the childminder. </div>
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Breakfast for Eric usually consists of the same thing everyday (check out my post about what he tends to eat <a href="http://www.justadd-ginger.co.uk/2019/05/what-my-toddler-eats-in-a-day-just-add.html" target="_blank">here</a>). He eats in his highchair (which is now a toddler table) and <b>I will put on a Julia Donaldson animated short for him to watch. This gives me time to drink a lukewarm coffee and grab some breakfast. </b></div>
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<b>After breakfast</b> and a nappy change / getting dressed <b>we will either head out somewhere or </b>(if the weather is dry) <b>go into the garden for some play</b>. I am a big fan of free play so leave the patio door open so we can go in and out as we please. </div>
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Then, <b>around 3.5-4 hours later </b>(usually around 10.30 - 11am) <b>it's time for biscuits and bed</b>. Eric will go to the kitchen to find his biscuit and he knows that means we are going upstairs for stories and nap. He walks up the stairs, puts his biscuit on the bed, then I lift him in and he will "tell" me what stories he wants to listen to.</div>
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If he's in the mood to sleep, <b>a nap will last about two hours</b>, although this is Eric we're talking about, so sometimes it barely lasts two minutes! </div>
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<b>While he sleeps I try and nap, then I'll sort out the dishwasher, grab a snack, watch some trash TV and enjoy the peace.</b></div>
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<b>Afternoon: </b>When Eric wakes up I tend to seize the opportunity to <b>give him a bath</b>. We throw in lots of toys, make loads of bubbles and he has some water play and a wash. I'm not going to lie - doing this means I can have a wee (or poo) and brush my teeth if I haven't been able to that morning. I dry him off and put his nappy on in the bathroom and they we are on the build up to his lunch.</div>
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One of Eric's favourite things to do after a bath is to run into our bedroom, jump on the bed and then potter around with our books or my makeup and jewellery. He thinks it's hilarious. When I finally coax him out I get him dressed in his bedroom and then we'll head downstairs. </div>
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<b>While Eric has his lunch I'll have mine.</b> I will put on something for him to watch (at the moment it's usually Baby Shark or some of the Simple Songs episodes on Amazon Prime) and then it's play time, a class, or I try to take him out somewhere again. </div>
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Being as pregnant as I am right now I'm not always in the mood to go out (the tiredness hits me around 3pm) so I do have to admit defeat and have a movie afternoon with him where he will watch the film, colour in and play with his toys. He seems happy to do this sometimes but if he does want to go outside again he will let me know bring me his coat and shoes as a cue.</div>
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<b>Evening: </b>Dinner time for Eric (if he has it) is in between 4.15-5.30pm depending on how the day has panned out. <b>I will cook for Eric and tidy round the living room, putting away toys, folding clothes and generally making it a more grown up space ready for when he goes to bed</b>. </div>
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Eric isn't the best at tidying but <b>will help by taking any nappy sacks to the bin for me. And if I need to finish off the dishwasher he will pass clean plates, bowls and cutlery to me so I can put them away</b>. Then I clean up around the living room and hallway as and when it is needed or attempt to put some washing on / collect it from the line or dryer and fold it up ready to go upstairs. </div>
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Ryan usually is home for around 7pm (on a good day) so he does the bedtime routine. If not, I treat Eric to a biscuit so I can get him up the stairs again for bed. He's not the biggest fan of going to sleep at night and will protest so whatever gets him in the mood to walk up the stairs works for me. </div>
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<b>Mondays & Thursdays: </b>Eric goes to the childminder twice a week so <b>on those days I try and get housework done as well as having time for myself</b>. We do have a cleaner now who comes bi-weekly which has taken some of the pressure off me but I save up any big errands, cleaning or creative work until Eric is out the house so I can concentrate on it fully.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDvU42Py3BhkhVMxTPZiix4rZJXeU3UqAug-K-ioPnpKKC6F3RMR67FFzO1TRkBHNzxFDK1KHC26jzuzcs-Whyx34A0lUyJ7JFNTIXJAd-PzpkoRQHN8WMOMZURXVMQscCc9NRnOkWsWNQ/s1600/new+sig.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="118" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDvU42Py3BhkhVMxTPZiix4rZJXeU3UqAug-K-ioPnpKKC6F3RMR67FFzO1TRkBHNzxFDK1KHC26jzuzcs-Whyx34A0lUyJ7JFNTIXJAd-PzpkoRQHN8WMOMZURXVMQscCc9NRnOkWsWNQ/s320/new+sig.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Images: Rachel Clarke Photography</i></span></div>
Gingerjaxxhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00442902807148779977noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1229204795675051737.post-62488990230123582632019-06-10T12:30:00.000+01:002019-06-10T13:14:33.666+01:00Empowered Bumps The Practical Birth Partner Workshop | Just Add Ginger<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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I have been trying to look at pregnancy so differently this time round. I've been taking things a lot more in my stride, been trying to keep calm and do as much research I can into techniques I can implement during both my pregnancy and labour to stop me panicking and getting too stressed. </div>
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I first heard about Jenie and <b><a href="https://empoweredbumps.co.uk/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Empowered Bumps Hypnobirthing</a></b> through <b><a href="http://www.codiekinz.co.uk/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Codie</a></b> and for a long time really wanted to attend one of her pregnancy relaxation classes. But with Ryan's sometimes erratic and unpredictable work schedule and the distance I'd have to travel to get to the class I soon realised that it just wasn't going to be possible. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCdTZvRQVvftmCWLdUl7oJB_pBqajSRl5zohfxR5MfaKmylA8kzgn9Bmu_S_cDgXP8dc6v1H4up8G7X-hj0X4zlQxvkcrVi0BIhAihxFWlAo1VxHjVe_JFa8P9P5mFF2Y3jiTCYYox8Cnh/s1600/pbp+I.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="image shows a birth affirmation card and range of arts and crafts objects" border="0" data-original-height="886" data-original-width="1600" height="354" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCdTZvRQVvftmCWLdUl7oJB_pBqajSRl5zohfxR5MfaKmylA8kzgn9Bmu_S_cDgXP8dc6v1H4up8G7X-hj0X4zlQxvkcrVi0BIhAihxFWlAo1VxHjVe_JFa8P9P5mFF2Y3jiTCYYox8Cnh/s640/pbp+I.jpg" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
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However, <b>The Practical Birth Partners Workshop</b> was definitely something I wanted to take us both to if I could. With us planning a home birth I thought it was really important for both Ryan and I to learn some new strategies to help me manage my own discomfort and to help me stay as focused and relaxed as possible to keep me motivated and feeling positive. </div>
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So with Eric safe and happy elsewhere, Ryan and I got in the car and set off to the workshop which was run from <b><a href="https://www.babybearmassage.com/baby-bear-s-den" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Baby Bear's Den</a> </b>in Crosby - a newly opened space set in the grounds of a nursery that runs classes for pregnancy, babies and families too. It's a hub that I feel has been desperately needed in our area and it was the perfect place for the workshop to be set. </div>
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Light, bright and airy, there was an immediate feeling of tranquillity that hit you as you entered the room. A small seating area was set up next to sets of yoga mats, birth balls, an inflated birthing pool and beautiful affirmation boards and bunting. <b>Everything just felt so serene and instantly set the tone for what the class was going to entail</b>. </div>
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Joined by two other couples we first all sat down and introduced ourselves before Jenie did a little introduction and we started some initial activities. All of us had different stories and were there for different reasons but <b>it was nice knowing we were all on the same journey and there to support each other</b>. I didn't feel embarrassed or ashamed at any point during the day and I think a lot of that I can attribute to the other attendees who were there. </div>
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The workshop was a combination of guided learning, practical relaxation techniques and conversations that touched on birth preferences, the role of the birth partner and our rights as expectant mothers / fathers and ways we can empower ourselves to hopefully help achieve the birth experience we want. </div>
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What I loved about the workshop is that<b> I got to practise techniques I had heard and read about in a guided class environment.</b> It's one thing seeing something on paper but it's a completely other thing actually giving them a go and knowing you are doing them right. I really respond to that style of learning - I like to be supported. </div>
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It was also brilliant learning new things. Things that I wouldn't have had a clue about had it not been for the workshop. <b>Rebozo, different styles of massage and new breathing techniques...all of these Ryan and I now have in our 'toolkit' ready to pull out during labour should we need them</b>. And all of them fully adaptable and workable around my disability.</div>
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<b>The workshop also gave Ryan more of an active role to play</b>. He has been so focused on sorting out the birthing pool but now he has more to do. He's not the type to show when he is scared or nervous but I know there is a strong chance that during labour he will be so n<b>ow he has a lot more he can draw on to direct his thoughts should they start to deviate.</b> </div>
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<b>Jenie was an incredibly charismatic and approachable class leader.</b> She was easy to talk to, relatable and didn't at any point preach to us. The class was 4 hours long but with her leading us the time absolutely flew by and I was a little bit gutted when it all was over because<b> she made it so enjoyable!</b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3ZOM1qsfOcGOLsRxu5ZWx69WXHmR6p7mJcvxa9Y6EfhKrHXGtFKEt2AdURZ-s8EXiaGjRl2r2rGU9d0GPoSx4FRmUivsHsLqxRVKlbHKhjB4CeoyioBRFHlg-jrpjANxCLWTFZf7jCUtc/s1600/pbp+II.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="image shows two hand painted positive birth images" border="0" data-original-height="1256" data-original-width="1600" height="502" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3ZOM1qsfOcGOLsRxu5ZWx69WXHmR6p7mJcvxa9Y6EfhKrHXGtFKEt2AdURZ-s8EXiaGjRl2r2rGU9d0GPoSx4FRmUivsHsLqxRVKlbHKhjB4CeoyioBRFHlg-jrpjANxCLWTFZf7jCUtc/s640/pbp+II.jpg" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
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Self care as a pregnant person is so important and I felt like - for the first time in a while - like I was really doing something for myself. Especially as someone who has and does struggle with anxious thoughts. <b>I now feel like I am really doing myself justice and putting things in place to support myself in the lead up to welcoming this baby</b>.</div>
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The workshop really resonated with Ryan to - so much so that he has suggested we book on for the <b>Empowered Bumps Intensive Hypnobirthing</b> course. It's making me feel so excited that he is fully on board with what I want and I know that <b>the workshop has really helped him feel secure in his role as my birth partner</b>.</div>
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If you are in the Liverpool area and want to learn more about hypnobirthing, Jenie, or any of the services she offers, definitely check out the <b><a href="https://empoweredbumps.co.uk/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Empowered Bumps</a></b> website. You can tell she is incredibly passionate and dedicated about what she does and as someone who does get a bit nervous thinking about birth, attending her workshop has really helped me feel more empowered than ever! </div>
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Gingerjaxxhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00442902807148779977noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1229204795675051737.post-20118057075810387852019-06-06T12:30:00.000+01:002019-06-06T12:30:03.655+01:00Baby Names We Loved (But Aren't Using) | Just Add Ginger<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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For a really long time, <b>trying to think about our baby's name was one of the most difficult tasks</b>. As soon as we thought we had found a name a day or so later I would go off it and we would be right back at square one. When I was expecting Eric we already knew what his name was going to be so it was less of a stress, but <b>I think naming a second baby is much more difficult because you need something that complements your first child.</b></div>
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<b>Little One has a name now</b> that I am 99.99% sure isn't going to change (I feel it in my bones that this is his name) however once I had gotten over disliking all the names we did have a list of both boys and girls names either both of us really liked and were thinking of using, or ones that I was trying to convince Ryan to like so that we could possibly use them.</div>
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I found trying to come up with boys names a lot more difficult than girls. Deep down I knew this baby was a boy even before we found out but because I had quite a few girls names that I had decided on before, coming up with a new list of boy names was always going to be a little bit more tricky.</div>
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<b>Arthur: </b>This is <b>a family name</b> on both mine and Ryan's sides and it was a pretty strong contender at one stage. However I just didn't think the name suited us as parents. Arthur is obviously very traditional and I didn't like the abbreviations of it (Art, Artie) should we want to shorten it to a pet name. I know it's grown in popularity over the past few years but <b>it felt a little bit <i>too</i> vintage for us.</b></div>
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<b>Hugo: </b>This name was on my list before we knew Eric was on the way and<b> I do still really like it</b>. However, <b>it has also been on my list of names I would call a dog and the association I have in my head of a little cavalier King Charles or Labrador called Hugo running round is just too strong</b>. I think the name itself is gorgeous but I just don't think I could use it for a child (I'm still keeping it on the table for future pets though)!</div>
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<b>Ernie: </b>Again, this is <b>a family name that I absolutely <i>love</i></b>. But Ryan really wasn't sure. Whereas I thought it was adorable picturing a little Eric and Ernie running around, Ryan could only think of Morcambe and Wise!</div>
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<b>Fox: </b>This was one of our middle name ideas and <b>we both really, really liked it.</b> For a good long while this was going to be the baby's middle name. The only reason we didn't go for it is because <b>there was a name we loved so much more</b> and one day I decided that if we didn't use this certain name and didn't go on to have more babies I would be devastated.</div>
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<b>Floyd: </b>Again <b>this was a contender for a middle name</b>. Ryan is a huge Pink Floyd fan so the fit was perfect. And even though I was the one who initially suggested it, <b>I soon went off the idea because I think it's much more of a dog name than a baby name</b>.</div>
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<b><u>Girls </u></b></div>
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I have said this over and over again but in my heart <b>I know I'm so much more of a boy mum than a girl mum</b>. Don't get me wrong I'd love to have a daughter one day but I honestly don't think it's going to happen. So with that in mind, <b>thinking of girl names is my guiltiest pleasure</b>. There were so many I liked last time (you can check out the baby name video I made then <b><a href="https://youtu.be/TZIRpkQdEY0" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">here</a></b>) so I took some from that list and a few more were added once Ryan and I started talking about names again.</div>
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<b>Annabelle: </b>If this baby had been a girl, <b>this would have been his name</b>. I think Annabelle is just so pretty and girly and I love the way you can shorten it to Anna, Belle or Annie. I'm not discounting it for future children so it's still very much on the table.</div>
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<b>Margeary: </b>This would have been <b>in memory of my grandma</b> (although we updated the spelling after watching Game of Thrones) and it was one of my top choices for a while with the idea that I would have shortened it to Gigi. However<b> I much prefer it as a middle name</b>. Like with Arthur I don't feel it's a first name that naturally suits us. Also - every time I'd say it it didn't quite fit (I think it's because it ends in a y which sounds a bit clunky with our surname). </div>
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<b>Arya: </b>Half <b>inspired by Game of Thrones </b>and half because it has been so popular the last few years both Ryan and I loved this name. It's pretty but powerful (we especially associate it with power after GOT season 8)! It was only bumped off the list of potential names because I was so set on using Annabelle and it's definitely a name choice I'd pull out again for if we go on to have another baby.</div>
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<b>Erin / Eireann: </b>Ryan really liked the idea of Erin (or the Irish version Eireann) but <b>for me it's too much of an association with the famous model.</b> I also think that<b> Eric and Erin just sound too similar</b> and it might get a bit confusing for both them, us, and anyone else who would be using their names.</div>
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<b>Ophelia: </b>This was on my previous list and <b>I still love it to this day</b>. It's a quirky name that's a little bit unique but has literary connotations to the Shakespearean character. <b>It's still high on our list of name options so I'm not discounting it </b>but I don't think I'll get to use it purely because I think if we do have another baby down the line it is going to be another boy.</div>
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What baby names do you love? </div>
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Gingerjaxxhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00442902807148779977noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1229204795675051737.post-21219060887407579552019-05-30T12:30:00.000+01:002019-05-30T12:57:39.423+01:00Mummyhood, Mental Health & Me | Just Add Ginger<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<b>Becoming a mother for the first time</b> was a massive rollercoaster for me. Not only was it daunting, exhilarating and exciting beyond measure, but <b>it really took its toll on my mental health and led me to experience one of the darkest times in my life so far.</b></div>
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I have always been a bit of a worrier but in the first few months of Eric's life I felt like I was going crazy with it. <b>Consumed daily by anxious thoughts, compulsive behaviour and feeling completely out of control, every day was overrun by negativity at a time when I should have been elated</b>. It was a long and bumpy road to recovery but I finally turned a corner in the Autumn of 2017 - right around the time Eric was six months old. (If you want to know the full story I made a <b><a href="https://youtu.be/fIObr73wQ0o" target="_blank">YouTube video</a></b> all about it which goes into a lot more detail).</div>
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And since then I've only been getting stronger. I am more open about my feelings (not looking for sympathy, but more so that I'm doing myself justice), I am able to stay calmer and more rational thanks to techniques I learnt at CBT, and I feel for the first time in a long time that I am myself again.</div>
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However,<b> it's not always great</b>. Especially at the moment. Up until a week or so ago I was doing brilliantly, but my worries and anxieties don't care about timing, and at the moment I've been having more fretful moments</div>
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I've had such a different, more positive experience of being pregnant this time but it is really starting to take its toll on me physically and that in itself is affecting how I feel mentally. Lack of sleep combined with long days, a toddler who is currently residing right in the middle of Tantrumville, aches and pains, Braxton Hicks and massive mood swings and I'm just all over the place. </div>
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I know part of it is something that just happens during pregnancy. With hormones raging it's only natural I feel a bit out of control of how I feel. But it's not just that. </div>
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<b>This time of year is a massive trigger for me in itself. This is when everything started for me the first time and I think I associate warmer weather too much with the start of my descent into that dark place</b>. So as much as it's amazing to be expecting a baby it is also really, really difficult. </div>
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I am having to be so careful with how I go about my day. I don't want to do anything that will cause me to slip. And that's hard because a lot of my coping strategies revolve around avoidance and with social media being pretty much inescapable and uncontrollable that isn't always easy. </div>
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<b> My worries are completely irrational too</b>. They spring up out of something I usually see online and then just stick. For example (and I cannot believe I'm admitting this in a blog post) the other day I decided I had Lyme disease. For no reason. I just decided I had it. <b>That's how unpredictable and somewhat ridiculous my mind can be.</b> These thoughts appear and just make no sense although to be, they are the absolute be all and end all. </div>
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And naturally when I start to feel anxious trying to not be upset in front of Eric is incredibly difficult. Because he is just too young to understand. But it happens. I just can't control it. I cry and cry and cry and he has to see it happen. Thankfully he's pretty laid back so he hasn't gotten upset at the same time but still...<b>it does make me feel like a bit of a Mum failure.</b> </div>
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<b>I'm doing all I can to prepare for labour and birth so that I am calm and relaxed</b>. With control being a big factor in the direction of my thoughts if there's something I can organise I will. I'm <b>planning a home birth</b>, have been <b><a href="http://www.justadd-ginger.co.uk/2019/05/learning-hypnobirthing-at-home-just-add.html" target="_blank">practising hypnobirthing </a></b>and have called on lots of local friends to be on my<b> 'Labour Tree'</b> should I be by myself and need help. I'm also hoping to start going to a pregnancy relaxation class. </div>
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And <b>whereas I isolated myself when I was feeling so bad last time I'm now reaching out</b>. I've admitted to myself that I have been struggling and am trying my best to surround myself with love. I'm getting in touch with friends and trying to arrange regular catch ups so that I don't feel alone. Getting back into creating content has also really helped because my mind is occupied and I am less inclined to let the negative thoughts work their way in.</div>
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But as much as I'm trying to be social<b> I am also valuing my privacy</b>. I'm not sharing lots about my pregnancy online and am even being quite reserved when it comes to friends and family. My midwife appointments are for me only and I keep it that way. If there are any issues I will tell people but otherwise it's my business and mine alone. Bump shots are kept to a minimum as are scan photos and videos. I'm just not putting that pressure on myself this time. <b>I'm enjoying this journey for exactly what it should be...mine.</b></div>
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So that's where I'm up to at the moment. <b>A lot of days are wonderful but some days are utterly shit and everything gets too much</b>. But that's okay. It's only natural. And I'm embracing that fact. </div>
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I can't imagine being a mum of two and just knowing how it's going to work is daunting in itself. I can't plan for it. I'm not in control. So it's no wonder these feelings are filtering back in - I may just be <b>misplacing those feelings of anxiety over this big life change and putting them on something else</b>. </div>
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I don't know how things are going to change in the next few months. Nobody can say. But I really do feel that I'm helping myself by opening up about my struggles so fingers crossed I've already set myself on a better path.</div>
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Gingerjaxxhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00442902807148779977noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1229204795675051737.post-19814285389356899322019-05-26T12:30:00.000+01:002019-05-26T12:30:08.553+01:00Learning Hypnobirthing At Home* | Just Add Ginger<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<i>AD // Gifted product (*)</i></div>
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When I was pregnant with Eric I read a book on hypnobirthing but I never really followed through on anything it said. It came with accompanying tracks which I would listen to and they would send me to sleep but when it came to labour I think I was just too scared for anything to resonate. </div>
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This time round things are <i>very</i> different and<b> hypnobirthing has played a big part in helping me keep focused and relaxed.</b> I don't even really know how I rediscovered it. I think there have been quite a few people over the past couple of years talking about it and the idea must have stuck. With my determination to have a calmer pregnancy I became hyper aware of any resources or recommendations that were mentioned and it just went from there.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ2GzsL0UA7_uWSy13iYr07odtjkymwougxKAHwuQME7EVlKSRM9ap9U0Q62b-WXJO-yHl29IFd9Nq-6xp7mamOvvas0DukmNGkQqkyfjbONmNmM9zWaUOcBx8WqFrH4DaChn5RQMITWNG/s1600/hypno.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="image shows a flat lay of red roses, a book on hypnobirthing and three birth affirmation cards" border="0" data-original-height="1112" data-original-width="1600" height="444" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ2GzsL0UA7_uWSy13iYr07odtjkymwougxKAHwuQME7EVlKSRM9ap9U0Q62b-WXJO-yHl29IFd9Nq-6xp7mamOvvas0DukmNGkQqkyfjbONmNmM9zWaUOcBx8WqFrH4DaChn5RQMITWNG/s640/hypno.jpg" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>I made the decision to learn about hypnobirthing at home rather than on a course so that I could take things at my own speed</b>. I wanted Ryan as my birth partner to be fully on board and with his work hours not always being consistent, the 'at home' approach just made more sense. </div>
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So with all that being said, here are the <b>three main resources I have been using to help educate myself when it comes to hypnobirthing.</b> So if you are wanting to know more about the whole thing or are looking for a place to start, I can honestly say that all three of <b>these resources have revolutionised the way I think about pregnancy, labour and birth, have made me really appreciate my body in a whole new way, and are making me really look forward to the experience of pushing this baby out.</b></div>
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<b>The Positive Birth Company Digital Pack - </b>I jumped on the chance to invest in this the minute I saw that there was a special offer running a few months back. And it was by far the best impulsive decision I've made. </div>
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<b>The pack is broken down into 43 videos which cover a range of topics - from the science of hypnobirthing right the way through to relaxation techniques</b>. And<b> everything makes so much sense!</b> I would watch a couple of videos every night before I went to bed or in the morning when I would first wake up and they are really easy and enjoyable to watch. </div>
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You have access to the course for 12 months after you purchase it and the pack comes with other resources too (MP3s, a course booklet, birth preferences template and more) so you are getting <i>a lot </i>much bang for your buck. </div>
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<b>'Make Your Birth Better' by Siobhan Miller - </b>Off the back of investing in the digital pack I decided to buy Siobhan Miller's (founder of The Positive Birth Company) book. Watching videos was great and so easy to digest but I also wanted something I could read through to accompany all the information I was being given. </div>
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I am halfway through the book at the moment and <b>like with the digital pack, it is really resonating with me</b>. It's full of tools and techniques you can apply during labour and delivery and also has positive birth stories from real mums with different birth experiences that all illustrate how well hypnobirthing has worked for them. </div>
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<b>It's a really inspiring book to reference, especially if I find myself second guessing my abilities or if I feel my confidence waning. </b></div>
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I would say that the digital pack has worked slightly better for me (I think it's because I'm more of a visual learner), but the book complements and reinforces everything the course teaches you so combined the two are great for keeping your spirits and your motivation up!</div>
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<b>I Can Do This Studio Birth Affirmation Cards* - </b>I was very kindly gifted a set of birth affirmation cards by Hannah at <b><a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/ICanDoThisStudio?ref=shop_sugg" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">I Can Do This Studio</a></b> and they have been the perfect addition to my hypnobirthing education. <b>The cards themselves are beautiful and all the phrases are really empowering ands uplifting to read.</b> </div>
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I keep the majority of the cards hung up on the wall by my side of the bed so that they are the first thing I see when I wake up and the last thing I see before I go to bed. I also keep one perched on the mirror in our living room (I spend quite a lot of time in that part of the house so it made sense to have one there). </div>
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At times when I do feel my confidence slipping or I need a little reminder of how strong I am I look at them and repeat the phrases a few times in my head. This is normal enough to get me back on the straight and narrow. </div>
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<b>I think the affirmation cards will be incredibly helpful during labour and the birth</b> (Ryan can read them to me if I can't do it myself) but even now in the lead up to the big day having them in my periphery at all times is enough for them to start embedding themselves in my subconscious. </div>
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<b>During labour I'm planning on having the affirmation cards displayed downstairs in the living room sitting in between some little tea lights</b> I've bought. Even just being able to spot the outline of them out of the corner of my eye should be enough to prompt the positive feelings they are already evoking in my mind and fingers crossed help keep my spirits up if I am starting to panic.</div>
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<b>My Hypnobirthing Playlist - </b>A random fact you may not know is that Eric was born as a song from The Rocky Horror Picture Show was playing (Hot Patootie (Bless My Soul) for anyone who is curious). When it came to compiling my birth playlist back then I wanted upbeat and motivating tracks that I could dance, sing and ultimately push to. </div>
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But this time I've changed my mind. Hypnobirthing touches on using visualisations during labour so I've taken that idea and used it when finding tracks that I will want to listen to. </div>
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Everything I have chosen evokes a memory, creates a mental image or is from something that makes me feel really relaxed. Every song or piece of music is calming and soothing and it is my hope that when my surges begin, instead of being scared and stressed, listening to the playlist will help me stay focused and remember to breathe</div>
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Gingerjaxxhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00442902807148779977noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1229204795675051737.post-12347954556653409172019-05-23T12:30:00.000+01:002019-05-23T12:30:01.465+01:00What My (Fussy) Toddler Eats | Just Add Ginger<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Up to a point, Eric was a really good little eater. He would try lots of foods and didn't really turn a lot down (except avocado, which I still haven't come to terms with). However, on the lead up to him turning two that <i>completely</i> changed and my once adventurous toddler became the fussiest, pickiest little thing and I just wasn't prepared!</div>
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It's gotten to a point where I just am having to wing it - which is pretty much the story of my life when it comes to motherhood anyway. I've gotten some advice from the lady who did Eric's two year review which I am trying to make work, but when it comes to meals, it's literally a guessing game as to whether he's going to eat what you put in front of him every single time. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ9iQu605YoIZ7V0OJPTs3m5KwJfhTATBECKd87Liq5SAeSZaKJE6fJ_WZTJ6dRg3THai-cy5sZBeYM54ABdqXMI18YXESobslvWoJuJ1XRM4QCBzAao5EoSvC6My0zYyhsLdo7BtKYmqN/s1600/toddler+food.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="image shows a flat lay of a variety of foods on a black plate" border="0" data-original-height="1116" data-original-width="1600" height="446" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ9iQu605YoIZ7V0OJPTs3m5KwJfhTATBECKd87Liq5SAeSZaKJE6fJ_WZTJ6dRg3THai-cy5sZBeYM54ABdqXMI18YXESobslvWoJuJ1XRM4QCBzAao5EoSvC6My0zYyhsLdo7BtKYmqN/s640/toddler+food.jpg" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
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And that's why I thought I'd write this post. Not only as an insight into what I feed my toddler but also to hopefully give a little support and inspiration to any parent out there who is currently going through the same thing. Because as frustrating a stage as it is, <b>we are not alone </b>in it!</div>
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<b>Breakfast </b>- This is easily the time of day when Eric eats the most. He is a creature of habit with breakfast so always asks for<b> an apple or banana and then will have either a pancake, toast or a small pastry (as a treat) with it. Throw in some more fruit and some water and he'll happily munch away with minimal protest.</b> </div>
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<b>Lunch - </b>Before we had Eric's review I used to give him a sandwich, some dried cheerios and some more fruit and a yoghurt or cheese for lunch, but <b>one thing that was suggested at his review was that I try switching lunch and dinner around </b>to see if that helps with Eric's eating. </div>
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So now - if we are not on the go - Eric will have a bigger lunch to dinner. He will have some <b>leftovers, two fish fingers / chicken nuggets and some sort of vegetable or if I'm feeling daring, a jacket potato followed by fruit and cheese or a yoghurt!</b> And it does seem to be working (kind of). Sometimes he will turn his nose up at what's on his plate but more often than not he will eat (or at least pick at) his food. </div>
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<b>Dinner - </b>Eric's appetite definitely decreases as the day goes on, and realising this I have started to give him an earlier dinner and opt for something lighter - <b>a piece of toast with cream cheese and some dry cereal, Weetabix or a scotch pancake with fruit</b> usually go down really well. I give him his dinner in between 4.15-5pm and then if he still shows signs of being hungry I will offer him some milk before bed (although Eric is still not the biggest fan).</div>
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<b>Snacks - </b>Snacking is our biggest problem with Eric. If you gave him the chance he would just graze all day (I wonder where he gets that from.) I used to give him a morning and afternoon snack but now I only give him something if I need to bribe him up the stairs for nap time (or bedtime) and then we have the <b>'biscuits and bed' routine </b>that I mentioned in <b><a href="http://www.justadd-ginger.co.uk/2019/04/our-naptime-routine-just-add-ginger.html" target="_blank">this</a></b> post.</div>
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However if Eric is showing signs of being <i>really</i> hungry <b>fruit or dairy is always my go-to</b>. Eric is a fiend of fruit so it always is a hit and since he has discovered apples he will happily carry one round with him chomping away. He eats the entire thing so it keeps him occupied for a good while and is normally enough to carry him over to the next mealtime.</div>
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What meals are a big hit with your little ones? Are there any tactics you use to get your fussy eaters to finish off a meal? Let me know your ideas in the comments.</div>
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Gingerjaxxhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00442902807148779977noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1229204795675051737.post-33910324335002513622019-05-19T12:30:00.001+01:002019-05-19T12:30:06.484+01:00Our Private Scan Experience At Bump of Churchtown, Southport | Just Add Ginger <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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After my last pregnancy and how much it affected my mental health, this time round I wanted to go straight into things as prepared as I could be. True enough - I can't be in control of how my pregnancy was going to go, but I could be in command of managing my emotions and feelings of anxiousness that I know so, so well. </div>
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A part of this was booking myself in for some private scans - little milestones I could look forward to if things should get a little rocky or I felt myself start to wobble. I'd heard about <b>Bump of Churchtown</b> from <b><a href="http://www.codiekinz.co.uk/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Codie</a></b>, and after being told some really good things I decided to head there for a little peek in on baby.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;"><i>Image: Bump of Church-town</i></td></tr>
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Because we found out about Baby no2 so early the first thing I did was book an early reassurance scan. I think we went for this around 7/8 weeks and it was such a good decision to make. Nobody knew we were expecting and I was just so on edge that having the knowledge baby was nestled in there with its heart beating away was the comfort I really needed to carry me through to the dating scan. </div>
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Stepping into the studio it immediately felt so welcoming. The decor and layout of the waiting room feels really intimate and helps take the edge off your nerves as you wait for your appointment - it is almost like you are sitting in someone's living room and the little rustic touches really add to the calm and cosy atmosphere.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;"><i>Image: Bump of Churchtown</i></td></tr>
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The first scan was so long ago that remembering it all is a bit of a blur but I do remember being so relieved that everything was okay I cried. The whole experience left a good impression on me, so much so that I decided to sign up for the studios <b><a href="https://www.bumpofchurchtown.co.uk/special-offers" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">scan package</a> </b>, which meant that I would get to come back an additional two times to see baby alongside the scans you receive on the NHS. </div>
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Each time I came back to <b><a href="https://www.bumpofchurchtown.co.uk/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Bump of Churchtown</a></b> I felt so well looked after. The staff must see so many women every day but they really do make the experience so special for you. <b>Rachel </b>(owner and sonographer) <b>took the time to point out so many interesting things on the screen and answered any questions that we had.</b> She was very patient with us when it came to bringing Eric (who naturally didn't keep still and wanted to raid all the cupboards and play with everything and really took her time with the scan to ensure we got to spend plenty of quality time with our littlest boy. At no point did we feel rushed or like there was a time crunch working against us. </div>
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As someone who does get worried easily and is often visited by anxious thoughts, opting for private scans really helped to put my mind at rest. <b>The studio is staffed by qualified sonographers</b> so I knew I was in safe hands and Rachel also gave so much insight to what we were seeing during the scan and you just don't get that level of detail at your regular hospital ones (which is completely understandable - <i><span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">#</span></span><span style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #222222; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">noshade</span></span></i>). </div>
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I had private scans with my last pregnancy but going to Bump of Churchtown made the experience much more special - more than I could ever have hoped. Going there has been one of the highlights of this journey and the team made every visit just so wonderful for us. From seeing baby as a little tiny blob to finding out we were having a boy to one last look in at him in 4D<b> I feel like going there has helped my pregnancy become such a positive experience </b>and I actually miss having an appointment to look forward to.</div>
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When you find a hidden gem of an independent business that really leaves a lasting impression on you you should shout it from the rooftops and if you are pregnant or know someone who is and you are in the Liverpool area, then you need to book in to Bump of Churchtown. <b>For a calm and comforting atmosphere, exceptional staff and an experience you'll cherish forever you really couldn't ask for a better setting!</b></div>
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Gingerjaxxhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00442902807148779977noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1229204795675051737.post-41423476331216301162019-05-16T12:30:00.000+01:002019-05-16T12:30:01.462+01:00Dirty Dancing at the Liverpool Empire* | Just Add Ginger<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<i>AD // Gifted</i></div>
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There's definitely one thing I really struggle with when it comes to being a parent and that is making time for myself. I find it really tricky. Partly because there are always a million and one other things that need doing and partly because I don't want to miss out on family time. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk7UZYCFJdI3AIOISvIyYuRt1HM2u7ZCNSEIsDKQIsShzBrOFhfQ1Hv9byQxKOSxB6k866KK_6oJQ2d7HKIpSDFdXX39VwLfwq2_ZTTxWk08Z7p4cKrGhaVwLwmbLj7LxzWXOJv2c_b5WX/s1600/dirty+dancing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="flat lay image for playbill for dirty dancing - the classic story on stage with two pink flowers framing the programme" border="0" data-original-height="1179" data-original-width="1600" height="470" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk7UZYCFJdI3AIOISvIyYuRt1HM2u7ZCNSEIsDKQIsShzBrOFhfQ1Hv9byQxKOSxB6k866KK_6oJQ2d7HKIpSDFdXX39VwLfwq2_ZTTxWk08Z7p4cKrGhaVwLwmbLj7LxzWXOJv2c_b5WX/s640/dirty+dancing.jpg" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
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But when <b><a href="https://seatplan.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">SeatPlan</a></b> reached out and asked me if I wanted a pair of tickets for a show at the Liverpool Empire - well - the opportunity for a very rare night out sans husband and child sounded too good to refuse. So, with one of my friends in tow, on Monday evening we headed out to the city centre to watch <b>Dirty Dancing</b>.</div>
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Dirty Dancing is one of those films that is up there on my list of all-time favourites. From the music to the dancing to the absolute dreamboat that is Patrick Swayze all in all I must have seen it about a hundred times if not more. And with being so in love with the film I was really keen to see how it translated to the stage. Would it do Johnny and Baby justice? Or would I be left sitting there unable to separate the stage show from the film? </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;"><i>Image: Alistair Muir // c/o Dirty Dancing Tour - The Classic Story On Stage</i></td></tr>
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The minute we stepped into the theatre you could tell everybody was buzzing for the show. Everyone seemed so excited for it to start and were chatting and laughing animatedly amongst themselves. And as the opening music started and the whoops and cheers from us all came right on cue. </div>
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I don't quite know what I was expecting from the show but it was completely captivating. From the seamless set changes to the music to the choreography it was almost like you had been sucked into the film. There were a little differences between the film and the stage production but all in all the story we all know and love so much was exactly the same. </div>
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I'm going to be completely honest - because some of the set changes were really swift I did find myself getting a bit confused as to what was going on. But looking back I can appreciate the decision to do this. With the stage having modular props and sets the show ran really smoothly, <b>drawing your eye from scene to scene with the same smooth transition that emulates the way you watch it on screen.</b> </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmVYzaJ8jj-NHCoJHRTb88Gx2FGtRi7WK8IJy7KBeQCORHrdZ3_VLSVFzbWibskUWZ6F7Q0W4D3Wo4GKcXi0fV5rWnmxzCiHHaMJdkvzWiSIKY2seOyar2b0VpVIjQNF2nEXWNZTPjBtb8/s1600/Michael+O%2527Reilly+%2528Johnny%2529+Kira+Malou+%2528Baby%2529+Simone+Covele+%2528Penny%2529%253B+Dirty+Dancing+-+The+Classic+Story+on+Stage%253B+Photo+credit+Alastair+Muir.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="official production photography for Dirty Dancing" border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1557" height="492" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmVYzaJ8jj-NHCoJHRTb88Gx2FGtRi7WK8IJy7KBeQCORHrdZ3_VLSVFzbWibskUWZ6F7Q0W4D3Wo4GKcXi0fV5rWnmxzCiHHaMJdkvzWiSIKY2seOyar2b0VpVIjQNF2nEXWNZTPjBtb8/s640/Michael+O%2527Reilly+%2528Johnny%2529+Kira+Malou+%2528Baby%2529+Simone+Covele+%2528Penny%2529%253B+Dirty+Dancing+-+The+Classic+Story+on+Stage%253B+Photo+credit+Alastair+Muir.jpg" title="" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;"><i>Image: Alistair Muir // c/o Dirty Dancing Tour - The Classic Story On Stage<br /></i></td></tr>
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But now to the part that I'm sure most of you are reading this review for. <b>Did the stage show live up to the film? In a nutshell yes<i> and</i> no. </b></div>
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The main reason being that <b>I don't think you could ever really fill Patrick Swayze's shoes</b>. He is synonymous with Johnny Castle. Nobody could really portray the character in the same way. And the same with Jennifer Grey. The film and the characters are just too iconic. </div>
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<b>However what the production did do is portray the story in a new way. A fresh way.</b> And if you can see the two as separate entities then you will love the production just as much as the movie. From the inclusion of a live band on stage to Kira Malou's charming and comic portrayal of Baby to the injection of humour in some of the staging it is a really fun show to watch. </div>
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And the dancing ... <b>oh my god the dancing. It was just sensational</b>. Especially that of Simone Covele who plays Penny. The chemistry between her and Michael O'Reilly (Castle) as dance partners was <i>incredible</i>.</div>
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Dirty Dancing is a show that is sensual and sexy, seducing you with every song and dance number and drawing you into the story of Johnny and Baby. If you're a fan of the film you will find yourself joining in with those iconic lines ( <i>'I carried a watermelon'</i> and '<i>Nobody puts Baby in the corner' </i>got the best reception). And those who are new to the story will get swept away by the production. </div>
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The show is still touring in the UK so if you'd like to catch it, head to <b><a href="https://seatplan.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">SeatPlan</a> </b>to nab tickets while you can. But if the show isn't for you then there are lots more for upcoming shows available across the country (Les Mis is coming to Liverpool in the autumn and you can bet your bottom dollar I'm going to be twisting Ryan's arm to taken me to see it)!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDvU42Py3BhkhVMxTPZiix4rZJXeU3UqAug-K-ioPnpKKC6F3RMR67FFzO1TRkBHNzxFDK1KHC26jzuzcs-Whyx34A0lUyJ7JFNTIXJAd-PzpkoRQHN8WMOMZURXVMQscCc9NRnOkWsWNQ/s1600/new+sig.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="118" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDvU42Py3BhkhVMxTPZiix4rZJXeU3UqAug-K-ioPnpKKC6F3RMR67FFzO1TRkBHNzxFDK1KHC26jzuzcs-Whyx34A0lUyJ7JFNTIXJAd-PzpkoRQHN8WMOMZURXVMQscCc9NRnOkWsWNQ/s320/new+sig.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Imagery</b>: Alistair Muir - c/o </span><span style="font-size: 12.800000190734863px;"> Dirty Dancing Tour - The Classic Story On Stage</span></i></div>
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<i style="background-color: white; font-family: molengo;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: "molengo"; font-size: xx-small;">* I was very kindly gifted a pair of tickets by SeatPlan to review in exchange for this post. This does not affect my opinions. For more information, please see my </span><b><a href="http://www.justadd-ginger.co.uk/p/disclaimer.html" style="text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">disclaimer</span></a></b></span></i></div>
Gingerjaxxhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00442902807148779977noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1229204795675051737.post-82241914387505652252019-05-09T17:00:00.000+01:002019-05-15T18:31:09.474+01:00How I Manage Temper Tantrums | Just Add Ginger<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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As a parent I am no stranger to<b> tantrums</b>. Eric infamously had his first one at 14 months (over a yoghurt of all things) and well....things have only gotten more interesting since. </div>
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If you have watched <b><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AhA0j26j49U&t=7s" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Eric's 2 Year Update</a> </b>then you'll know that we feel that since he had his birthday Eric has just decided to grow up. And whereas there are some great improvements in some of his areas of development (he seems to be picking up new words every day) hand in hand with that has come <b>a drastic increase in the intensity of his temper tantrums! </b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9yWz48d3ZSN-Qkw2UUfEGa6nr9NpYYEE8L02m-petYfa3dQW_DPCqcpJ0zBCYdHMhViQ5TpmbkCIRhEGmhCySBs7dml9YG_RyYVcctqhc1OoN5x3QbcQXYGauOBmu8kEa9RUzswvYQ-V7/s1600/49035932_10156872650689402_8646211840537264128_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="image shows a mother, father and child sitting together on a blanket in the woods" border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="960" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9yWz48d3ZSN-Qkw2UUfEGa6nr9NpYYEE8L02m-petYfa3dQW_DPCqcpJ0zBCYdHMhViQ5TpmbkCIRhEGmhCySBs7dml9YG_RyYVcctqhc1OoN5x3QbcQXYGauOBmu8kEa9RUzswvYQ-V7/s640/49035932_10156872650689402_8646211840537264128_n.jpg" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
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Now I am by no means an expert. In fact, at the moment with my hormones being all over the place I find managing these tantrums pretty difficult. However it is for this reason that I wanted to share some of the things I do to cope when I do find myself in the middle of a temper storm. These are the things that make things a little bit better and - quite frankly - stop me going insane! </div>
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<b>Stay Calm -</b> Yeah I know - easier said than done right? But as much as trying to cope with a tantrum can make you want to tear your hair out it's important to try and look at things from your child's perspective. I saw a quote recently about toddlers trying to manage their feelings and the importance of the adult to remain calm and it just resonated with me. </div>
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So now<b> I just sit or stand in silence and watch. I practise my "up breathing" (thank you hypnobirthing) and try and stay as level headed as possible.</b> Believe me it isn't always easy, but if I start to get stressed I take a step out the room, have a minute to myself and then head back into the fray. </div>
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<b>Don't Punish The Emotion, Challenge The Behaviour - </b>As he grows up I would never want Eric to think that he could not tell me something. So I'm starting early and when his temper strikes <b>I let him feel. He can't verbally communicate with me so tantrums are his way of expressing himself when he gets completely overwhelmed. </b></div>
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That being said<b> I do intervene of his behaviour is starting to become unacceptable</b>. Whether that is throwing things, hitting, knocking over furniture or gnawing. He isn't the type of toddler to lash out at others in malice (although the gnawing has been aimed at Ryan and I once or twice) and I'm working hard to not let it get to that point. </div>
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And if he's getting really irate, not paying attention to what he is doing and is looking like he might hurt himself I (if I can) put him in his cot so that I know he is safe.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3F0dxh9JpLwhLbB3e8qhyogiANZaITzDWtmk46jFwrUaGMJX77sSc9StQO_9BZYwCJ8QgrcE4fqkY8B0ei2rcNzRwl6JFZaaDPbY3cexYaGF73pBd1i8BsHJFC0lC7NE4-QGmkufjFfb-/s1600/temper+pin.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="pinterest pin image from just add ginger - how to manage temper tantrums" border="0" data-original-height="1560" data-original-width="600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3F0dxh9JpLwhLbB3e8qhyogiANZaITzDWtmk46jFwrUaGMJX77sSc9StQO_9BZYwCJ8QgrcE4fqkY8B0ei2rcNzRwl6JFZaaDPbY3cexYaGF73pBd1i8BsHJFC0lC7NE4-QGmkufjFfb-/s640/temper+pin.png" title="" width="246" /></a></div>
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<b>Take A Breath - </b>As exhausting as it is for Eric to have a tantrum it can be for me too and sometime I do struggle to hold it together. And that's okay. Because as parents we can't have it together all the time. So, <b>if I know Eric is safe I do step away for a moment, take a deep breath and then carry on</b>. I don't want him to see that I am not coping - <b>he needs me and I need to be there. But I need to be there for myself too.</b> </div>
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<b>Cry Out Of Sight - </b>Once Eric has calmed down and we have moved on from the tantrum <b>I put a pin in how I feel and come back to it when I'm alone or with Ryan</b>. I vent, I cry and I get everything off my chest. <b>You just can't hold on to things as a parent. It isn't fair to you or your child.</b> So at the end of the day I let go of everything that has made me feel angry or frustrated or sad and I move on, ready to start over again the following day.</div>
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Gingerjaxxhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00442902807148779977noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1229204795675051737.post-33738348647577477572019-04-21T12:00:00.000+01:002019-04-21T12:00:00.976+01:005 Helpful Gifts For Mums-To-Be | Just Add Ginger <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Let's kick things off with a big fat disclaimer - <b>this post is in no way a passive aggressive means of me gift seeking from friends or family</b>! I was really nervous to write a post like this just in case it was misinterpreted that way. But no, it is simply me sharing my thoughts on gifts I think a fellow mum-to-be would find incredibly useful. </div>
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Baby showers are becoming more and more popular in the UK so if you are attending one soon and want to think a little bit outside the box, here are my thoughts on some great <b>alternatives to the more obvious cutesy clothes, baby toys or keepsakes</b>.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg54rF0f-hYq1QEZ7mCLuSR99QzP9pElr0o2sFYVC2DOuXGdnCbqBx8pG7gMogvovQFDxeoMG5KRQAa4WjcsLFg7E4ATQdTJ0-ktsOk2iMQhiYLSCSaGQrq8FFs6JFtSa37IQyk4ixvre8q/s1600/little-baby-legs-picjumbo-com.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="image shows a newborn baby's feet and legs" border="0" data-original-height="988" data-original-width="1600" height="394" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg54rF0f-hYq1QEZ7mCLuSR99QzP9pElr0o2sFYVC2DOuXGdnCbqBx8pG7gMogvovQFDxeoMG5KRQAa4WjcsLFg7E4ATQdTJ0-ktsOk2iMQhiYLSCSaGQrq8FFs6JFtSa37IQyk4ixvre8q/s640/little-baby-legs-picjumbo-com.jpg" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>Nappies & Wipes - </b>As a new parent your life pretty much centres around constantly keeping tabs on how many nappies you still have left in the house. The last thing you ever want is to be faced with a baby poo explosion and only then discovering you have just run out of nappies - especially if it's the middle of the night! </div>
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<b>With it coming up to Baby Event season in the shops, boxes of wipes and nappies tend to go on offer. And this is the perfect time to pick up a box or two.</b> Yes okay - it's not as cute as baby clothes or a soft toy but it is a really, really useful gift to get someone that will be greatly appreciated!</div>
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<b> Self Care Supplies - </b>When you've just had a baby your emotions can be all over the place. Your body has gone through a lot, your sleep pattern completely changes and sometimes you don't know whether you want to laugh or cry. It can be tough! </div>
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Throw in the fact that there is a new little life that is totally dependent on you and time for self care is extremely limited. You just don't think about it in the same way anymore. But it is extremely important for both your physical and mental wellbeing. </div>
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<b>Putting together a little parcel of mum's favourite pamper products, ways to wind down or some tasty treats is a great reminder to her to take some time out and relax (even if it's just for a minute or two in the day.) </b></div>
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Stuck for ideas? Bath or shower products, fancy tea bags or a jar of coffee and some biscuits or something chocolate-y are great additions, as are a candle or incense and some new pjs or fluffy sock. It all depends on what mum enjoys, but having that reminder that she is okay to take off that mummy hat from time to time is something she will really appreciate.</div>
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<b>Bigger Baby Clothes - </b>Mum may already have all the clothes she needs for baby's first months, <b>but if you simply cannot resist the call of the cute babygrows and outfits then why not pick up one or two in a slightly bigger size</b>? Babies outgrow clothes at what seems like the speed of light sometimes so having a few bits and bobs all ready to go for when little one moves up a size means mum isn't completely without and feels just that little bit more prepared for the months to come. </div>
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Places that I love to shop for baby clothes and who offer pretty good sizing are <b>Primark</b> (for a true to size fit), <b>H&M</b> (who offer in between sizes compared to other shops), <b>TKMaxx</b> (for gorgeous one off designs) and <b>Next or M&S</b> (who I think do some of the best babygrows - the sizing is on the bigger end of the scale so things tend to last that little bit longer.)</div>
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<b>Pre-Made Meals - </b>Enjoy cooking or consider yourself a bit of an amateur chef? Then <b>get yourself some freezable tubs and jump in the kitchen.</b> Because after you've just had a baby eating can easily get pushed down your list of priorities (and sometimes even gets forgotten altogether.) </div>
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Batch cooking and bringing boxes full of frozen food to a baby shower may seem odd but when mum (or dad) are in the delirious state of adjusting to a new routine having something quick and easy to eat that can just be thrown in the microwave will be a godsend. It might be a meal that take them ages to eat and they may end up enjoying it cold, but<i> it is a meal</i>. And <b>it ensures that they are taking care of themselves as well as their little one</b>.</div>
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<b>A Helping Hand - </b>When Eric was born, Ryan had three weeks off for paternity leave and if my mum hadn't come up straight afterwards to help me I think I would have been so distraught. <b>Because being a mum to a newborn (especially if you haven't had a baby before) can be one of the loneliest times in your life</b>. Everyone you know is in work, you might not have any mummy friends who are in the same boat and the days are <i>long</i>.</div>
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Offering your time or making plans for after the baby is born gives mum something to instantly look forward to. Of course, you need to gauge the timing (taking into account recovery and any paternity / holiday their partner may be taking) but just being there is an invaluable gift. Even if it's <b>popping over for a coffee and letting mum have a shower or offering to take the baby on a walk for 20 minutes while she has a nap</b>! It's a present that is absolutely priceless. </div>
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Especially if you can plan for it to be a regular thing. Once every few weeks, once a month, or as often as you can. In those first couple of months where mum is trying to refine herself and balance life with a new baby, having that reminder that she isn't on her own and does have friends around her who are happy to sit with her, chat to her about anything other than being a mum, or to be a shoulder to cry on...<b>I honestly think that is one of the best gifts you could offer.</b></div>
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Gingerjaxxhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00442902807148779977noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1229204795675051737.post-74834192962867164752019-04-18T13:01:00.001+01:002019-04-18T13:01:23.066+01:00Our Naptime Routine | Just Add Ginger<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Something we are really proud of as parents is that Eric - for the majority of the time - is a really good sleeper. I worked really hard when he was younger at getting him used to soothing himself in his cot (as a newborn he liked to be rocked back to sleep quite a lot and by the end of it my arm would be dead.) But once he was in his own room that was it....he was doing it himself. I'd sit there for <i>hours</i> sometimes rubbing his back and shushing him back to sleep and now, two years down the line, <b>those sleepless nights have paid off</b>.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKe8mWNlKoFXoZkiX17k-_WO6tOHVNoBroUsNO3RKzoo1HxQSeY3lIVUO2Lc7i-Kvka9uBmeKDKJD7N9OYrJDHGCu_N3ncgm8hZWMnC2gQMEjsmRLZ5Q8BPHH3prXRLn24phWRTq9ybpjT/s1600/OConnors+%25287%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="image shows a mother and son walking in the woods" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKe8mWNlKoFXoZkiX17k-_WO6tOHVNoBroUsNO3RKzoo1HxQSeY3lIVUO2Lc7i-Kvka9uBmeKDKJD7N9OYrJDHGCu_N3ncgm8hZWMnC2gQMEjsmRLZ5Q8BPHH3prXRLn24phWRTq9ybpjT/s640/OConnors+%25287%2529.jpg" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>I wish the same could be said for nap time! </b>As a baby Eric was great. But now..... bloody hell! It's luck of the draw whether he's going to sleep for two hours, an hour or even go down at all. He will fight it and fight it and fight it sometimes until I look at the monitor and think '<i>this really isn't going to happen is it?</i>' then give up. Yes, when it comes to naps, Eric gets a serious case of FOMO. </div>
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Which is pretty much when anybody else except for me and him are in the house. I don't take any crap when it comes to nap times so whereas Ryan is great at getting Eric back to sleep should he wake in the night (they are thick as thieves) it is nearly always down to me to be the <b>designated nap time bad cop.</b> </div>
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<b>Routine</b> plays a huge part in whether Eric's <b>naps are successful</b>. It's taken a long time to figure out what works best and things change all the time. <b>The first thing I do is to gauge when Eric might be getting sleepy. He still has a morning nap so when he wakes up first thing I check the time and plan to try him 3.5 hours later</b>. This timing suggestion was given by my health visitor and it's been a really good tip for us. <b>Being a few steps ahead when it comes to predicting when Eric is ready for a nap is essential to it being a success</b>. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfWCAVbR_D-28XTm9UrkBko24OOnmkCplAZyYpH6SMQwUXahje6BYHqdFY33PqCjEcUZ8ZGlunR06CNUTUKRq-nA_LRMoKU-sXpFjsWqZJEXDVWaIspNnCuj9oSfJhEMBqNQUYR8gfOSWu/s1600/OConnors+%252847%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="image shows a mother and son walking in the woods" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfWCAVbR_D-28XTm9UrkBko24OOnmkCplAZyYpH6SMQwUXahje6BYHqdFY33PqCjEcUZ8ZGlunR06CNUTUKRq-nA_LRMoKU-sXpFjsWqZJEXDVWaIspNnCuj9oSfJhEMBqNQUYR8gfOSWu/s640/OConnors+%252847%2529.jpg" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
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Now when it comes to nap times it's all or nothing. I have made sure that Eric knows that when he's in his cot and the right conditions are set it's time for bed. I don't count car sleeps or any naps that are induced by motion unless he is absolutely shattered. He gets the best quality of sleep being in a cot so that is what we do. </div>
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When he was younger (and lighter) I would carry Eric up to bed. But now that that is no longer an option (unless I somehow grow a load of muscle overnight) I turn to the thing that instantly nominated you for 'Parent of the Year'.... bribes! </div>
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<b>Biscuits are my current bribe of choice</b>. Oh I can hear the judgemental signs and eye rolls happening as I type, but I don't care. They work! Every morning in the lead up to him trying for a sleep we have 'biscuits in bed.' He carries the biscuits up the stairs, chomping all the way, and then I put one in his cot to have once he's in. <b>One or two little biscotti are enough to get him where he needs to be and keep him there.</b> It also keeps him occupied for long enough for me to put him in a sleeping bag which are not his favourite things.</div>
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<b>Next we have story time</b>. I normally aim to read 2-3 books before he goes down and finish on Eric's <b>sleep trigger book</b>. Sleep trigger you ask. Yes - I've given it a name because that's exactly what it does. <b>A book that Eric associates with sleep. Ours is The Gruffalo</b>. You could be reading him anything beforehand and he would be jumping on the bed, throwing everything out the cot or being a fusspot, but as soon as he hears The Gruffalo that's it, he snuggles down, cuddles his teddy (Mr Fox) and gets ready to nod off. </div>
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For a child who can sometimes be an absolute nightmare to get to sleep this little routine is one that really works for us. Of course there will be the odd occasion where nothing will tempt Eric to sleep but you just have to accept that. But ultimately if you get your timings right, there's nothing bothering him and you stay calm you are on to a winner and have at least an hour and a half for a drink and a snack, to catch up on your favourite TV show, to get some housework done or to have a nap. </div>
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And that makes it all worth it!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDvU42Py3BhkhVMxTPZiix4rZJXeU3UqAug-K-ioPnpKKC6F3RMR67FFzO1TRkBHNzxFDK1KHC26jzuzcs-Whyx34A0lUyJ7JFNTIXJAd-PzpkoRQHN8WMOMZURXVMQscCc9NRnOkWsWNQ/s1600/new+sig.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="118" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDvU42Py3BhkhVMxTPZiix4rZJXeU3UqAug-K-ioPnpKKC6F3RMR67FFzO1TRkBHNzxFDK1KHC26jzuzcs-Whyx34A0lUyJ7JFNTIXJAd-PzpkoRQHN8WMOMZURXVMQscCc9NRnOkWsWNQ/s320/new+sig.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Images: Rachel Clarke Photography</i></span></div>
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Gingerjaxxhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00442902807148779977noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1229204795675051737.post-89272082638262768412019-04-14T16:00:00.000+01:002019-04-14T16:00:05.394+01:00Planning Eric's 2nd Birthday Party | Just Add Ginger <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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When Ryan first mentioned the idea of throwing an actual birthday party for Eric I was <i>not</i> keen. Last year we just had friends and family round to the house. There was food, there was chatting, there was a plethora of toys for Eric to play with. It was informal. It was easy. </div>
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But an actual birthday party? In a hall? Where you are a little bit out of control of how things will come together on the day...? He had to be joking. It took quite a bit of initial arm twisting on Ryan's behalf but eventually I saw how it might make our lives easier. </div>
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For starters - this is the first year Eric has got little friends. So instantly our guest list increased drastically. a majority of his friends are under 3 so having the space to entertain a troop of toddlers might be difficult in our house (plus you can never guarantee good weather in April.) Secondly <b>if we booked a separate space for a party, there would be a definite start and end time.</b> Guests would arrive, and then leave. Not that we don't like hosting people but after a party everyone is tired and undoubtedly we would want our own space to come back to that wasn't cluttered and in need of a clean. </div>
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So the search began for the perfect place to host Eric's party. We had a few initial ideas after attending a few baby classes in church halls and after a quick text to a friend we quickly found and finalised a venue and a date. </div>
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<i>That</i> was the easy bit. <b>Next was</b> trying to sort out <b>entertainment</b>...But just what do you do for a toddler's birthday party? Eric isn't really at an age to join in party games, wouldn't appreciate anybody who was dressed up and is a bit young for things like a swimming party. So actually trying to figure out what to have that would keep everyone occupied (especially the slightly older children who would be coming) was a bit of a stumbling point.</div>
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Soft play seemed to be the most appealing option. There's nothing Eric loves more than going to soft play areas, climbing, jumping, sliding and causing absolute chaos so there was no doubt that at least where he was concerned, we would definitely get a lot of bang for our buck. After stumbling across a local company who seemed to offer everything we were looking for we put in some initial enquiries and waited to hear back. </div>
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I'm not going to lie...this was probably the most stressful part of the whole party planning process, and it was partly due to the fact that I am a control freak when it comes to organisation and in an ideal world would have things sorted instantaneously. We sent off all the paperwork and finalised the details but after that there was nothing until the day before the party. And <b>it just put me on edge</b>. However, <b>the company really came through on the day and were incredibly professional, setting up and packing away the equipment really efficiently</b>. So in the end, all my fears were totally unfounded. </div>
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Trying to organise the food was another stressful factor. Initially were going to order the main bulk of the food from Costco online. However, it got to the Thursday night before the party and the system was not offering us any collection dates until the week after. </div>
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So in a panicked state, with 3% battery left on my phone, I scrambled onto the Tesco website and ordered anything that could be delivered the night before. It was the most decisive I've ever been and I had no idea really what I was ordering but on the day it all turned out amazingly. <b>There were sandwiches, pizza, crisps, and then a designated treat table which held chocolate fingers, chocolate bars, jelly sweets, cake and popcorn</b> (I just couldn't resist putting in my own Popcorn Shed order after being kindly gifted some of their tasty treats.<i>*</i>)</div>
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<b>After swearing blindly in the midst of the stress that Eric would never be having another birthday party, we pulled off everything perfectly</b>. I bought a huge pack of balloons that we scattered around the room, hung banners and set up a colouring in table (which was a massive hit.) We bought a speaker from B&M and blasted out children's songs (and some for the adults too). We decided to do our gender reveal at the party so I bought a piñata for the children to get involved with. One of our good friends made the birthday cake and we bought in a few extra toys from home that we thought were a bit more interactive. </div>
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<b>All in all I think we spent about £250 - £300 </b>which may seem a bit extravagant but everybody had an amazing time. There was ample food and drink, the soft play was a massive hit with everyone and the speaker is going to live with us so is an investment in itself. And where we spent a lot on the party we didn't get Eric a lot of presents so put the money we would have spent into all those party essentials. </div>
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I think a part of us wanted to make this birthday really special for him too. Because after this year he's going to be a big brother, and everything is going to change again.</div>
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<i>* I have previously worked with Popcorn Shed and was gifted some of their products to feature in a blog post. However I paid for the popcorn for the party myself. </i><i style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(102, 102, 102);"><span style="font-family: inherit;">For more information, please see my <b><a href="http://www.justadd-ginger.co.uk/p/disclaimer.html" style="text-decoration-line: none; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">disclaimer</a>.</b></span></i></div>
Gingerjaxxhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00442902807148779977noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1229204795675051737.post-19393769483621298392019-04-11T14:47:00.001+01:002019-04-11T14:49:37.529+01:00How I'm Empowering Myself This Pregnancy | Just Add Ginger<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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When I was pregnant with Eric pretty much everything terrified me. There was so much that happened in those nine months that I barely had time to process one issue before the next came up. It left me in bits afterwards and ever so slightly hesitant to go through it all again. </div>
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Fast forward to two and a bit years later and things could not be more different. I barely recognise the person I was back then and with every day that passes <b>I am more and more excited at the prospect of pushing another baby out my vagina</b>!</div>
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I of course take a lot of the credit for that myself. <b>I mean, I shot down a spiral of doom and despair pretty quickly and I got myself right out of it again</b>. And sure there are days where I carry the weight of the world on my shoulders and worry about anything and everything but these are days are few and far between and never about pregnancy or the thought of giving birth. </div>
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There are however some pretty big changes I've made this time round. <b>First of which is the level of privacy I've allowed myself to have</b>. Instead of plastering regular pregnancy updates all over social media I've taken a step back and kept quite a lot to myself. I mean Ryan and I have only just done our gender reveal and I'm currently 26 weeks pregnant. <b>The level of protectiveness I have over this baby is ridiculous</b> and it's done me the world of good to just allow myself the time to enjoy the pregnancy and get excited about it. instead of involving people in everything that's been going on. <b>That in itself has been one of the most empowering moves I could have ever made</b>. </div>
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<b>I'm also being a lot more decisive</b>. Last time round I think I went with the flow and just went along with things because I thought they were the 'right thing' to do. I was a first time mum. I didn't know any better. But<b> this time I've found my voice</b>. I know how I'd like things to go and I'm not afraid to push for them. We've gone from probably heading to the MLU again to now <b>wanting a home birth </b>(fingers crossed). I'm a lot more vocal about <b>wanting to try breastfeeding </b>and I am asking<i> so</i> many questions so that I am better informed. Ryan and I are practising hypnobirthing together and I just know what feels right. I'm trusting my instincts more.<b> I know what I want</b>. </div>
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<b>Hypnobirthing is playing a <i>huge</i> part in how strong I feel</b>. We're currently working through <b>The Positive Birth Company's Digital Pack but I've also just started Siobhan Miller's new book, both of which are absolutely game changing</b> in the way I think about labour and birth. <b>I have</b> a new found appreciation for my body and have <b>fallen in love with my pregnant self</b>. I feel confident that no matter what happens I will have an amazing birth experience and am making the right choices that ensure that happens. </div>
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Hand in hand with hypnobirthing comes my musical choices. Environment plays a huge part in the hypnobirthing experience and where as last time I wanted to listen to music with a strong beat, now <b>I've picked music that is evocative and sparks happy memories</b> - from the best gigs I've ever been to to my favourite places to getting married, each piece I've chosen transports me somewhere and calms me.<b> I test out my <a href="https://open.spotify.com/user/gingerjaxx/playlist/2Xp2pMNTp9S9x5Kuki1d78?si=suRHRHOsTBeYWTFsf_vO4w" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">playlist</a> at times when I need to feel calm and at peace and I'm already "training" myself to associate the playlist with feeling completely relaxed</b>. </div>
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Never in my life would I have thought I could be this calm about expecting another baby but I am. I really am. And as for really looking forward to pushing out of my lady bits? I'd have laughed out loud. But I honestly can't wait. <b>I believe in myself</b>. </div>
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And best of all....I feel amazing!</div>
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Gingerjaxxhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00442902807148779977noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1229204795675051737.post-32020557863507784002019-03-24T18:00:00.000+00:002019-03-24T18:00:05.039+00:005 More Rainy Day Activities To Keep Your Toddler Entertained | Just Add Ginger <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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The last time I wrote a <b><a href="http://www.justadd-ginger.co.uk/2018/09/five-ways-to-keep-your-toddler.html" target="_blank">post like this</a></b>, Eric was 17 months old and just entering proper toddlerhood. <b>Now he is nearly 24 months (or 2 years) old and my lord a lot has changed</b>. I have a walking, (nearly) talking, tantruming, opinionated little sasspot on my hands who is on the go from first thing in the morning until he is literally so tired he can't keep his eyes open anymore. </div>
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Being pregnant with baby no.2 has also altered things quite a bit. <b>Some days I've barely had enough energy to get dressed let alone leave the house so I've really had to think on my toes when it comes to how to keep Eric entertained. </b></div>
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So I call these 'rainy day activities' but really they are <b>activities for rainy days, days when you need to get things done around the house or days when you just can't be bothered</b> (let's face it we all have them as parents.) And hopefully when you are sitting there ready to tear your hair out and internally screaming <i>"what are the bloody hell are we going to do today?" </i>these will help spark an idea.</div>
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<b>Puzzles and Games - </b>I don't know how it happened, but Eric is really, really good at puzzles! You know - those ones with pieces that fit in to their corresponding shapes on a board. He will power through one of those in a couple of minutes, so now I am <i>trying</i> (emphasis on the trying) to get him into games. That is...if he sits still long enough! </div>
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Puzzles and games are great for a number of different reasons. They<b> promote motor skills, understanding, communication and vocabulary</b> and are also great if you need a good sit down, quiet activity to do pre or post nap. </div>
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On a recommendation I am going to start building an Orchard Toys collection of games and puzzles but there are so many other great brands out there that cater to your child and their age / abilities. </div>
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<b>Colouring In - </b>As crazy as he is, colouring in (and stickers) are a big hit with Eric. He will take himself off and mark make in his colouring book (or my diary) for ages and be happy as a clam. </div>
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You take your wallpaper into your hands the minute you hand over a crayon to a toddler but there are some other great alternatives should you not want your living room to turn a different colour. <b>There are mess free colouring books, aqua doodle mats and I've even seen colouring pads that do something similar</b>. </div>
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Again, <b>colouring in works on different areas of development (fine motor and communication are but two</b>) and gives the chance for you to talk to and interact with your child (although Eric doesn't like it if you try and colour with him.)</div>
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<b>Soft Play - </b>Yes, I said it! Soft play. Sometimes you just have to. Great for rainy days (and days when it's just too warm) there are some great ones out there you can take your little ones to.</div>
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I'm so funny when it comes to places I feel comfortable taking Eric but <b>there is a play centre near us which I've started to call my 'safe place'. It's exclusively for under 5's, is very open plan, and you can see your child from nearly any angle. There is also a baby section for little ones under 12 months</b> so ideal for if you have two or more small children with you. And I just love it. </div>
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Play centres like this are great because <b>they encourage social skills and independent play</b>. Plus there's usually the option to buy a coffee if you are really struggling. So yes, I said the dreaded 's word', but if you find a good one to go to, they will honestly be a lifesaver!</div>
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<b>Read and Sing - </b>This is perfect for if you have a little chatterbox on your hands but also for if your child is still working on their speech. Having time set aside to sing songs or read with your child is great for bonding too. It gives a great opportunity for cuddles, snuggles and quiet moments with your child that you may otherwise not get during the day.</div>
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<b>With a really active toddler I have specific points in the day where I know these activities are more likely to succeed</b>. We have a 'biscuits and bed' before his nap in the morning where I will read 2-3 books to him and sometimes sing some songs. Then during the day I will intermittently start singing songs I know he likes <i>(Five Little Monkeys, Wind The Bobbin Up</i> and <i>If You're Happy And You Know</i> It always go down well.) We will often have music or an audio book on as background noise too. At night, we have The Gruffalo as that is his (what I call) 'sleep cue' story.</div>
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<b>Repetition is key when it comes to songs. It also helps if you get really involved and enthusiastic too</b>. Even though Eric isn't talking yet if I start singing a song he knows he will join in with actions. And it's the same with stories. The Gruffalo is his favourite book and when I describe the features of the title character, Eric will point to each place on himself.</div>
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<b>Movie Time - </b>Because sometimes you just have to. </div>
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Yes, screen time isn't always encouraged but <b>for those days when you have made it through to the afternoon and you are at the end of your tether, a film or TV show can allow you some precious moments to make a coffee, eat something and take a deep breath ready to carry on. </b></div>
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Gingerjaxxhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00442902807148779977noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1229204795675051737.post-90824323372715983852019-03-24T13:23:00.002+00:002019-03-24T13:30:49.378+00:00Sharing My New Secret Snack Weapon - Popcorn Shed Review* | Just Add Ginger<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<i>AD || Gifted</i></div>
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As a mum my days are often spent on a continuous loop of feeding, cleaning and entertaining my child. Honestly it is ridiculous how much food my little boy eats, and nearly all of it is snacks. A bloodhound for anything sweet I daren't go near him with anything that even marginally resembles food because he will seek it out, throw it at me, then give me those cute, puppy dog toddler eyes at stare at me until I give him some. It is a nightmare. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ39GvNJhs7PmWtOSd0Uf0RosOqBJ3LbuDYQSKD_7lTVf53ZA-lR3hxwPs2hlhWRACQYAnjuKCL2E6akWCaL9ljm2-_6BnRHWLlWmsAMe46lGgJde0A_az_NkO7ZYeZFDOhpUptaTjjfnK/s1600/pop+I.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="image shows a flat lay of popcorn shed products and artificial flowers" border="0" data-original-height="1206" data-original-width="1600" height="482" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ39GvNJhs7PmWtOSd0Uf0RosOqBJ3LbuDYQSKD_7lTVf53ZA-lR3hxwPs2hlhWRACQYAnjuKCL2E6akWCaL9ljm2-_6BnRHWLlWmsAMe46lGgJde0A_az_NkO7ZYeZFDOhpUptaTjjfnK/s640/pop+I.jpg" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
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It also means <b>I'm often left going hungry, sneaking off to the kitchen whenever I can to hide in the pantry and eat something myself</b>. And even though I don't have a lot of time, this is where I choose my snacks with care. Because even though I sometimes do have to scoff them within a matter of seconds, I still want them to be tasty.</div>
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You know me. <b>I am governed by my sweet tooth</b> and if ever I have the chance to try something new I am there. And <b><a href="https://popcornshed.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Popcorn Shed</a></b> was definitely no exception to that. One of my biggest guilty pleasure is a big bowl of popcorn in the evenings so the minute I was offered the chance to try some of Popcorn Shed's flavours I signed up without even drawing a breath. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge9pRVa3Ad9YPx_9RJBKprwWEul3K1LiEH9vsgqskc_cEUD_sKeCbFX2H2jC267XK5OA-oJzEVQ71W8MuZe1qbBBgZb7_AJB4NMjGgcHxOCQKoZUcN8gP5dPK4KHl4WLr0pq1SjEZLJiwT/s1600/pop+II.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="image shows a flat lay of popcorn shed products and artificial flowers" border="0" data-original-height="1155" data-original-width="1600" height="462" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge9pRVa3Ad9YPx_9RJBKprwWEul3K1LiEH9vsgqskc_cEUD_sKeCbFX2H2jC267XK5OA-oJzEVQ71W8MuZe1qbBBgZb7_AJB4NMjGgcHxOCQKoZUcN8gP5dPK4KHl4WLr0pq1SjEZLJiwT/s640/pop+II.jpg" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
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A<b> home-grown and family-run business</b>, Popcorn Shed is a popcorn brand with a punch. Using artisan cooking methods their snacks really bring it when it comes to flavour <i>and</i> texture. Offering flavour combinations I'd never even thought of and with added texture in the form of dried fruit, nuts and chocolate<b> the days of rubbery, lack-lustre, polystyrene-like popcorn are a thing of the past. </b></div>
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Now I'm not going to lie to you. When I first saw some of the flavours I had been sent I thought <i>'really, are you having a laugh?' </i>I mean - cheesy popcorn? Really? <i>Really? </i>But giving it the benefit of the doubt I gave it a go (this was the <i>Sweet Cheesus</i> variety) and oh my god.... it really does work! And who would have thought it? Mixed together with the super sweet pieces it was an absolute dream flavour combination. So that's something to bear in mind. Yes some of the ingredients sound a bit bizarre, but<b> Popcorn Shed really know what they are talking about</b>.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm8d7ZAM-L457LyBwcbc3HkxvU6GwXgtXlBlnMlFmVF1uhGrr4fRslcUgX0JN2mkthnJGwz8Y2Hvz2LVYIJ2dCZ6YKJYzSinrRi4GVRx5PiB1Tgaf3JedO8c-AHhlnzntooymZ0HPfyRx9/s1600/pop+III.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="close up image of a bowl of popcorn and popcorn shed products" border="0" data-original-height="1141" data-original-width="1600" height="456" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm8d7ZAM-L457LyBwcbc3HkxvU6GwXgtXlBlnMlFmVF1uhGrr4fRslcUgX0JN2mkthnJGwz8Y2Hvz2LVYIJ2dCZ6YKJYzSinrRi4GVRx5PiB1Tgaf3JedO8c-AHhlnzntooymZ0HPfyRx9/s640/pop+III.jpg" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
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Aside from the flavour we also need to talk about the packaging. Available in either handy grab and go size bags, 80g sharing bag "shed" or kilner style plastic jars <b>Popcorn Shed definitely stand out with their brightly coloured designs, bold typography and cute graphics</b> (the 'sheds' come with fully recyclable cardboard shells too). You definitely wouldn't miss them on a supermarket shelf and even their colour choices pay a little homage to the flavour the packet contains. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_h2uRF7XtZhrO-Q_7fIJnNdp7paq0q15noCjD3_1bslbg3kv7Xdckp-W-jAjx33MkMuudiCp0pK0XzlfwvFnchNThmFv_fjsMxpX6w3jv41oTlurD_kEOvxjYxIH2EQ0dcqe_PPVWVAqK/s1600/pop+pin.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="pinterest friendly image of popcorn shed products and a bowl of popcorn" border="0" data-original-height="1560" data-original-width="600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_h2uRF7XtZhrO-Q_7fIJnNdp7paq0q15noCjD3_1bslbg3kv7Xdckp-W-jAjx33MkMuudiCp0pK0XzlfwvFnchNThmFv_fjsMxpX6w3jv41oTlurD_kEOvxjYxIH2EQ0dcqe_PPVWVAqK/s640/pop+pin.png" title="" width="246" /></a></div>
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Gluten free, made from all natural ingredients and bloomin' delicious to boot <b>my favourite flavour so far has to be the Pop 'N' Choc</b> (three guesses as to why) but I have enjoyed every variety I've tried so far. So much so that I am having to really stagger eating the packets I have left because quite honestly<i> I don't want it to end! </i>I'm even tempted to order one of the big jars for Eric's birthday party just so that I can spread the popcorn joy and introduce more people to the brand. </div>
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But when it comes to my secret in-house mummy snacking....these are definitely something I <i>will not</i> be sharing with my child.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDvU42Py3BhkhVMxTPZiix4rZJXeU3UqAug-K-ioPnpKKC6F3RMR67FFzO1TRkBHNzxFDK1KHC26jzuzcs-Whyx34A0lUyJ7JFNTIXJAd-PzpkoRQHN8WMOMZURXVMQscCc9NRnOkWsWNQ/s1600/new+sig.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="118" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDvU42Py3BhkhVMxTPZiix4rZJXeU3UqAug-K-ioPnpKKC6F3RMR67FFzO1TRkBHNzxFDK1KHC26jzuzcs-Whyx34A0lUyJ7JFNTIXJAd-PzpkoRQHN8WMOMZURXVMQscCc9NRnOkWsWNQ/s320/new+sig.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<i style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: "molengo"; font-size: x-small;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">* I was very kindly gifted a selection of popcorn from Popcorn Shed to review. This does not affect my opinions. For more information, please see my </span></span><b style="caret-color: rgb(102, 102, 102); color: #666666; font-family: Molengo; font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.justadd-ginger.co.uk/p/disclaimer.html" style="color: #888888; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">disclaimer</a>.</b></i></div>
Gingerjaxxhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00442902807148779977noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1229204795675051737.post-46369864182646145152019-03-17T17:10:00.001+00:002019-03-17T17:10:39.914+00:005 Instagram Accounts You Should Be Following | Just Add Ginger<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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I'm a big advocate of <b>shopping small, independent business and supporting local talent</b> wherever possible. In place of browsing high street or big online stores for things to buy I would much rather look on Etsy or Instagram. </div>
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With all this in mind I wanted to sit down and share the love of some of the accounts that I'm really enjoying and places I just love to shop. Yes a lot of them pertain to a similar theme but I am living that mum life nowadays so these are the places I enjoy browsing the most!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgokga00DIhs37dXX8X_bneTH7JQ62XDwbwjWZzJJ7zZ6EfuSdp-JB1stjuaNxu4YnVa7oDabaL-Wxis_iZpLv0zBhyphenhyphengJd_Eri310IaO5Sg2hoPlZiS1d5qvrV0BoS4YhHnNoGT4DDDm6Y3/s1600/coffee-laptop-business-work-still-life-picjumbo-com.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="stock flat lay image of a coffee cup, laptop and business papers on a desk" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgokga00DIhs37dXX8X_bneTH7JQ62XDwbwjWZzJJ7zZ6EfuSdp-JB1stjuaNxu4YnVa7oDabaL-Wxis_iZpLv0zBhyphenhyphengJd_Eri310IaO5Sg2hoPlZiS1d5qvrV0BoS4YhHnNoGT4DDDm6Y3/s640/coffee-laptop-business-work-still-life-picjumbo-com.jpg" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i>Bear and Rose</i> | <b>@bearandrose</b></div>
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I first stumbled across Bear and Rose on Etsy. I was on the search for a little name plaque for Little One and there they were. Stocking <b>the sweetest range of bespoke personalised and decorative pieces that would be gorgeous for the home, wedding and children's bedrooms alike</b> I want to add pretty much everything they stock to our house in some way. If you like a little touch of the rustic or Scandi then this is definitely the account for you! </div>
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<i>The Monochrome Baby</i> | <b>@themonochromebaby</b></div>
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The Monochrome Baby also have an online store where <b>they sell clothing items for adults and children</b> who - as the name would imply - have an appreciation for monochrome items. Their Insta feed is a curation of styling inspiration and outfit ideas and looking at the photos just makes your heart melt. Have a baby or are looking for something a bit more original to buy as a gift for someone you know? I'd definitely give them a follow.</div>
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<i>The Enchanted Maple</i> | <b>@the.enchanted.maple</b></div>
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I actually went to school with the lady who runs this account so I am pretty invested in following her and advocating her work. Again, The Enchanted Maple can be found on Etsy too and <b>with everything that is sold you can just tell how much love and thought has been poured into it</b>. From reading pillows to greetings cards and keepsakes it is the definition of a home-run business and all the items are just so sweet. The Enchanted Maple is the perfect place to look if you are after a gift that is that little extra bit special - just scroll through their feed and your bound to spot something you instantly covet.</div>
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<i>Books for My Toddler</i> | <b>@booksformytoddler</b></div>
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Like with The Enchanted Maple I know the lady who runs Books For My Toddler. A teacher and reading advocate her feed is <b>full of not only book recommendations but daily tips and ideas for how to incorporate reading into part of your everyday routine</b>. All of her ideas are easy to carry out or put together and add a bit more structure to story time (which as a stay-at-home mum I've found a godsend.) I have put it to this one that she should start a blog with all of her ideas so hopefully one day I'll be singing the praises of that too.</div>
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<i>Tinypix</i> | <b>@tinypix.co</b></div>
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My latest Etsy discovery and one that I immediately fell in love with Tinypix sells <b>the most beautiful prints that would look stunning in any child's bedroom or nursery</b>. Their Instagram feed is the epitome of decor inspiration for me at the moment (we are undergoing a few home improvements and doing some redecorating). I've ordered two prints from them already and will more than likely be ordering more once our back bedroom (where Eric is moving to) is painted. Everything they sell is created in <b>calming colours and serene tones</b> so are ideal no matter what your decor preferences (or that of anybody you are buying for) are.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDvU42Py3BhkhVMxTPZiix4rZJXeU3UqAug-K-ioPnpKKC6F3RMR67FFzO1TRkBHNzxFDK1KHC26jzuzcs-Whyx34A0lUyJ7JFNTIXJAd-PzpkoRQHN8WMOMZURXVMQscCc9NRnOkWsWNQ/s1600/new+sig.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="118" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDvU42Py3BhkhVMxTPZiix4rZJXeU3UqAug-K-ioPnpKKC6F3RMR67FFzO1TRkBHNzxFDK1KHC26jzuzcs-Whyx34A0lUyJ7JFNTIXJAd-PzpkoRQHN8WMOMZURXVMQscCc9NRnOkWsWNQ/s320/new+sig.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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Gingerjaxxhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00442902807148779977noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1229204795675051737.post-5190756921872470082019-03-14T13:55:00.003+00:002019-03-14T13:55:59.585+00:00What My Toddler Reads | Just Add Ginger <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Even from a very young age<b> I've made sure Eric has been exposed to books</b>. Whether it's sensory books, ones with touchy-feely bits or books from my own childhood, reading has been a big part of playtime for us. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTeyUu6oquHZz_yNN7aAUnRaGxvR2Ak6nnI2PWFakU9PC1FtG3HKnO_GyfGdnNxe8ZfBLPezAiIonfceitVuipo35W7-5Mxrk4-qrA3yEfclTpjSfAEJQQkjXktj7l_YYtzWsBN_WJUySm/s1600/eric+books.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="flat lay photograph of a selection of children's books, toys and a carved wooden name sign" border="0" data-original-height="1073" data-original-width="1600" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTeyUu6oquHZz_yNN7aAUnRaGxvR2Ak6nnI2PWFakU9PC1FtG3HKnO_GyfGdnNxe8ZfBLPezAiIonfceitVuipo35W7-5Mxrk4-qrA3yEfclTpjSfAEJQQkjXktj7l_YYtzWsBN_WJUySm/s640/eric+books.jpg" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
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Now that he is older his attention span it's a lot easier for us to sit down and read books <i>together</i>. And he now actually expresses interest in what he wants to read. He has a strong opinion. He will indicate to the book he wants us to look at or bring it over to me. And at nap time (the portion of the day when we do the most reading) we are so set in a routine that <b>he can anticipate what story is coming next and will get giddy and excited as I read / recite them to him</b>.</div>
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Even though Eric has quite the collection of books already that we do rotate weekly, here are the ones that have currently made their place in his firm favourites. I've picked a selection from his paperbacks rather than board books or hardbacks purely because the latter are the ones he has constant access to so will look at more independently. <b>These however, we tend to just read together as they are a bit more advanced for his age</b>.</div>
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<b><i>The Gruffalo by Julia Donaldson</i></b></div>
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<b>If you want Eric to know it's time to go to sleep then read him The Gruffalo</b>. It is such a strong part of our nap time ritual that I don't see it going anywhere anytime soon. He knows this book like the back of his hand and although he can't read along, he recognises what part we are up to depending on the intonation I use. I put on a voice for each of the characters and really get into acting this one out with facial expressions, hand gestures and alternating pace and tone of voice. And Eric <i>loves</i> it.</div>
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<b>The story is great for repetition and the illustrations by Axel Scheffler are just beautiful - perfect to talk through with little ones who are more advanced with their speech</b>. There's also a lovely little BBC adaptation that makes a great accompanying watch which I put on for Eric if I think he needs to calm down before bed.</div>
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<b><i>A Bun For Barney by Joyce Dunbar</i></b></div>
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This was one of my childhood books and I now think that it is unfortunately out of print. But it is a lovely, lovely book. Again<b> this is one of the books that is a part of our nap time routine</b> but one that I don't always use and therefore is less familiar a sleep trigger for Eric. </div>
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<b>The story is fabulous for counting and it even has a sweet moral about self-assertiveness</b> to it. The illustrations by Emilie Boon are very sweet and probably one of the most stand out features I remember as a child. They are done in such a way that your child can anticipate the next part of the story and are a great talking point.</div>
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<b><i>Cat's Cake by Richard Fowler </i></b></div>
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Again this is another book I've passed down to Eric from my childhood collection and it really shows. I loved this book so much when I was younger that some of the pages are being held together by sellotape that is about 25 years old. I absolutely adored this one and now Eric does too. </div>
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It is not as strong on the educational front but the story is engaging and easy to follow and gives mew lots of opportunities to put on voices and capture Eric's attention. Out of all of his paperback books this is probably the one he brings me the most to read outside of nap time (I keep all his paperbacks in his bedroom). </div>
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<b><i>The Happy Families Series by Janet & Allan Ahlberg</i></b></div>
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Once again. these used to be mine. However you can still buy the Happy Families books (mine are just much earlier editions). I chop and change the stories out if the collection so that we are not stuck in the same old cycle of books but Eric will contentedly sit and listen to all of them pre-nap. <b>Short and sweet, these stories are perfect if you want a five minute read before bed or while your little one is in the bath or in need of some quiet time</b>. From time to time Eric will bring me over one of these to read to him (I think this is based on the colour of the cover rather than the story though) but because he is not as used to hearing them he won't be as entertained for as long.</div>
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I'm a big fan of the Ahlberg books and this series is no exception. I used to have the stories on audio cassette as a little girl and now I've got the CD on pre-order from Amazon for Eric (we are big on audiobooks for car journeys or during independent play) and I can't wait to hear how they are narrated this time round.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf9yzVOyWnmxy-pGLiV7VsJjNy9w1ESgbrKeN9BjpYz_45g4eMQdDhyrkW3NAkoKkmNGi80vklnA9w6KCkv08iEywZXeO6bMyZhawH4C2YRZxtf8bwK6mrnEVvPTy4CKxc0B2VoGBbOKCA/s1600/books+pin.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="flat lay image of children's books and toys." border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf9yzVOyWnmxy-pGLiV7VsJjNy9w1ESgbrKeN9BjpYz_45g4eMQdDhyrkW3NAkoKkmNGi80vklnA9w6KCkv08iEywZXeO6bMyZhawH4C2YRZxtf8bwK6mrnEVvPTy4CKxc0B2VoGBbOKCA/s640/books+pin.png" title="" width="304" /></a></div>
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What books does your child love to read? Are there any titles or authors I should look out for? Let me know in the comments.</div>
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Gingerjaxxhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00442902807148779977noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1229204795675051737.post-18796960843343905132019-03-10T12:00:00.000+00:002019-03-10T12:00:08.240+00:005 Steps Towards A Calmer Pregnancy | Just Add Ginger <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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It has been one of my <b>biggest goals</b> this pregnancy <b>to stay a lot more relaxed</b>. But so much going on every day, a toddler to chase after and hormones raging around my body this can be really difficult. However, I've connected the dots that they more time I take to concentrate on myself - even if it's just for five minutes - the less anxious or stressed I feel and the more I actually enjoy being pregnant. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs1Z4hMKI-Me4ung3vy5TDhoTWJHWItEOpOeZcpGVvjDjyVWVPTeJJPccSK5NrcnpiZO6LieyJWlrAnHrAimR730sLHa7zlUwAqYUACJNoQoAZj0Pjj2O6dNe3VXZsRknYxC29MpYMnjlf/s1600/J+%252860%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="redhead woman laughing and looking off camera" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs1Z4hMKI-Me4ung3vy5TDhoTWJHWItEOpOeZcpGVvjDjyVWVPTeJJPccSK5NrcnpiZO6LieyJWlrAnHrAimR730sLHa7zlUwAqYUACJNoQoAZj0Pjj2O6dNe3VXZsRknYxC29MpYMnjlf/s640/J+%252860%2529.jpg" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
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Taking care of yourself at this time in your life is so important, and with that in mind I wanted to share five things I have been doing that help me switch off, unwind and feel a lot more at ease.</div>
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<b>1. Hypnobirthing. </b></div>
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This is something I started looking into when I was expecting Eric but never fully embraced. This time round I'm taking it more seriously. I'm feeling okay at the moment but I know the more I head towards labour the more wound up I'm going to be. So I'm doing all I can now to make sure I stay as calm and prepared as possible. I decided to invest in <b><a href="https://thepositivebirthcompany.co.uk/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Positive Birth Company</a>'s Digital Pack</b> and oh my god it is amazing. I'm learning so much about my body and listening to the affirmations and guided breathing techniques is an instant way to help me calm down. If there is ever a night I'm having trouble sleeping I'll plug in my headphones and watch / listen to a few of the course's 'lessons'. Siobhan's voice alone is just so relaxing and within a couple of minutes I'm drifting off to sleep.</div>
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The course is great for birth partners too and I've already signed Ryan up to do the course with me. Because if he understands pregnancy, labour and birth a bit more, the more understanding he will be and be able to support me in my journey to ultimate calm.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJILfaUNvTa8OVduJgd2odxt-LYTXkgK_kZdbQHVxk8N9aiTF9sQZfKJAzR-JzmQ9yVbjQdsF4T7cMcHiSwFkTYX5Ppv7sG7auRREt-wggXfnffhzgps5H4rOQtB4H3kam0zwvqV0JNbG_/s1600/J+%252864%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="photo shows a pregnant woman standing outside and looking off camera" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJILfaUNvTa8OVduJgd2odxt-LYTXkgK_kZdbQHVxk8N9aiTF9sQZfKJAzR-JzmQ9yVbjQdsF4T7cMcHiSwFkTYX5Ppv7sG7auRREt-wggXfnffhzgps5H4rOQtB4H3kam0zwvqV0JNbG_/s640/J+%252864%2529.jpg" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>2. Step Outside.</b></div>
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I'm a strong believer in spaces carrying energy and often, if I'm feeling particularly stressed (or grumpy) I know a change in environment is needed. And one of the best ways I gain clarity is by going outside. On the daily this could be opening the french windows and playing with Eric outside, or, if it's the weekend, it'll be going on a walk, or out for a coffee, or to feed the ducks. Simply getting out the house gives me the head space I need to get over a bad mood, refocus my mind, and forget what it was that was irking me in the first place.</div>
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<b>3. Keep Talking.</b></div>
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<b>One of my biggest failing last pregnancy was that I didn't speak up</b>. I didn't let people know how I was really feeling. This was mainly because I thought I should be happy and grateful to be pregnant, which of course I was. But this did not detract from the fact that I was also terrified. A midwife I spoke to recently said it sounded like I had been 'traumatised' by things in my last pregnancy and I agree with her. </div>
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<b>So now I am talking. I'm open and honest and truthful, no matter how crazy I think I sound</b>. If something's gotten under my skin I tell Ryan about it at the end of the day and if it's baby related I know my midwife is a text or call away from giving me advice. I cry if I want to and do you know what? It really, really helps.</div>
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<b>4. Make Some Room For 'Me Time'. </b></div>
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A cup of tea, an undisturbed bath or half an hour catching up with your favourite TV show....whatever you loved to do to unwind, now is the time to do it. <b>You deserve it</b>. With all the stresses and strains day to day life can bring it is really important to pencil some time into each day to have a breather, put your feet up and focus some energy completely on yourself. </div>
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For me, it's catching up on YouTube, having a hot shower with my Spotify playlists blaring out or just taking my mum hat off for an hour or two and letting Ryan take over. And yes sometimes I have to force myself to do these things or admit that I need some time to myself, but once I do I feel heaps better. </div>
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<b>5. Do What Makes You Happy.</b></div>
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Tuning in to what our bodies are trying to tell us is definitely really important. And whereas this can be about if we're feeling under the weather or concerned about anything it's also about being aware in other ways. Fancy that chocolate bar....eat it. Feeling constipated....eat some greens. Getting tired.....have a rest. Social media getting your down...have a digital detox. <b>Now more than ever is the perfect time to really think about things that are making you happy and things that just aren't</b>. Be selfish and put yourself first. You are okay to do that sometimes. </div>
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This time round I'm being a lot less hard on myself.<b> I'm unapologetic in my thinking about myself and I will quite happily switch off from the wider world if I need to</b>. I indulge in food that makes me happy, I am honest if I need five more minutes in bed, and firm when I need help. I exercise when I can and don't punish myself if I just can't be bothered. I have house days with Eric if I have no energy and eat healthily if I feel I really need it. And mostly, I'm true to how I'm feeling. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbOi0fUb-uCUmR2zYgfkb8ij6ckCiasA0HYnFDhyphenhyphenYmh5KluWS1ZkQ_WHdjtKmqEX5Gqx4o3FGyzU7SmRLbhCMepPW4K3l5Tgz_E9XW7Ivlud8T8AEo65rSV28u64uYILrxEyKGNi8bkIyg/s1600/calm+pregnancy.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="five steps towards a calmer pregnancy - pinterest friendly image" border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbOi0fUb-uCUmR2zYgfkb8ij6ckCiasA0HYnFDhyphenhyphenYmh5KluWS1ZkQ_WHdjtKmqEX5Gqx4o3FGyzU7SmRLbhCMepPW4K3l5Tgz_E9XW7Ivlud8T8AEo65rSV28u64uYILrxEyKGNi8bkIyg/s640/calm+pregnancy.png" title="" width="304" /></a></div>
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Pregnancy is such an unpredictable journey and there can be obstacles that you never dreamt of coming across, but if you put a few simple steps in motion to implement to when you are feeling overwhelmed or scared or stressed then I think you are on the right track to a more relaxed experience. </div>
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What are some of the things you do to keep calm? Is there anything you think I should try? Let me know in the comments. </div>
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Gingerjaxxhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00442902807148779977noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1229204795675051737.post-11756769321095832042019-03-07T12:00:00.000+00:002019-03-07T12:00:06.781+00:00Why I Left | Just Add Ginger<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Before the end of last year I thought that <b>all my erratic vanishing from the blogging world was over</b>. However, that was before we found out some exceptionally big news in the Autumn. </div>
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If you haven't guessed already or seen my announcements on social media then SURPRISE - Ryan and I are expecting again. Our second little precious bundle is baking away and due to arrive in the summer. </div>
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We had been thinking about when we wanted to try for a second baby for a while and <b>whereas I was so excited for Eric to have a sibling I was also so confused about what it meant for me as a parent</b>. I mean - going from zero to one baby is one thing, but then one to two.... WOW! Add to that my one-handed approach to all things parenting and I would instantly be outnumbered. </div>
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It also came down to the fact that<b> Eric isn't talking yet</b>. Now I'm not putting pressure on him but out of all of his little friends he is a tad behind on uttering those first precious words. They are coming. Just slower than I thought But then what he lacks in speech he makes up for in motor skills and movement. He doesn't ever bloody keep still. A whirlwind of independence and energy he forever keeps me and Ryan on our toes and only really stops when he is sleeping. In terms of toddler, he requires <i>a lot</i> of attention. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaq_IfcukSbdoz7hgxi3zYCiouevZVl2K8zmCYzOQJmmIM8FC4pQmxtYfHriydZ_jDtLSbajRIWUXtyY_KbSB0LNSR2rwkod0wDIMjvH4k5g3kYoW27Lg4c_jQwaiYqFJRT32G1y-7LDjv/s1600/J+%252866%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="pregnant woman standing outside looking down and cradling her bump" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaq_IfcukSbdoz7hgxi3zYCiouevZVl2K8zmCYzOQJmmIM8FC4pQmxtYfHriydZ_jDtLSbajRIWUXtyY_KbSB0LNSR2rwkod0wDIMjvH4k5g3kYoW27Lg4c_jQwaiYqFJRT32G1y-7LDjv/s640/J+%252866%2529.jpg" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
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But then one day I think it hit me that no matter what gap there was in between babies there were always going to be obstacles. And <b>I wasn't going to let that hold me back</b>. So come the Autumn Ryan and I knew that we were ready and as before we made no plans to try. We were just going to see what happened. </div>
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Finding out I was pregnant this time round was a whole different kettle of fish. I didn't think I was but then after doing a pregnancy test that made me think I was going insane (you can hear more about that in my <b><a href="https://youtu.be/_ZhPdpEYGsU" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">YouTube announcement video</a></b>) I found myself taking another one when I was alone in the house and having a little freak out on the toilet.</div>
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<b>It was all very exciting but I needed to take some time out and gather myself</b>. With my previous pregnancy being a bit choppy I wanted to take proper care of myself and approach everything with optimistic caution. I suffered quite badly with feelings of anxiousness after giving birth to Eric (I think everything that happened during the pregnancy caught up with me) and I just didn't want to let that happen again. I needed to practise some self-care.</div>
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So that is what I have been doing.<b> I've been taking care of me</b>. There have been lots of naps, extra scans and hospital appointment. There have been lots of tears, cuddles and squeals of delight. And I'm doing so much better than I ever thought I could. </div>
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But now I am back. I'm slowly stepping foot back into the blogosphere and starting to play catch up with myself. I've missed blogging so much - even just sitting don writing this post my fingers have never felt so happy. My mind is buzzing again and creativity is flowing. And it feels <i>amazing</i>.</div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Imagery: <a href="https://rachelclarkephotography.co.uk/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Rachel Clarke Photography</a></span></i></div>
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Gingerjaxxhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00442902807148779977noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1229204795675051737.post-91059021752746707302018-11-18T12:00:00.000+00:002019-03-02T12:39:51.235+00:005 Reasons Why I Love Toddler Sense | Just Add Ginger<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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As a full time mummy, knowing what classes are best to take Eric to has been a huge learning curve. He is a toddler who never likes to keep still so finding a class with the perfect balance of free play and time where he needs to sit and focus has been tricky.</div>
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<b>I started taking Eric to Baby Sensory when he was four months old</b> and, although at first it was a little difficult (read more about that <a href="http://www.justadd-ginger.co.uk/2018/11/the-pressures-of-new-parenthood-just.html" target="_blank">here</a>), as he grew he started to get so much out of being there. And by the time he was on the cusp of being too old, <b>transitioning him on to Toddler Sense seemed the logical step</b>. </div>
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And now I don't know where we would be without it as part of our routine. It's something we both look forward going to each week and afterwards Eric is absolutely knackered (which is a huge bonus). </div>
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So - if you have a little one of a similar age and you're looking for a new class to go to, here are five reasons why I love Toddler Sense.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBT0jWDy7lWYKqw1gVyC0Pvu5L7t5-Pbs0OxQ1rWXy9UE1xUUc7UVaQWgLftVo31ejiYBdKtAEHpBCSTgMnJoT-9cDe-DrgS8sYcoQ78S_r8eO8NAemyiMSBCgFXM3aGNsY09xIsQ30Kc7/s1600/42121330_1972280573064801_2835208873885827072_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="image of toddler sense mascot 'Tod' surrounded by a bright border and Toddler Sense logo" border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBT0jWDy7lWYKqw1gVyC0Pvu5L7t5-Pbs0OxQ1rWXy9UE1xUUc7UVaQWgLftVo31ejiYBdKtAEHpBCSTgMnJoT-9cDe-DrgS8sYcoQ78S_r8eO8NAemyiMSBCgFXM3aGNsY09xIsQ30Kc7/s640/42121330_1972280573064801_2835208873885827072_n.jpg" title="toddler sense liverpool - just add ginger blog" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>1. It's Run With Enthusiasm</b></div>
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I'm not saying other classes aren't, but our class leader at Toddler Sense works her socks off during our session and we're only the first of the day. How she finds so much energy is beyond me. But she puts in 110% every week, interacting and engaging with the children, singing her heart out and leading the activities with vigour. And this enthusiasm is infectious. Before you know it you are sitting there smiling and humming away and having as much - if not more - fun as your toddler. And because all the adults are there having a good time, this rubs off on the children. The atmosphere is infectious and you just can't help but be in a good mood (even if your child is constantly running as far away from you as possible.....I'm looking at you Eric!)</div>
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<b>2. It's Okay If Your Child Doesn't Join In </b></div>
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So let's talk about that. You know how I mentioned that Eric doesn't keep still? Well at Toddler Sense that's okay. Because he's surrounded by children of a similar age doing exactly the same. It's expected. And the room is set up in such a way that it is pretty much safe no matter where they run. You find yourself catching the eye of the parent next to you and stifling a laugh as if to say <i>'here we go again'</i>. </div>
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The set up of the space we are in at our class also means that even if Eric does run away and has no interest in going back to the main activity, there's plenty of room for us to do our own thing not to far away. Whether that's watching, dancing, or more likely me stopping him from trying to rearrange the furniture. There's no judgement and no embarrassment. And ultimately, the session is so interactive that they absorb everything irregardless of what they are doing.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgds_9h8z4UkYow117J1pEFk0IoM5jDE11HKWeEwhCXcNx1DD-qyj5qqcoIcDgqbHoVeRZr5ULoL0p0oeSAveGYaCBn-W-HxaEnETRs2IMb8n7kFedtlGDyJZ4yNsoBMG17JS7E6ogqKabP/s1600/42085523_659071857811739_6427977325119275008_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="toddler sense stock image - woman and toddler playing with a doll" border="0" data-original-height="887" data-original-width="1334" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgds_9h8z4UkYow117J1pEFk0IoM5jDE11HKWeEwhCXcNx1DD-qyj5qqcoIcDgqbHoVeRZr5ULoL0p0oeSAveGYaCBn-W-HxaEnETRs2IMb8n7kFedtlGDyJZ4yNsoBMG17JS7E6ogqKabP/s640/42085523_659071857811739_6427977325119275008_n.jpg" title="toddler sense liverpool - just add ginger blog" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtX4V7nMyCRJgapHFa4wB29_fnMn2G5lSJqs-6z7lBto9SvM5b9QSFElGWVtJ7DDWeJXb6heCR19rsxZbH5bhoxdX7Ixg_p0pcGBPDcRJIFtfT0f2F6m0c7E6k-4FsBPIjbd6D8CO4TMAX/s1600/41980750_933323280189621_2930383360595329024_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="toddler sense liverpool room setup" border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1334" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtX4V7nMyCRJgapHFa4wB29_fnMn2G5lSJqs-6z7lBto9SvM5b9QSFElGWVtJ7DDWeJXb6heCR19rsxZbH5bhoxdX7Ixg_p0pcGBPDcRJIFtfT0f2F6m0c7E6k-4FsBPIjbd6D8CO4TMAX/s640/41980750_933323280189621_2930383360595329024_n.jpg" title="toddler sense liverpool - just add ginger blog" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>3. It's Different Each Week </b></div>
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This isn't your average soft play session ... oh no! Every week we have been to Toddler Sense it has been a different theme, with a slightly different room configuration, different toys and equipment and different directed activities. You step into the room each week not knowing just what to expect and it's a feast for your senses. Your toddler never gets bored by seeing the same things and there are naturally going to be weeks that appeal more to them depending on their interests. </div>
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<b>4. It Tires Eric Out </b></div>
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A slightly selfish point but I don't care. Eric needs his naps and taking him to Toddler Sense each week is an absolute guarantee that he will get one. He's running around so much and so engaged with everything that afterwards he is just zonked. It'a brilliant. He usually nods off in the car and I gently carry him upstairs when we get home where he carries on sleeping for at least another hour, meaning I get to have a hot coffee and a sit down in peace without being dragged around the house. </div>
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<i>NB: I've clearly just jinxed myself by making this point, so I'll get back to you with if this is all still true! </i></div>
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<b>5. Toddlers Learns Through Play </b></div>
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You may just think this is all about playing but it really isn't. Eric learns so much from going to Toddler Sense. From how to interact with other children to independence, understanding his own limits, listening, tidying up, and even getting involved in a bit of risky play. It also lets toddlers direct play for themselves and because everything is open I'm not frantically following after Eric wondering where he's gone. I leave him to it and stay a step or two behind so that I'm there for him to interact with should he want to.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7qWEjqLHhWSdoPmzONAS-1lcdA39Ant2iGv2gj1cRwVZsGMAGsoOyPVLte3-GHwU1yLy85VKYvVJsjzoQoGzCOt5M0Bvz3DMY6MecZyuAHTxZMQHw9x3_ZiOA8fEJYJrpzLVPb4Kn0fO8/s1600/Toddler+Sense+pin.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="image box with text that reads ' 5 Reasons Why I Love Toddler Sense' " border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7qWEjqLHhWSdoPmzONAS-1lcdA39Ant2iGv2gj1cRwVZsGMAGsoOyPVLte3-GHwU1yLy85VKYvVJsjzoQoGzCOt5M0Bvz3DMY6MecZyuAHTxZMQHw9x3_ZiOA8fEJYJrpzLVPb4Kn0fO8/s640/Toddler+Sense+pin.png" title="" width="304" /></a></div>
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Do you and your little one go to a Toddler Sense class? Let me know what you think of them and leave me a comment below.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDvU42Py3BhkhVMxTPZiix4rZJXeU3UqAug-K-ioPnpKKC6F3RMR67FFzO1TRkBHNzxFDK1KHC26jzuzcs-Whyx34A0lUyJ7JFNTIXJAd-PzpkoRQHN8WMOMZURXVMQscCc9NRnOkWsWNQ/s1600/new+sig.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="118" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDvU42Py3BhkhVMxTPZiix4rZJXeU3UqAug-K-ioPnpKKC6F3RMR67FFzO1TRkBHNzxFDK1KHC26jzuzcs-Whyx34A0lUyJ7JFNTIXJAd-PzpkoRQHN8WMOMZURXVMQscCc9NRnOkWsWNQ/s320/new+sig.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Images: c/o Toddler Sense North Liverpool</i></span></div>
Gingerjaxxhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00442902807148779977noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1229204795675051737.post-88475094040606846242018-11-14T12:00:00.000+00:002018-11-14T12:00:06.020+00:00My Big Chop For Charity | Just Add Ginger<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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I have always considered my hair my biggest accessory. It's big, it's red and although most of the time it looks an absolute mess, I really think it makes me stand out. And for years now I have wanted to get it to a good enough condition where I feel like I could happily donate it and not feel embarrassed about it. </div>
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And finally that time is nearly here. At the start of 2019 I will be saying goodbye to my fiery golden locks and embarking on a big hair change. The bleach that totally ravaged my hair has nearly grown out and I can't use excuses to put off the process any longer. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIzH5N9V64sUGZ4DQkhWBpYL1FbQCkFcvz_7eP4-EjrZnRCbv38XqZJMpWknjdVsVWpiDCbe5WJcasUdsG1RmMJUwv1QhKhwEaB3PsKX_oi-zK3LfHEjtr3tX6G8SigasO-Vw5Mea2EJum/s1600/chop.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="woman sitting outside in a park wearing a faux fur coat and looking off camera" border="0" data-original-height="1177" data-original-width="1600" height="470" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIzH5N9V64sUGZ4DQkhWBpYL1FbQCkFcvz_7eP4-EjrZnRCbv38XqZJMpWknjdVsVWpiDCbe5WJcasUdsG1RmMJUwv1QhKhwEaB3PsKX_oi-zK3LfHEjtr3tX6G8SigasO-Vw5Mea2EJum/s640/chop.jpg" title="the big chop - just add ginger blog" width="640" /></a></div>
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On 26th January<b> I will be cutting off as many inches of my hair as I can to donate to Little Princess Trust</b> - a charity who make wigs for children who may have lost their hair due to illness or through cancer treatment. <b>Hand in hand with this I will be raising money for the Liverpool Women's Charity</b>. I had Eric at the Liverpool Women's Hospital and had the best birth experience and aftercare so I really want to do all I can to support the work they do and show my appreciation for what the hospital has done for me. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCudSwLeXt21kyyRLAdB0aSxRpT3OfKzAx3M7uyurI01bfe7rtlZ2q7tNAeUMzyjv5p6bMS9yCJ8cBT6cNY75f7OEdQjxomcESwG68ttVnZfHsjC3A7OWdkC2IsuF3QipuEKcb_NB7gr9u/s1600/Jacqueline+%252850%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="woman standing in front of yellow flowers in bowler hat and looking at the camera posing" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCudSwLeXt21kyyRLAdB0aSxRpT3OfKzAx3M7uyurI01bfe7rtlZ2q7tNAeUMzyjv5p6bMS9yCJ8cBT6cNY75f7OEdQjxomcESwG68ttVnZfHsjC3A7OWdkC2IsuF3QipuEKcb_NB7gr9u/s640/Jacqueline+%252850%2529.jpg" title="the big chop - just add ginger blog" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaaL1FFkP6WCAiyMtRKefQwCx1AwpcWKdrHi7vclwZ2gK5GqBcaNcAhuR_LKSXBn0oxKhJd-xwxvG8As_ZpQhrCeGZOyZMK9hDXNX_SNevs7fPkmFLmK74pxyOC1E0orQTZWi3IMJayaVs/s1600/Jacqueline+%252846%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="woman standing in front of yellow flowers in bowler hat and looking at the ground smiling " border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaaL1FFkP6WCAiyMtRKefQwCx1AwpcWKdrHi7vclwZ2gK5GqBcaNcAhuR_LKSXBn0oxKhJd-xwxvG8As_ZpQhrCeGZOyZMK9hDXNX_SNevs7fPkmFLmK74pxyOC1E0orQTZWi3IMJayaVs/s640/Jacqueline+%252846%2529.jpg" title="the big chop - just add ginger blog" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>Saying goodbye to my hair isn't going to be easy </b>(I will probably cry) and it took me a long time to settle on a date to do it. Normally I try and d a charity walk each year or more active fundraiser but I just couldn't this year. I am really attached to it and love feeling it swish around my shoulders. But there are so many children, young people and adults out there who do not lose their hair by choice that I can't feel sorry for myself. </div>
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This is not a post to ask for donations. It is more for me to mark what is going to happen (so I don't feel like chickening out). It is also to help raise awareness for the charities I have mentioned and to hopefully help inspire anyone reading this to consider organising and hosting a fundraising event for a charity <i>you</i> care about. It doesn't matter what you do - big or small - but there are some really deserving causes out there that need support, so why not reach out and see what you can do to help. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDvU42Py3BhkhVMxTPZiix4rZJXeU3UqAug-K-ioPnpKKC6F3RMR67FFzO1TRkBHNzxFDK1KHC26jzuzcs-Whyx34A0lUyJ7JFNTIXJAd-PzpkoRQHN8WMOMZURXVMQscCc9NRnOkWsWNQ/s1600/new+sig.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="118" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDvU42Py3BhkhVMxTPZiix4rZJXeU3UqAug-K-ioPnpKKC6F3RMR67FFzO1TRkBHNzxFDK1KHC26jzuzcs-Whyx34A0lUyJ7JFNTIXJAd-PzpkoRQHN8WMOMZURXVMQscCc9NRnOkWsWNQ/s320/new+sig.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Bottom Lifestyle Imagery: Rachel Clarke Photography</i></span></div>
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Gingerjaxxhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00442902807148779977noreply@blogger.com0