A Little Sister

The school holidays have been an adjustment for us all - six weeks of having four children full time.  A new baby to challenge and develop existing relationships, so much time together, so many opportunities.  The boys have always been close, but they are used to their time apart, to spending time with other children and in different situations.  This summer has been about us.

Dylan and Archie are the best of friends, of course they fight like only brothers can, but they play so well together, they chat and giggle and create and bond.  There are 18 months between them and that age gap shrinks the longer they are together.  Finn has always been the baby, but since Cora arrived he has had to step up, and he is changing so much now, desperate to join in with his brothers, determined in everything he does.

And these three boys of mine, they have a baby sister.  They are learning all over again, finding their place in the new dynamics of our family and having to share me with another (demanding) little person.

They adore her, all three of them and I am so thankful that her entrance has been so smooth.  Dylan regularly declares her to be his best friend and he lays next to her, his hand on hers as he sucks his thumb and stares at her.  He is convinced that he is her favourite as she gives him the most smiles and talks about the things he will do with her.

Archie's caring side comes out around Cora and he starts singing her nursery rhymes as soon as she starts crying.  He is curious about her and asks to have her on his lap the most.  Sometimes he is a little too curious and tries to lift her up, not entirely gently but mostly he strokes her lovingly.

And Finn, the boy who has been our baby for so long, and who loved his role as the youngest has surprised me with his lack of jealousy.  As soon as Cora is low enough for him to reach he crawls or toddles over with the biggest grin on his face to give her kisses.  He is gentle, he pats her, strokes her hair and kisses her on the forehead.  He may try and crawl over her at times, or give her the biggest cuddles when she is just trying to get some sleep, but you can see how desperate he is for her to be bigger and more responsive.  He loves an audience and he is going to be the star of the show once his little sister is able to give him more attention.

When Cora is awake, they are less interested in each other and more interested in her, each one vying for a space in her eye line.  She watches them calmly and with interest, sharing more of her smiles with her brothers than she does with me.  They don't have to work as hard or be there at the right time of the day.  At 8 weeks old she is already used to the chaos that comes with being the youngest of four and she is happy (so far) with her place in this family.

These boys of mine have taken to their baby sister so naturally,  they have made the transition from three to four so much easier and she is a lucky little girl to have three big brothers.  I never imagined a little girl in our future but it feels like she has been around forever already. 

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Graco Evo XT Review

The Graco Evo XT is an all terrain buggy suitable from birth and we were sent one to test for Finn. For me, the most important features of a pushchair are the ability to parent face and a big basket and as this ticked both boxes, I was excited to try it out.  The Evo XT is easy to put together and only took me a few minutes.  The trickiest bit was the pin in the back wheels but once you get the first one in the second one seems so much easier!

The seat unit seemed pretty generous and Finn fits in comfortably.  At 17 months his legs fit perfectly  and he has space to grow upwards.  The seat sits pretty upright as well as lying flat which is ideal for a nosy toddler.  I like how flat it lays for his when he is asleep and it means I can use it for Cora too if I want to swap them around.

The hood is generous and protects well from the elements.  When the seat is reclined it creates a huge amount of shade which is ideal for creating a good napping environment or keeping little ones out of the sun or wind.  

The handlebar is adjustable and at five foot nine I found it most comfortable when it was pushed upwards.  It was easy to change and to tuck away when we are storing it or on public transport as it folds right underneath.

The basket is very important to me as with four children I carry around a lot!  It was really generous and I could fit in my changing bag, blankets, jumpers and still have space.  It was easier to access when the seat unit is facing out, but I could get everything in and out just fine with the seat parent facing too.  

This pushchair is designed to handle rough terrains and I have found it great to use at the park.  We haven't been anywhere more adventurous to test it yet, but pushing it though parks, around town and on the school run it handles well.  The front wheels are lockable and the large back wheels help it move easily and it is comfortable and easy to push.

This pushchair folds in one piece, although it is best when the seat is world facing, which we never really do.  It is not as compact as an umbrella fold stroller, but smaller when folded than your average travel system.  Generally I would say its place is somewhere in the middle.  The Evo XT is easy to manoevre, light and collapsible like a stroller, yet has the large basket, the parent facing option and the adjustable handlebar of a travel system.  It is suitable from birth and offers protection from a newborn without needing a carrycot and would be a great option if you want to buy just one well chosen pushchair to last your child from birth until they no longer need it.  It is compatible with a carrycot and car seat so you can turn it into a travel system and comes complete with a raincover and footmuff (although it has been too warm for us to test the footmuff just yet)

The design is simple, well built and sturdy and we are enjoying using the Graco Evo XT.

I was sent this pushchair for the purpose of this review but all thoughts and opinions are completely my own. 

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What the Kids Wore - Busy Little Bee

There is something so wonderful about having clothes made especially for you.  Something so satisfying when asked where something is from and answering that it is a one of a kind piece, unique and handmade.  I love supporting small businesses and work at home mums, I love finding the perfect item and I love these clothes made by Katie at Busy Little Bee.

Katie has such a huge array of fabrics it is incredibly hard to pick what you want, and there are so many different style of clothes.  You can mix and match different prints, experiment with pockets and hoods and she works with you to get everything just right.  Finn's romper is perfect for the summer as it keeps his knees covered whilst he crawls but his arms out and the cuffs mean it doesn't pull over his feet.   I think we will pop a vest underneath to help it see him through Autumn too.  I adore this lolly print and the grey stripes go perfectly.  We have so many compliments everywhere we go.

Archie's trousers are ideal for a busy three year old and since he decided that he hates jeans and anything restrictive I have been hunting for more fun and stretchy trousers for him.  Covered in monster trucks which are quite frankly his favourite thing, he picks these out as soon as they are clean in his wardrobe again and the stretchy waistband fits perfectly on his slim waist.

Dylan's t-shirt is a little bit more grown up, but still playful and comfy.  He loves the print and it is great for making up stories with.  He is starting to have an input in what he wears and if he doesn't consider it 'cool' then he won't touch it so this tee definitely passed the test.

Cora was sent an amazing pair of bib shorts with a co-ordinating top.  I just adore this style on babies and I love the colours and prints on her.  It is perfect for the hot summer days we have been having and just so sweet - who can resist little baby knees on show!

And it isn't just children who should get great clothes! I am often wearing cheap clothes that have been sat in my wardrobe for years whilst my children enjoy beautiful new things each season.  Katie makes adult clothes too perfect for pregnancy, breastfeeding and beyond.  This skirt adds a wonderful splash of colour into my wardrobe and is so comfy on my post-baby belly too.  Having to go back to buttons and stiffer waistbands the next day is always tough!

These clothes are all exquisitely made and perfect for active, growing children (and adults).  With so many styles and colours from simple and plain to completely eccentric there is definitely something for everyone!

Disclosure:  I was sent these items free of charge but it was my choice to blog about them and all photos and opinions are completely my own.

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Share Your Outdoors

My memories of childhood involve building sandcastles on the beach, swimming in the sea, climbing trees, rolling down grassy slopes and being outdoors.  My childhood was before the days of laptops and tablets, when kids TV was only on for a short while each day and when playing 'out' on the street was the normal.

My children are growing up in a different time - technology is everywhere, staying indoors is becoming more fun and too many things are considered too dangerous for them.  We still love getting out though, exploring our environment, discovering nature in all its glory.

This is what our outdoors looks like . . .

Being outdoors means fresh air, dirty fingernails, scuffed knees, windswept hair, worn out children, blue skies and feeling good.  Our go-to spot is always the beach - it is only a short walk from our house and the possibilities are endless.  We never get fed up of going, we never get bored and there is something so healing about watching the tide

We have a harbour down at our local beach and it is the perfect spot to sit and watch.  The water lies more still, the boats all line up and there is so much to take in.  We sit outside and eat our ice cream discussing which boat we would like and why and we love to watch the world go by.

There is nothing quite like the freedom of exploring the woods - there are insects to discover, log piles to navigate and trees to climb on.  There is always something new to discover and their imaginations run wild.

The Aspinall Foundation are asking bloggers to #ShareYourOutdoors for a chance to win some amazing prizes and I nominate Victoria (VeViVos), Hayley (Sparkles and Stretchmarks ), Sushi (Beach, Walk, Muse), Kara (innocent Charms Chats) and Jennie (Edspire) to take part.  You can win an overnight stay at Pinewood Shepherds Hut including dinner and breakfast!

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My Breastfeeding Essentials

Cora is the fourth baby I have breastfed.  I fed her brothers for different lengths of time and I have no clear idea of how long I intend to feed her for yet.  I know that at the moment it is working for both of us and I hope that we have many more months left.  I love everything about breastfeeding, how easy it is once you get past the initial hurdles, how cheap it is, how lazy I can be, how much less I have to carry in my changing bag.  I love the bond it gives me with my babies and the fact that as soon as they start crying they come straight back to me.

I really believe that the only things you need to breastfeed are you and your baby, but that doesn't mean that there aren't products that make things easier and comfier along the way.  These are my breastfeeding essentials:

1) LanaCare breastpads - These are so comfortable and made from wool which contains natural Lanolin.  They are huge and cover the entire breast as well as helping to protect from mastitus and blocked ducts (which I have been lucky enough to have never suffered from) and they are low maintenance.  I have never leaked through them or had any issues.

2) Lanolin cream - Babies can take time to get a good latch - after all they are learning too, and evenings spent cluster feeding can leave your nipples feeling rather sore.  Lanolin cream is by far the best I have tried and you can leave it on to feed unlike some alternatives that need to be washed off first.

3) A nursing dress - this may not make everyone's essential list but I love wearing dresses and made sure I bought a few that were feeding friendly so that I didn't feel so restricted in what I wear.  Check out Frugi, JoJo Maman Bebe and Tiny Vikings

4) Plain Vests - I have a huge drawer full of plain vests which I now wear under everything.  I cover them with a nice top and when I need to feed I use the 'one up one down' approach.  The top comes up and the vest pulls down so that I can feed baby without getting a cold tummy.  I love the H&M longer ones and they are only around £4 each

5) Food and Drink - It is so easy to forget to eat properly with a newborn and I seem to be constantly thirsty when I am breastfeeding.  I have a whole stash of water bottles in the fridge so that I can always have one with me and I don't have to worry about spilling it (or the boys spilling it!).  Having snack bars makes life so much easier too and you can get ones that are specifically designed for breastfeeding mamas like Nutrimum and Freida's Pantry which are packed full of vitamins.

Whilst you can feed a baby without any of these things, these are my essentials for making life easier and more comfortable.  What are your breastfeeding must-haves?

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The Last Firsts

Every first is exciting and we are experiencing them so regularly.  First smiles, first steps, first day at school.  Dylan had his first sports day recently and it was amazing watching him run alongside his class,  playing as a team, jumping in a sack.  With Cora we are dealing with the last firsts though.  She is our last baby, the final member of our team and her firsts will be the last ones we marvel at, the last ones I photograph with joy, the last ones we proudly share with the world.  

Cora's first day was the last time I will hold a brand new baby of my own.  Her first bath was the last time I will cuddle a baby so tiny in the water, her first steps will signify the end of having a baby in our house.

Everything about knowing she is our last baby is emotional.  I love this stage, the squishy newborn bubble of sleep deprivation, nappy changing and sleepy cuddles.  I know how quickly these early days go and I still can't get my head around the fact that this baby girl of ours is already six weeks old.  Every day feels so precious knowing I will never hold my baby this small and fragile again.  Every first of hers is a last for me and every day, week and month that passes is a step closer to the next stage and the end of this one.

Dylan's first are so exciting, a step forward, something new for us all.  Archie's are anticipated and amazing still, Finn's are so special as we remember how far he has come and Cora's are wonderful and slightly sad at the same time.  Today I packed away her 'up to one month' clothes, and they are going to be passed on to another newborn, not saved for one of mine.

This is the last time I will watch the boys welcome a new sibling, watch their faces as they take in how tiny this new person is, watch the beginnings of their relationship.  I am taking comfort in the fact I get to watch it all develop, see them grow together hoping the four of them stay close.

The first big smile that I am so eagerly awaiting will be the last time I spend so long trying to get a baby to show me affection.  The first time Cora starts to crawl will be the last time that we babyproof the house, her first day of school will by the end of having a child at home.  I am so excited to be part of their childhoods, so blessed to be their mother and get to experience it all, but please can we just slow things down a little? I am not ready for any more last firsts.

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iCandy Peach Blossom

With two children that can't yet walk, a double buggy is a part of our everyday life and Finn and Cora have been enjoying their new set of wheels.  We bought our first iCandy pushchair when we were pregnant with Dylan over 5 years ago and they are a brand that we trust and love.  The iCandy Peach Blossom is a versatile double travel system which I have found comfortable for both children, easy to push and ideal for getting around.

This pushchair can be used for two newborns, two toddlers or a newborn and toddler.  Both positions can be used with a carrycot, car seat or child seat although so far we have only used it in the combo shown in these pictures.

Cora has a carrycot on the bottom and unlike the apple2pear this one is rigid.  It feels and looks secure and snug and is easy to attach and remove.  The carrycot, like with most double buggies, is relatively small but Cora fits perfectly and still has growing room in all directions.  It is suitable for overnight sleeping and we often use it for daytime naps if she lets me put her down.

Finn sits up top at the moment and as a large 17 month old he still has plenty of space.  The straps are easy to adjust and do up and he loves his new ride.  The seat can be reclined easily and Finn has no problem falling asleep in there.  In this mode, the seats both face outwards, but when we change to two seats we can have them both facing in, with the top seat closer to me.  I do miss having Finn facing me and that is one of the only changes I would make to the peach blossom.

The peach is easy to fold, but both seats and the adaptors need to be removed first.  It doesn't take long and everything slots back in to place very easily.  The chassis has a long strap so that it can be carried over one shoulder and that has been brilliant when taking it out and into the car.

The black chassis really stands out and I love the colours of this pushchair.  I chose it knowing I would be using it for both a boy and girl and I love pushing it.  We are finding that the black frame scratches more than our others but with four small children to hustle out the door each morning it may be the way we treat things.

This pushchair can also be used as a single and I have loved taking it out with just one baby in it as well.  In double mode with a carrycot the basket size is limited ( but still able to fit in two raincovers, two blankets and jumpers for all four children) but in single mode the basket is huge and perfect for shopping!

I love pushing the peach and can do so one handed with no problems.  Curbs are easy to manoever and it is much lighter than I expected considering there are two children in there.  We have the seat unit ready for when Cora is sitting up so I will update this post when we have given it a good go with two full size seats.

I love this pushchair and it fits our needs perfectly at the moment.  Both children are comfortable and secure and I love the way it feels to push.  This buggy looks great and we have so many compliments.  

The Peach Blossom is currently £955 for the main components, and then an extra £172.50 for the carrycot.  There are lots of other co-ordinated accessories you can buy from footmuffs to travel bags to cup holders.  

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