tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-50335111827720841242024-03-05T09:10:31.608+00:00Fun with the FamilyAdventures of the Flynn family!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07405533729358668746noreply@blogger.comBlogger69125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5033511182772084124.post-53469424572107223232016-06-03T21:08:00.001+01:002016-06-03T21:09:16.681+01:00The Parlour at Blagdon, Heavenly Afternoon<div style="text-align: justify;">
As you may have guessed from most of my posts, our social lives are mainly geared around the children. Whether it be swimming/dance/kick boxing lessons or driving about to friends parties and after school activities, it doesn't leave a great deal of time (or money) for adult enjoyment!</div>
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I decided to put that right recently and set about organising an afternoon tea for my family and friends. I like to do something a little different and I had spotted a girl singing group on Facebook that I LOVED the look of. I am absolutely positive I was born to be in a different era, I love anything vintage and adore all the era's of the past. History has always been my passion and I saw a perfect opportunity here.</div>
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<a href="http://thedoowopdollies.co.uk/">The Doo Wop Dollies</a> are a vintage female singing group based here in the north east, I knew there and then that I needed them at my event. </div>
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The venue I found was just perfect. I wanted somewhere intimate and also somewhere we could have a delicious tea in a lovely surrounding. I found <a href="http://theparlouratblagdon.co.uk/">The Parlour at Blagdon</a> online and after a bit of research I decided that was the place for me. </div>
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The Parlour is just outside Cramlington near Northumberlandia and is just quite simply beautiful. From the moment I made my initial enquiry I knew we were in safe hands as the customer service I received from Martin was wonderful and nothing was too much hassle.</div>
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I gathered a group of lovely ladies (and 1 man) together and set a date. That was that. Everything was taken care of by The Doo Wop Dollies and The Parlour and I was both extremely grateful and impressed.</div>
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Upon arrival I was blown away by the place. I had never been before and it was just so lovely, Tucked away not too far from the Holiday Inn at Seaton Burn this truly is a hidden gem. The tearoom was bustling with people and it had a lovely quaint feel to it.</div>
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We had been allocated the Willow Room for our function and it was delightful. Light, airy and with that serene vintage theme, I loved it.</div>
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A glass of chilled prosecco was waiting for us upon arrival and immediately all was right with the world!</div>
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The lovely ladies from The Doo Wop Dollies were already there and starting to unpack for their set. They were fabulous and extremely flexible, just happy to work around us and our cake! </div>
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Once everyone had arrived, our fantastic waitress started to bring in our food. I have to admit at this point we were a bit of a pain moving tables and chairs about but nothing fazed her and she just worked around us.</div>
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My goodness, the afternoon tea was superb. There were tons of dainty sandwiches, freshly baked scones with jam and cream and gorgeous desserts, including panna cotta which is my ultimate favourite dessert.</div>
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The the girls began to sing. I had chosen the Land Girls package which was perfect. It was a 45 minute set featuring songs from the 1920's, 30's and 40's. They were fabulous and it was a perfect setting. The songs were all well known songs so we were able to have a good old sing a long, I particularly like The Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy, brilliant!</div>
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All too soon the performance ended but not before they had brought a lot of us to tears with their gorgeous rendition of White Cliffs of Dover. The girls were happy to spend some time getting many, many photographs with us before departing and leaving us to finish up our afternoon with a few more (bottles of) prosecco.</div>
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I had an absolute ball at our Vintage Afternoon Tea. I was so pleased with the setting, the food was amazing and the Doo Wop Dollies were perfect. It was just a wonderful afternoon and I am looking forward to putting the event together again next year. This time I think I am going for their 'Through the Decades' set list which even includes the Spice Girls! What more could a girl want?</div>
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Thank you again to all at the Parlour and the Dollies, as well as my wonderful friends and family for making it an afternoon to truly never forget.</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07405533729358668746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5033511182772084124.post-71041773347168452202015-08-24T10:36:00.001+01:002015-08-24T10:36:08.921+01:00Mr Stink was Awesome<div style="text-align: justify;">
Having been up to <a href="http://www.alnwickgarden.com/default.aspx">Alnwick Garden</a> earlier in the summer to see a wonderful production of <a href="http://mammyflynnfuntimes.blogspot.co.uk/2015/08/the-secret-garden-in-garden.html">The Secret Garden</a>, my daughter and I were very keen to check out more of these events. As we were leaving The Garden, we spotted a huge banner advertising Mr Stink, a play based on the novel by David Walliams.</div>
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Immediately we decided we must see it and we booked our tickets. Now, we don't know anything about Mr Stink having not read the book, but to be honest this was really nice as we could watch the tale unfold without knowing what happens.</div>
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Mr Stink was performed by <a href="http://www.heartbreakproductions.co.uk/">Heartbreak Productions</a> which is a national touring theatre company and they have been up in the North East a few times this summer with various productions including Emma and Love's Labour's Lost. Mr Stink is actually at <a href="http://www.heartbreakproductions.co.uk/event/mr-stink-68/">Guisborough Forest</a> on the 26th August if you get the chance to go along. This is an absolutely beautiful venue, we spent a great day there with the <a href="http://mammyflynnfuntimes.blogspot.co.uk/2014/09/were-having-tea-with-gruffalo_27.html">Gruffalo</a> last summer.</div>
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There was quite a large crowd gathered but we managed to weedle our way through the picnic blankets and bagged a spot right at the front. I was impressed to see various games set up as part of the setting for the show and some of the characters were helping the kids join in. </div>
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The show was set at Annabelle's Birthday party, and we follow the story by listening to Chloe read her diary that she kept after a suggestion by Mr Stink. That is all I will say on the plot as I don't want to spoil it for those yet to see or read it.</div>
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We absolutely loved it. The cast were wonderful, I particularly loved Mrs Crooomb, she was fantastic and really funny, there was also a lot of interaction with the crowd and it was all kept in character and full of fun. Eva loved Mr Stink and Annabelle (and Mr Stink's dog Duchess!).</div>
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I think what I loved most was the message that the story was trying to convey. Bullying and nastiness are terrible traits to have, be kind and true to yourself and you will be happy. </div>
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I think we have found our new favourite pastime. Picnic Outdoor Theatre shows are the way forward, although it was very windy last night, the sun shone on and we wrapped up and had a blast.</div>
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I will be keeping an eye out on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/heartbreakproductions?fref=ts">Heartbreak Productions</a> show announcements for next year as we will definitely be going to see them again.</div>
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We have ordered the Mr Stink book to read and will be getting more of David Walliams novels. I love him as a comedian and it seems I am going to feel the same about him as an author.</div>
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Thanks Mr Stink, we think you are awesome!</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07405533729358668746noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5033511182772084124.post-81104887011189155542015-08-19T21:35:00.000+01:002015-08-19T21:57:45.118+01:00Go Medieval at Belsay Hall<div style="text-align: justify;">
We have been to <a href="http://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/belsay-hall-castle-and-gardens/">Belsay Hall</a> a few times now, I went a few times with my mam for the Christmas Fayre and we took the children a couple of years ago when they put on a really good Halloween event. In all the times I have been , I have never been over to the castle. We just stayed around the hall and gardens (and tea room, yum!).</div>
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We were up at gorgeous Bolam Lake today for a lovely red squirrel event and on a whim decided that we would pop into Belsay on the way home.</div>
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The car park was fairly busy as the amazing Chapterhouse Productions are there tonight with a Midsummer Nights Dream (it is on the list for next summer) but we managed to find a spot.</div>
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As with most of the school holidays, there was a time travelling event on for the children. The Hands on <a href="http://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/whats-on/hands-on-history-crew-go-medieval-Bel-17-08-2015/">History Crew were Going Medieval</a> and we decided to give it a go. We are already Historic Scotland members which gets us free admission into English Heritage properties so this additional event was only £1 per child to enter.</div>
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We got a history trail in which we had to locate 8 of England's most famous kings and queens throughout the grounds and at the end the kids had to guess the word and they would get a certificate. We were also told there was some activities at the end of the trail at the castle so we started off on our journey. </div>
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My kids LOVE a treasure trail and this one was really fun as there were facts to read and Eva loved finding out about our countries past monarchs.</div>
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The trail took us through the Hall gardens and we had to head over to the Castle. The walk over to the castle was in short, stunning. We went through a door which according to the kids was the door to the Secret Garden. This only added to the mystery of the place and we had a wonderful time exploring. What a truly beautiful and unique place. There were rock formations, tons of fabulous plants and trees to look at, we went through more secret doors and under arches, it was wonderful. I urge you all to go have a wander through, you will love it!</div>
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It probably took us about half an hour to walk through as we stopped many times to admire different flowers and trees. At the other side we came out into the castle grounds and spotted the History tent. We were just in time for the activities to start and we took part in dancing and dressing up, we did sword skills, coloured in dragons and shields and also heard tales of King Arthur and dragons. The two members of staff, Lewis and Katie, were superb. They really got stuck in and brought the era to life, the kids loved the sword skills and storytime. I was really impressed.</div>
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We didn't have time to properly explore the castle and we will absolutely be back very soon for more adventures. There is still time to visit the History Crew as the events are on until 28th August. Thank you Belsay Hall and Castle, we had the most wonderful day.</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07405533729358668746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5033511182772084124.post-67871915987226559742015-08-18T10:42:00.000+01:002015-08-18T10:49:51.257+01:00Footprints Festival go Wild in the Woods<div style="text-align: justify;">
Childhood is such a wondrous time, it should be filled with magic and mystery, with fairies, goblins and pixies. It should be brimful of imagination and wonder and the sky should never be the limit. It is one of the things I love about my kids. Their imaginations are fantastic, they are full of stories and questions and I love to listen to them playing together whilst making up so many different things in their gorgeous little minds. We have fairies in our garden and all our toys do come to life at night. I know that as they grow, the loss of the childhood magic is one of the things I will be most sad about. I want to keep them aged 6 and 4 forever, I never want them to stop believing in Santa and the tooth fairy but I know all too soon it will happen.</div>
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Whilst researching my 'to-do' blogs for the holidays I came across the <a href="http://www.northumberlandia.com/">Northumberlandia</a> website. I am fairly ashamed to admit, that despite it being on our doorstep, we have only actually visited this remarkable spot once since it opened. I was very pleased to see so many things going on, <a href="http://www.nwt.org.uk/">Northumberland Wildlife Trust</a> is heavily involved with Northumberlandia and put on lots of really good events for the entire family throughout the year. A lot of them are free and if not, very low cost, this is a great way to introduce the kids to wildlife and nature and support our environment around us.<br />
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A new name jumped out at me, <a href="http://www.footprintsonthemoon.co.uk/">Footprints on the Moon</a>. I instantly loved the name and was intrigued so I delved more. I discovered that here was something that was right up our street! Footprints on the Moon is a Community Interest Company which means that they exist purely for the benefit of the community. They are not a profit making company which to me is extra special as it proves this is done from the heart and for our kids. It was set up by Annie and Sarah and their current base is the beautiful woods surrounding Northumberlandia. They are however expanding and will be branching out into other areas hopefully in the near future. I believe they are truly unique, in our area anyway, as the whole point is to be outdoors, explore nature, play outside, have fun, be kids. They run their sessions in all weathers, rain or shine, as Billy Connolly once said, there is no such thing as bad weather - only the wrong clothes!.<br />
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On Saturday they held their first ever festival in the woods and we were invited along to see what they are all about. Immediately upon arrival I loved it. There is just something magical about the woods, I think I maybe read too many Enid Blyton books as a child but I just love the trees, the peace and tranquillity that you find there. The kids had already gone in with my mam as for some reason there was horrendous traffic on the A19.<br />
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Spread out amongst the ferns and trees were lots of fabulous activities. By the time I got there, they had already made bug houses - bottles filled with leaves/twigs and flowers to encourage little critters in and also bird feeders. These were empty toilet roll holders, on string and the kids put peanut butter all over them and stuck seeds on them. Ingenious! such a simple thought and if you know my kids, you will know how much they enjoyed these activities. They now have pride of place outside their playhouse.</div>
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We moved on to making headdresses, using leaves and twigs and of course glitter. </div>
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Next up was some painting, fairy wings to be precise, or in Luca's case Buzz Lightyear wings.</div>
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All the volunteers helping out were superb, tons of patience and really kind and helpful. It was a lovely atmosphere, the kids just ran about freely, no worries of cars and roads. Lots of fallen logs to explore and flowers to look at, we all absolutely loved it.</div>
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There was so much to do, we had story telling, that was great, we have actually seen this lady a few times when we have attended Little Sparklers sessions at various libraries. She was really good getting the kids involved in telling the story.</div>
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We painted pictures, made fairy wands, hid in dens and ran amongst the trees. We enjoyed some gorgeous hot donuts with chocolate and salted caramel, mmmmmm!</div>
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We even made S'mores around the campfire, perfect end to a perfect day.</div>
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If you have youngsters who love getting out and about in the fresh air, check out <a href="http://www.fotm.co.uk/">Footprints on the Moon</a> and have a go, they run Wild Tots sessions for pre-schoolers through the week. Annie and Sarah are running a private event for us and our friends in September and we cannot wait! Thank you all for a lovely day, looking forward to more adventures with you.<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07405533729358668746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5033511182772084124.post-44654757922028818152015-08-11T10:51:00.000+01:002015-08-19T21:58:03.148+01:00If You Go Down to the Woods Today ....Regular readers of my blog will know that I LOVE organising parties! I am nearly always organising something and more often than not will have a few events on the go. Recently we had a fabulous Mad Hatters Tea Party and today was our Teddy Bears Picnic.<br />
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I get a group of my lovely family and friends together and we have fun, lots of fun. I love seeing the kids faces, I love seeing the parents watching their children having fun and most of all I love trying to bring a bit of magic into lovely little lives.</div>
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Over the last couple of years, I have been extremely lucky to have come into contact with some absolutely fabulous people and companies. Today, these wonderful people all came together to give our kids a wonderful afternoon and by the feedback received from the children and parents, they did just that.</div>
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Going to do a bit of a roll call as I genuinely believe that I have encountered some of the best people at what they do and I want you all to know about them. First of all, I was recommended a face painter called <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Rosiecheeksfaces1?fref=ts">Rosie Cheeks</a>. I had never met Debbie but she came with a glowing recommendation so I booked her. She is absolutely awesome! Such a lovely person and her face painting was tremendous. I can see me giving her lots more bookings in the future! :0)</div>
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Next up we were lucky enough to have some critters visit us courtesy of <a href="http://www.animalanticsparties.co.uk/">Animal Antics</a>. When I first contacted Stef about bringing along her pals, she had already had a booking in later that afternoon and made a huge effort to fit us in so the children could meet them. She really didn't have to do that, could have just told me she was full but no, she didn't and we all loved seeing her gang. Looking forward to having another event with the animals hopefully very soon (and for longer!)</div>
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Luca and I have been attending <a href="http://www.jaminalworld.com/">Musical Safari</a> sessions with Rob and his Jaminals down at <a href="http://www.splatcentre.co.uk/">The Splat Centre</a> in Whitley Bay for a while now. Sadly, my big boy will be starting school in September so no more Jaminals for us but I highly recommend them for pre-school children. Rob came along with his family, instruments and Jaminal Crew and gave us a fun filled half an hour music session. The kids loved it and all joined in with enthusiasm!</div>
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We had the most beautiful princess visit us. <a href="http://www.emmaenchanted.co.uk/">Emma Enchanted</a> is the company that I always book for my princesses and these photo's show why. Attention to detail is second to none, the dresses, the accents, the acting, practically perfect in every way :0) (check out my other blogs to see the other princesses Emma offers)</div>
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Laura is just gorgeous and is magical with the children. We all got a princess lesson and she sang and led the dancing. Just fabulous.</div>
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Our finale of the day was provided in the most spectacular way with a couple of super heroes dropping by. Jaws dropped and the kids flocked to Captain America as he greeted them all with hi-fives and posed for numerous photos. <a href="http://www.hopscotchentertainment.co.uk/">Hopscotch Entertainment</a> sent the super team along and we loved them</div>
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Captain America led the kids in general madness! Running about and having roaring competitions to see who could scare Iron Man. They had a blast and I was particularly impressed at Iron Man's ability to move in that suit! </div>
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Last but not least, I must mention my gorgeous glittery angels, Lauren and Katie, fabulous girls who did me a massive favour and sat and did glitter tattoos on all the kids and despite neither of them ever doing it before they did a fabulous job. Thank you girls, your hired!</div>
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I provided some other activities to keep the kids occupied, we had biscuit and cake decorating with TONS of sweets (that was a very popular activity for some reason!), we also made teddy bear puppets (wow, I didn't realise how hard cutting out 40 teddies by hand would be haha!) and we had a story corner, filled with books from our own collection at home, bear based mainly.</div>
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I think we all agreed that we had a fabulous day and for once, I was really proud of myself. Of course I could not have done it without all the fabulous guests and helpers I had, together they made a truly magical experience for the children. Thank you everyone, see you same time next year?</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07405533729358668746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5033511182772084124.post-69643100031436290272015-08-07T11:46:00.002+01:002015-08-07T11:56:39.891+01:00Summer Fun - Week FourArrgghhh as the weeks are going on I am finding more and more stuff! It's taking ages haha! Please bear in mind, that if you keep checking the previous weeks blogs, a lot of the events I have posted are continuous throughout the holidays, ie the events at Chesters Fort is all week as it Ouseburn Farm's lovely events, Delaval Hall have Make & Do every Sunday, Playhouse Playtime is every Tuesday. Musical Safari have events all week running throughout the holidays. Don't forget to check out The Splat Centre and Round the Twist, they have lots going on included in the cost of the entry price.<br />
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I have again tried to find mainly free or very low cost events as by week 4 the purse strings have probably snapped!<br />
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All details are correct at the time of writing but please remember to check with the venues before making any travel plans.<br />
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Saturday 8th August</h2>
A really fun looking event in Sunderland at Keel Row, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/901260299947354/">A-Mazing Fun</a> is an Alice in Wonderland inspired Giant Maze. Meet the characters and try to catch the elusive White Rabbit. Event is free, there will be a charge for some activities such as face painting. This is on Sunday 9th August also.<br />
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Northumberland Park in North Shields is having it's grand opening day today. This looks wonderful and is where we are planning to be. There will be bands playing, princesses dancing and even birds of prey. The event is free but there is a yummy hog roast from 4pm which is a ticketed event available on the day.<br />
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<a href="http://www.nwt.org.uk/events/2015/08/08/campfire-cooking?instance=0">NWT</a> have a great event on today in Weetslade Country Park, Campfire Cooking! Recommended minimum age for the kids is 5. Tickets are only £3 per child (to include food) with the adults going free. Pre-booking is essential. 1pm - 2.30pm<br />
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This looks fun, Saturday and Sunday along at <a href="http://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/whats-on/clash-of-knights-Tyn-08-08-2015/">Tynemouth Priory</a> is Clash of the Knights. Four teams of knights will battle each other to become victorious! Entry fee into the Priory applies.<br />
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Sunday 9th August</h2>
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Lots going on at <a href="http://www.experiencewoodhorn.com/">Woodhorn</a> today. They are offering family tours, winding demonstrations and art activities. Find the details <a href="http://www.northumberlandlife.org/woodhorn/Events.asp#10173">here</a>. Entry into the museum is free, there is a charge for carparking and if you wish to take the family tour it will be £2.95 per adult and £1.95 per child (£9 for a family of 4). Contact the museum for more info.</div>
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The Hadrians Wall Farmers Market is on today in the village of Greenhead. This is also on the 1st Sunday of every month, contact the organiser Wendy Bond 01697 747448.</div>
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Monday 10th August</h2>
Tynemouth Station have a Meet the Princesses event running over Monday and Tuesday. Between 10am - 4pm there will be chances to meet fairytale princesses and join in with the singing and dancing. Free event, contact 0191 6437409 for more details<br />
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There are two wonderful <a href="https://www.facebook.com/hopscotchwhitleybay/photos/a.586482014783178.1073741827.586477748116938/797064873724890/?type=1&theater">Hopscotch Entertainment</a> events today up at Linden Hall (where I got married!) The Superhero squad will put you through your paces in the morning at 11am and in the afternoon at 2.30pm, The Princesses take over for Once Upon a Time. Tickets are £15 per child and include 1 adult entry.<br />
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It is Princess and Knights day at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/1458630357772539/">Newcastle Castle</a> today. Kids go free if they arrive dressed up. We are really lucky to have our very own Castle to explore in the city. Pop along and support it. There will be a princess strolling the grounds and also a Knight School to take part in. Entry fee applies to adults (and kids if not dressed up). You can also take place in a Drum Circle right at the top of the Castle if you wish to make some noise.<br />
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Tuesday 11th August</h2>
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Dennis the Menace will be in Eldon Square today! He will be wandering around the centre, hopefully not getting up to too much mischief. He will be appearing each hour, on the hour from 11am until 3pm. There is also free Dennis the Menace face painting between Boots and John Lewis from 10am until 4pm.</div>
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All week at <a href="http://www.life.org.uk/whats-on/recycled-robots#.VcR0-PlViko">Life Science Centre</a> you can make your very own Robot using recycled materials. Each day from 11am until 1.30. Top tip, if you take the metro into town, show your ticket at admission to Life and you will get a free child entry with each paying adult.</div>
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Northumberland Wildlife Trust is holding a really fun <a href="http://www.nwt.org.uk/events/2015/08/11/animal-tracks-and-trails?instance=0">Animal Tracks and Trails</a> event today at Weetslade Country Park. £3 per person. 1pm until 2.30. Pre-booking is recommended.</div>
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Little Sparklers are running lovely sessions at North Tyneside libraries. We went to the one at Forest Hall and it was really nice. Free sessions aimed at the under 5, there is singing, dancing and lots of fun. Todays session is at Battle Hill library at 10.30 am, Contact the library on 0191 643 2255</div>
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Wednesday 12th August</h2>
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We love Plessey Woods, always something new to spot and loads and loads of lovely space to run about. Today they have a <a href="http://www.northumberlandlife.org/plesseywoodscountrypark/Events.asp">Small Mammals Session</a> where you can learn all about the creatures that inhabit the woods. Aimed at children 5 years and over, starts at 10am - 11.30. £2.50 per person. Contact 01670 824793 for more information.</div>
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Another one of my favourite places to visit with the kids is Bolam Lake just up past Belsay. Beautiful place to explore, we have had some gorgeous days out here. Today they have a mini beast hunt, always popular with the kids. £2 per person starting at 2pm ending at 3.30. All equipment is provided but please come suitably dressed. Contact Frances Povey 01661 881 234</div>
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At Killingworth Lake today there is a lovely Butterfly Walk. Only £1.50 per child to explore the woodland around the lake and see if you can spot some of these beautiful creatures. 10.30am contact alan.thurgood@northtyneside.gov.uk or 07976 307 347 to book</div>
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A fun packed Record Breakers session is on today at North Shields Library. An hour filled with crazy games and challenges. Aimed at children aged 6 and above, this is a free activity. Contact 0191 643 5270 to book your places</div>
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Thursday 13th August</h2>
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Animal Antics are at Howdon Library today bringing along a selection of cuddly - and not so cuddly creatures for you to handle. Free event but must be booked in advance by contacting the library on 0191 643 2070 or email howdon.library@northtyneside.gov.uk</div>
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More fun at Tynemouth Station today and Friday with free circus skills workshops. Suitable for all ages, learn juggling, hula hooping and more! Sessions are at 11am and 1pm. Contact 0191 643 7409</div>
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Kielder Water has a <a href="http://www.nwt.org.uk/events/2015/08/13/red-squirrel-morning?instance=0">Red Squirrel Morning</a> today. From 10am - 12am, join the team for a short talk on squirrels and then explore in the woodland and hope to spot some of them. £3 per adult, £2 per child, booking is required on 01434 221 000</div>
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Friday 14th August</h2>
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There is a <a href="http://www.activenorthtyneside.org.uk/get-active/active-families/family-fun-summer-camps/">Family Fun Day</a> on today at Churchill Playing Fields in Monkseaton today. Always great fun with loads of free activities for the family to get involved in. 11am - 2pm, lots of games, inflatables and face painting amongst other things. This is a photo of my daughter and her pal at one of the fun days a couple of years ago, always makes me laugh :0)</div>
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At Hadrian Leisure Centre in Wallsend today we have Laser-Tag, aimed at the older kid (8+) challenge your friends in the giant inflatable arena. £5.60 per session. Contact 0191 643 2025 for more info and to book.</div>
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Lakey Lions at Lakeside Leisure Centre in Killingworth have 2 sessions on today. There is Bouncy Castle and Games on from 1 - 3pm for kids from 4 - 7 and there is also Pool Toys and Floats from 1pm - 2.30pm. £3.60 per child with an Ease card, £5.60 without. Contact the Lakeside to book a place 0191 643 4177</div>
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Lakey Lions at Killingworth and Burney Bear at Wallsend have activities on most days of the holidays. Contact either centre for more details</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07405533729358668746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5033511182772084124.post-5916819512400565932015-08-06T11:26:00.000+01:002015-08-07T09:19:43.882+01:00The Secret Garden ... in the GardenI have seen outdoor theatre shows advertised at various locations over the last couple of years but for one reason or another I had never been to one. An opportunity arose (thanks Gwenda!) for 2 tickets to see The Secret Garden at <a href="http://www.alnwickgarden.com/">Alnwick Garden</a> and I jumped at the chance.<br />
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I had absolutely no idea what to expect. We have visited the Garden on many occasions since it opened and love the place. Such a wonderful idea and we have enjoyed many a family day out here over the years. So I knew it would be lovely and was very much looking forward to it.</div>
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Armed with picnic blanket, umbrella's (just in case), drinks and snacks, my daughter and I arrived at the Garden at about 6.10 with 20 minutes till showtime.</div>
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The stage was set just to the left of the Grand Cascade and it was magical. It was an absolutely perfect setting. The staff were lovely, exceptionally helpful and always on hand to help out. We were directed to the 'blanket only' spot which was a great idea as a lot of people had brought their own chairs, this way we got a perfect view.</div>
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This performance was put on by <a href="http://www.chapterhouse.org/">Chapterhouse Open Air Theatre Company</a> who are putting on 6 wonderful shows throughout the summer in some of the country's most beautiful locations. Check out their website, there is sure to be one near you.</div>
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The actors were brilliant, we loved them all and they played their parts perfectly. Eva particularly liked Mary and Colin, she found their stroppiness really funny!</div>
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The performance lasted approximately an hour and a half and there was a 15 minute interval in the middle which was perfect timing to let the kids have a run about in the garden, we even found our own secret door.</div>
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The bar was open throughout the first act and the interval and there was also a yummy barbecue serving burgers and sausages in buns complete with salad. Most people had come well prepared with large picnic baskets, we will do better next time!</div>
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At the end of the performance, Eva got the chance to meet some of the cast and Mary posed for a photograph on the stage with her which she was over the moon with.</div>
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Chapterhouse and The Secret Garden are moving onto Auckland Castle on 8th August and there are plenty more productions in the North East before the end of Summer, Jane Eyre, Pride and Predjudice, Sherlock Holmes and A Midsummer Night's Dream all taking place in stunning locations. I would love to see Jane Eyre at <a href="http://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/whats-on/outdoor-theatre-jane-eyre-Bel-14-08-2015/">Belsay Hall</a>, that would be wonderful.</div>
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The Alnwick Garden was the perfect place to watch this performance and we will definitely be back for more shows. Thank you Chapterhouse and Alnwick for a lovely evening.</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07405533729358668746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5033511182772084124.post-15664386317309791152015-08-01T09:28:00.001+01:002015-08-01T09:41:24.877+01:00Summer Fun - Week ThreeHere we are, halfway mark, running out of ideas yet? Here are a few<br />
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Saturday 1st August</h2>
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Maximus the Roman Soldier is at <a href="https://segedunumromanfort.org.uk/">Segedunum</a> this weekend. He will be on hand to put your little centurions through their paces and learn about life as a Roman Soldier. Children under 16 admitted free, adult entry fee applies.</div>
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<a href="https://stephensonrailwaymuseum.org.uk/whats-on/pirates-and-pric">Stephenson Railway Museum</a> has a free Family Fun Pirate and Princess day on today. Pop along and meet pesky pirates and the Snow Queen for a day full of fun and activities.<br />
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We love <a href="http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/wallington/things-to-see-and-do/events/">Wallington Hall</a> it is a wonderful place to explore. Today they are celebrating 30 years of Sylvanian Families with a big family picnic event. There will be live character shows, face painting and treasure hunts amongst other activities. The event is free however normal admission into Wallington applies.</div>
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Sunday 2nd August</h2>
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Make and do Sunday is on at Seaton Delaval Hall. Each Sunday throughout the holidays there is a free craft activity for the children (entry fee into the hall)</div>
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The lovely village of <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/805237116258850/">Gilsland</a> has their annual agricultural show on today. Loads of activities for the family including various animal shows and competitions. Great day out.</div>
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<a href="http://www.playhousewhitleybay.co.uk/events/7705/playhouse-playtime-princess-v-s-superhero">Playhouse Playtime</a> at Playhouse Whitley Bay today features the wonderful superheroes and princesses of Hopscotch Entertainment. An action packed show where the Snow Princess will take on Bat Hero. The children will join in a series of challenges and princess lessons. An absolutely super time is guaranteed.</div>
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Today's Monument Movie at Grey's Monument is Penguins of Madagascar. Free screening of the smash hit movie starts at 11am.</div>
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The fabulous free summer music events at South Shields Bents Park continue today with a host of North East talent, Joe McElderry, Collabro and Lola Saunders will all be performing for you, Starts at 1pm.<br />
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Monday 3rd August</h2>
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<a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/410693259131425/">West Boldon Lodge</a> has a Minibeast Open Day today. You can take part in pond-dipping, meadow sweeping and hunting in the woods for minibeasts. £5 per child, contact the Lodge to pre-book.</div>
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Little Sparklers music workshops for the Under 6's have a session on today at Forest Hall library at 2.30. Free session, contact the library on 0191 643 2085 for more information</div>
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<a href="http://www.northumberlandia.com/events_details.html?EID=4870">Northumberlandia</a> at Blagdon has a fun Wild Tots session today. Enjoy outdoor activities with your toddler, sessions aimed at under 5's. £3 per child but you must register in advance. 10am - 11.30 am. Contact 0191 284 6884 for more information.<br />
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Tuesday 4th August</h2>
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Pop along to the <a href="https://discoverymuseum.org.uk/whats-on/all-about-animals">Discover Museum</a> today for a free event All About Animals, all sorts of friends from the animal kingdom will be making an appearance today and you can learn all about how they live. 11am - 3pm</div>
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How brave are you feeling? <a href="https://greatnorthmuseum.org.uk/whats-on/arachnophobia-day">Great North Museum</a> is all about the spiders today. A brand new exhibition, <a href="https://greatnorthmuseum.org.uk/whats-on/spineless">Spineless</a> has opened and there are various events running in conjunction with it. Free drop in event, 11am - 3pm.</div>
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Glooptastic are at Tynemouth Metro Station today. Fun and free, messy play sessions for the under 5's. A drop in event, first come first served. Between 10am and 12noon. Contact 0191 643 7409</div>
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Wednesday 5th August</h2>
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This looks great fun, <a href="http://www.alnwickgarden.com/events/446/the-most-dangerous-cup-of-tea-in-the-world">Alnwick Gardens</a> are playing host to The Most Dangerous Cup of Tea in the World. A comedy show full of juggling, acrobatics and general silliness. Show is free, entry into the Gardens applies.</div>
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This weeks <a href="https://laingartgallery.org.uk/whats-on/big-wednesday-paws-for-picnic">Big Wednesday</a> at The Laing Art Gallery is all about Paddington Bear. Bring along your own bear and get him ready for a journey. These are always wonderful events, £2.50 per child, 10am - 2pm</div>
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There is a family bushcraft activity over at <a href="http://www.visitkielder.com/">Kielder Water</a> today. build your own fire, bring food to BBQ and cook your supper. £10 per person or £30 for a family of four. 1pm - 5pm. Booking is essential, contact Bruce on 01388 529 154.<br />
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Thursday 6th August</h2>
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The Under the Dome inflatablplaza in Whitley Bay has a free roller rink all this week, starting on Tuesday 4th until Monday 10th. Advisable for aged 4 years and older, there are also skates available in various sizes, Contact 0191 643 7409 for more information.<br />
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<a href="http://www.visitnorthtyneside.com/whats-on/summer-fun-at-tynemouth-station">Bookhappy</a> are running free sessions today at Tynemouth Station. These are lovely sessions packed full of story telling based on your favourite story book characters. Sessions are drop in on a first come first served basis between 10am and 12 noon.</div>
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Friday 7th August</h2>
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A full day of fun today at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/846284878753851/">The Rising Sun Centre</a>. 10.30 - 12 is Aquatic Adventures where you can go pond dipping (nets supplied). At 1pm is Butterflies, Bugs and Beasties, get up close to some of our smaller critters, Both events are £2.50 per child, contact the Centre on 0191 6432241 for more information and pre-booking.<br />
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Another lovely event at <a href="http://www.northumberlandia.com/events_details.html?EID=4881">Northumberlandia</a> today, a Family Woodland Day. £7 per child, a day full of den building, bug hunting and a picnic round the campfire. Aimed at children 7 - 11 years old, £7 per child. Contact 0191 284 6884 for more information.<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07405533729358668746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5033511182772084124.post-21026855369922096142015-07-23T10:53:00.000+01:002015-08-07T11:48:58.457+01:00Summer Fun - Week TwoWeek 2 already! Jeepers! And it's nearly August? A little round up of what's going down :0) Again, this is just a small snippet of what is happening, a lot of these events are running throughout the summer so plenty of chances to get along and enjoy.<br />
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Saturday 25th July</h2>
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Today, we have the Annual Summer Dog Oscars in Richardson Dee's Park, Wallsend. This is a free event organised by the Friends of Wallsend Park. There is a small charge to enter your dog into the competitions. Alongside the dog show there will be an array of pet stalls full of treats for your furry friends.</div>
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The free Childrens Film Club at North Shields Library today is Brave, one of my favourites, 11am, Contact North Shields Library for more details, 0191 6435270</div>
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The lovely Sage is hosting a number of family Summer activities, today's event is <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/148947272103329/">Summer Slumber</a>. £2.50 per child. Turn up in your pyjama's for a slumber party with a difference! Suitable for the under 7's and will involve songs, games and dancing.</div>
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Washington Wetlands Centre have a <a href="http://www.wwt.org.uk/wetland-centres/washington/whats-on/2015/07/25/family-fun-day/">Family Fun Day</a> on today with the amazing <a href="http://www.emmaenchanted.co.uk/">Emma Enchanted</a> bringing along Alice and the Mad Hatter for some singing and story telling, they will be there from 1 - 4 but there are activities all day from 11am. Admission into the centre applies, event is free.</div>
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Sunday 26th July</h2>
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<a href="http://www.northtyneside.gov.uk/events.shtml?p_subjectCategory=1293&p_ID=559804&p_from=25-JUL-15&p_to=31-AUG-15">Seals at St Marys</a> is a lovely talk today at St Marys Lighthouse about, obviously, seals and the conservation of them. A free event at 1.30 - 3.30, contact the Lighthouse for more details.</div>
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The famous <a href="http://www.playhousewhitleybay.co.uk/events/6467/sing-a-long-a-frozen">Sing-a-long-a-Frozen</a> is on today at Playhouse in Whitley Bay. An interactive screening of the super duper smash hit film. There will be singing princesses and complete with your prop bag you can fully participate in Elsa and Anna's adventures.</div>
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Monday 27th July</h2>
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The lovely <a href="http://www.bykerbridge.org.uk/farm/news.html">Ouseburn Farm</a> have great events on each day during the holidays. On a Monday they have Farmers Club where you can learn how to take care of some of the larger farm animals as well as getting up close to some furry friends. Each event at Ouseburn is free and they have a lovely little cafe too.</div>
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We love <a href="http://www.bedesworld.co.uk/">Bede's World</a>, its such a lovely place to while away a few hours exploring Saxon Britain. These holidays they have <a href="http://www.bedesworld.co.uk/seven-weeks-of-summer-fun!/">Seven weeks of Summer Fun</a> with a different theme each week. This week is Amazing Anglo-Saxon Animals. There will be crafts and lots of learning to be done :0) Entry fee into the museum applies.</div>
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Tuesday 28th July</h2>
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<a href="https://greatnorthmuseum.org.uk/whats-on/potty-about-pottery">Great North Museum Hancock</a> have a free pottery event on today from 11-3. Drop in and see how pottery is made, even have a try at making a thumb pot yourself out of clay.</div>
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Little Sparklers are putting on a free event at Monkseaton Library today at 3pm. Aimed at the under 6's, there will be stories, songs and lots of fun! Contact Monkseaton on 0191 6432072</div>
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The Rising Sun Country Park have another lovely event on today, this time it's Campfire Cooking. Aimed at children aged 7 -14, you can join the wardens to make a campfire and cook your own lunch. £10 er child includes food. 10.30 - 2.30</div>
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Playhouse Playtime this week at Playhouse Whitley Bay is with the wonderful <a href="http://www.northtyneside.gov.uk/events.shtml?p_subjectCategory=1293&p_ID=561000&p_from=26-JUL-15&p_to=31-JUL-15">Mister Twister</a>. You will probably have seen Mister Twister perform at some point, he is extremely popular and the kids are guaranteed a great show. Contact the <a href="http://www.playhousewhitleybay.co.uk/">Playhouse</a> for more details.</div>
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Wednesday 29th July</h2>
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Two Nature Walk and Mini-beast Hunts today, One in Marden Quarry (meet in the car park) at 10.30 - 12noon. The second at Churchill Playing Fields, next to the Pavilion, 2pm - 3.30pm. £1.50 per person at each event.</div>
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Get Active Family Fun Day at Howdon Community Centre. All sorts of activities here today, a free event with games,challenges, music, dance. Lots of things to do. 11am - 2pm<br />
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As part of The Sage's Family Summer activities, they are holding a <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/403265446536108/">Teddy Bears Picnic</a> at Gateshead Old Town Hall. £3 per person, don't forget to bring along Teddy and join in the fun.</div>
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<a href="http://www.splatcentre.co.uk/">The Splat Centre</a> in Whitley Bay are holding a disco today with the help of a couple of famous mice! All sorts of fun going down including face painting and games. £3 per child, contact Splat for more details.</div>
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<a href="http://www.farmhouseinns.co.uk/pubs/valley-farm">Valley Farm</a> has something very chilly going on today. The Frozen sisters are visiting and hosting a dinner party. Tickets are £7.50 and must be booked in advance. 3pm - 4.30, contact Valley Farm in Gateshead for more details.</div>
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<a href="http://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/whats-on/archaeology-detectives-Che-25-07-2015/">Chesters Roman Fort</a> have a fabulous event running this week, Archaeology Detectives. It is great fun, we went along last year and had a lovely day. Read all about it <a href="http://mammyflynnfuntimes.blogspot.co.uk/2014/08/excavation-experts-at-chesters-roman.html">here</a>. Admission is required into the fort but all activities once inside are free of charge.</div>
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Another Active Family Fun Day today, this time Richardson Dee's Park. Same details as Wednesday, 11am - 2pm</div>
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Record Breakers is on at Wallsend Library today. 2pm an hour of games and challenges to see if you have what it takes to be a Record Breaker :0) Aimed at children aged 6+, free event but must be booked in advance, contact Wallsend Library 0191 6432075</div>
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Childrens Films this weekend 25th and 26th July (and throughout the week at some cinemas)<br />
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<a href="https://www.tynesidecinema.co.uk/">Tyneside Cinema</a> have a wonderful scheme running every weekday of the school holidays from 9am. The Egg and Soldiers club is where you can get half price kids meals (with the purchase of one adult meal) and also enjoy scrumptious fresh juices and milkshakes. You can watch classic family films and cartoons for FREE and there are also toys and games available. </div>
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Vue Cramlington - Two by Two 10am, £1.99 per ticket<br />
Odeon Silverlink - Cinderella 10am and Penguins of Madagascar 10.30am £2.50 per ticket<br />
Odeon Metrocentre - Cinderella 10am and Two by Two 10.15am, £2.50 per ticket<br />
Empire Newcastle - Penguins of Madagascar 10.30 and Tinkerbell and the Never Beast 10.30, Tickets £1.25 each<br />
Cineworld Boldon - Home, Paddington and SpongeBob, all 10am, £1.75 per ticket<br />
JamJar Whitley Bay - Home, £4 per ticket, 1pm (Saturday)<br />
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All details are correct at the time of writing, but please check with the venue on the day before making any travel arrangements. Have a great 2nd week!<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07405533729358668746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5033511182772084124.post-2822293429072272962015-07-23T09:14:00.000+01:002015-08-07T09:19:59.977+01:00Playhouse PlaytimeOn Tuesday we went along to the lovely <a href="http://www.playhousewhitleybay.co.uk/">Playhouse Whitley Bay</a> to attend the first of the <a href="http://www.playhousewhitleybay.co.uk/news/4230/playhouse-playtime-the-playhouse-creates-weekly-events-for-children-starting-tuesday-21st-july">Playhouse Playtime</a> events. The Playhouse has teamed up with lots of lovely local entertainers to put on weekly events throughout the summer holidays.<br />
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Our event was with Marty from <a href="http://www.circurama.com/">Circurama</a> who provide fabulous circus skills workshops to children.</div>
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We didn't have a clue what to expect when we turned up but there was plenty of staff on hand to help out. </div>
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To start with, we were split into two groups, we were in the first group which meant we got to go first to meet some cool critters. <a href="https://www.facebook.com/CreaturesUpClose?fref=ts">Creatures up Close</a> brought along some of their less furry friends and the kids got a chance to handle and stroke them. My favourite had to be Sumo the Giant Tortoise, fabulous! Luca was even brave enough to hold the tarantula! A definite sign of how far this little boy has come in a year, I was so proud.<br />
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After our half an hour with the animals, we went over to the craft/games corner. There were giant games like Connect 4 and building bricks alongside lots of craft activities. We made frogs, bats and even a pom pom spider.</div>
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It was now time for the main event, circus skills and for that we had to go into the main auditorium. The kids went up onto the stage, which they loved, Eva especially as she has now decided she will be in a famous pop group along with her best friends.</div>
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Marty from Circurama was absolutely fantastic! He was funny, engaging and very daft which of course my kids loved. There were 25 kids on that stage and he made sure they all got involved and made to feel special. He did a demonstration at the start of all sorts of tricks, including unicycling and then let the kids loose on the equipment. They spun plates, twirled ribbons, played with flower sticks, even the wheels of doom :0). At the end, all the kids took part in a performance, each child had a trick to perform and they all did brilliantly. You could see by the smiles on their faces that they had a fabulous time.</div>
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To end the event, we went back into the foyer and the children were provided with a drink and a piece of fruit whilst they had a rest and recovered from all their antics.</div>
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Eventually the time came to leave, the whole event lasted approximately 3 hours which I thought was amazing value for money and the treats didn't end there. On departure, the children were given a large balloon along with a goody bag containing all sorts including a magic wand.</div>
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Thank you to <a href="http://www.circurama.com/index.php">Marty</a> and the Playhouse for a wonderful morning. I am hoping that pennies allowing, we get back to see Mister Twister later on in August. We highly recommend Playhouse Playtime.</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07405533729358668746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5033511182772084124.post-36047052541816022152015-07-19T20:25:00.001+01:002015-08-07T09:20:10.195+01:00Invasion - at WoodhornYou may have noticed by now, my kids love characters! Be it princess, superhero, cartoon, whatever, they have heroes and a lot of them.<br />
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I noticed <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/274981369372721/">Invasion at Woodhorn</a> advertised a few weeks ago and having missed it last year we were determined to get there this year. Even more so when we discovered the Avengers and various Star Wars dudes would be there. My daughter Eva, thanks to her Daddy, absolutely loves Star Wars and is desperate to meet Princess Leia, we could but hope .... Also, my friend Andy announced he would be there in two characters, The Doctor and also Spiderman so the decision was made.</div>
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<a href="http://www.experiencewoodhorn.com/">Woodhorn</a> is roughly 30 minute drive from us, we have been before for the Annual Miners Picnic and they always put on a great day. The museum is well worth a visit,it is full of local history, something we should all know of and be proud of.</div>
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The only charge for the day was for car parking £3.50 per car which I don't think is too bad. We arrived just before 11 and there was a bit of a queue but it quickly went down. We were given a programme of events and it was literally a minutes walk into the museum.</div>
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Who could have guessed, the first person we saw was Princess Leia! Eva could not believe her eyes, we had to rush on past for now though as we were going to see the Avengers Training Academy.</div>
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The kids were really pleased to see two Avengers that they haven't met before The Black Widow and Hawkeye. Even Loki made an appearance until Black Widow and the Avenger squad sorted him out, great fun. There was time at the end of the Academy to get photos for everyone and the characters were fabulous, everyone we met throughout the day was more than happy to take time and pose for us, so friendly and kind.</div>
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The whole event was really well organised, There was all kinds of cosplayers there, some we didn't recognise amongst firm favourites and lesser known characters. It was brilliant to see lots of Star Wars there aswell as many from Batman and his adventures.</div>
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We took part in a Vampire Hunt with the Ghostbusters and caught Spike from Buffy the Vampire Slayer. We met The Doctor, Ursula the Sea Witch and Luca's buddy SpiderMan.</div>
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We went along to see the Star Wars crew as they trained up new Jedi's and Eva's eyes nearly popped out of her head when this guy walked in</div>
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Is it ok for a 6 year old to have Darth Vader as a hero?</div>
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<span style="text-align: justify;">Last event of our day was the Villains talk with Joker, The Riddler and a few more of Batman's enemies. It was really funny, the Joker was brilliant with the kids and was a complete natural. All manner of baddies joined in the fun, until Batman came along to save the day!</span></div>
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What a fantastic day we had, as I mentioned before, all the characters looked great and were so lovely. Took time out of their day to get photos and high fives and they really made my children's experience so magical. Thank you to the organisers and to everyone who took part.</div>
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See you all again next year, can we make a request for Thor? !</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07405533729358668746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5033511182772084124.post-13970409718261972292015-07-19T09:04:00.000+01:002015-07-19T09:04:57.911+01:00Seven Stories has re-opened!We are well documented massive fans of Seven Stories so when a Golden Ticket to their re-opening arrived on our doormat we were over the moon! We were invited to a special preview day before the Grand Re-Opening today, 19th July 2015.<br />
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We arrived at 10 am in time to see Chief Executive Kate Edwards cutting the Golden ribbon to allow us all to flood into the building. Seven Stories has been closed since April and has undergone a £750,000 revamp to celebrate it's 10th birthday. </div>
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My children love going to Seven Stories, we all feel so comfortable and it is such a friendly and warm environment you cannot fail to enjoy. We headed straight downstairs to the first floor and the Studio. This area is dedicated to art and crafts and at the moment is inspired by The Pirate Cruncher by Jonny Duddle. There are all sorts of crafty things to do, we made a treasure chest, a treasure map, drew some undersea creatures and had fun dressing up. It is much better set out now with lots of different work stations so you have lots of room.</div>
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Our next stop was the Attic which is right at the top of the building. It has been magically transformed into Diagon Alley from the Harry Potter books and complete with lots of twinkling fairy lights it is a beautiful area. We were waiting for a performance of Sssh Shelby has a Plan so whilst we were waiting we took advantage of the dressing up corner to become some of our favourite characters.</div>
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The performance was brilliant, full of fun and very interactive. The kids loved it and had lots of laughs. That is one of the things I love about Seven Stories, the staff are truly amazing. Always happy, always eager and always more than willing to help, they truly are a credit to the Centre.</div>
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There are three brand new exhibitions open now. Painting with Rainbows, Rhyme around the World and a Bear Called Paddington. We explored all the exhibitions and as usual they are thoughtfully put together with lots of interaction and ways to make children think about things. I won't go into too much detail here, you will need to explore for yourself. I will however leave you with some photographs, The quality isn't the best, you are unable to use flash photography in the galleries so you don't damage the artwork and my camera isn't top notch but they do show you what a fun time we had (before my daughter had a little accident and we had to pop off to the RVI!, no worries she is fine)</div>
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<a href="http://www.sevenstories.org.uk/">Seven Stories</a> re-opens to the public today and as always has a full programme of events to keep you all occupied throughout the summer. Why not pop along and see for yourself</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07405533729358668746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5033511182772084124.post-66144960000414118512015-07-17T14:42:00.002+01:002015-07-17T14:46:53.780+01:00Summer Fun! - Week One<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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As promised, here is the first instalment of my Summer Holiday Guide. I have tried my best to include as many cheap, if not free, events as I can but there are some included that I personally recommend that may cost that bit more but are more than worth considering. As always, the details are correct at the time of writing but please check with the venue before making any journey<br />
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Let's start at the very beginning, a very good place to start!</div>
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Saturday 18th July</h2>
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Whitley Bay library is hosting one of it's free Children's Film Clubs. There are loads of different movies being shown all over North Tyneside libraries throughout the summer and they are all free. At 11.30 there is The Awesome Lego Movie and then 2:30 Tintin</div>
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The <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/North-Tyneside-Parks/202892006564386?fref=ts">Rising Sun Countryside park</a> also has lots of events throughout the summer. Today's event is a really fun Stone Art Workshop. This is suitable at children aged 9+ and you can use your talents to make your own Aboriginal style creation. 1 - 2.30pm £7.50 per adult and £5 per child. </div>
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Wallsend's Richardson Dee's park is hosting Bandstand Live. This is a montly Summer music festival showcasing a range of live music, local bands and artists. 11am - 3pm, free<br />
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Sunday 19th July</h2>
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Woodhorn Colliery are hosting <a href="http://www.experiencewoodhorn.com/intergalactic-invaders-day/">Invasion 6</a>. 10am - 4pm A fabulous free day out for lovers of all things Sci-Fi. There are Avengers aplenty and my friend Andy is even making an appearance as Doctor Who and Spiderman! Say hello if you see him. (car parking charge applies)</div>
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Pop down to Blyth for their <a href="http://www.tallshipsevents.co.uk/?p=1202">Open Day and Regatta</a>. 11am - 4pm. You can expect lots of sea faring fun and maybe even become a trainee deckhand!</div>
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As part of Whitley Bay's Under the Dome celebration, Sunday sees the launch of <a href="https://under-the-dome.org/20150719t10000001">Tale Spinning</a> at the Station Master's Garden just next to Whitley Bay Metro Station. All sorts of story telling fun to be had there. 10am - 1pm, free.</div>
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Also in Whitley Bay is the annual Sand Castle competition, just near the Rendezvous Cafe. Starting at 10am, judging will commence at 12:30 noon. Some of the creations have to be seen to be believed! Entry to the competition is free but please bring your own bucket and spade. Rumour has it that there will be some fabulous characters wandering about provided by Hopscotch Entertainment. There will also be live music, face painting and good old fashioned shuggy boats.</div>
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<a href="http://www.tynemouth-lifeboat.org/tynemouth-rnli-lifeboat-day-2015/">Tynemouth RNLI Day</a> is on at the Lowlights car park on North Shields fish quay. All sorts of fun and the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/quaymotorcycleclub">Quay Motorcycle Club</a> will be there with their 10th annual bike rally. <br />
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Monday 20th July</h2>
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Join the <a href="http://segedunumromanfort.org.uk/whats-on/wallquest-family-picnic">Wallquest Family Picnic</a> at Segedunum Roman Fort in Wallsend for a day full of archaeological fun. 11am - 3pm. Entry to the museum is £5.95 for adults, children under 16 are free. Bring along a picnic to enjoy.<br />
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Tuesday 21st July</h2>
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Rising Sun Country Park have den building today. £2.50 per child aged 5 and over. You will get a chance to explore the woods and build your own den. Contact the <a href="http://www.northtyneside.gov.uk/browse-display.shtml?p_ID=27698&p_subjectCategory=523">Centre</a> for more details<br />
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Benton Quarry Park have a Nature and Mini-Beast hunt on, 11am - 12.30pm or 2pm - 3.30pm. £1.50 per child contact 07976 307347 or alan.thurgood@northtyneside.gov.uk to book<br />
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<a href="http://www.playhousewhitleybay.co.uk/">Whitley Bay Playhouse</a> have some fabulous events on this summer, a different one each week. Tuesdays event is <a href="http://www.playhousewhitleybay.co.uk/events/7701/playhouse-playtime-circurama-circus-skills-workshop-5">Circurama</a> which is a circus skills workshop suitable for children aged 5 and above. The children will learn all manner of circus tricks and then at the end will perform them to an adoring crowd (ie you, the parents!). Tickets for this are £10 per child at 10am<br />
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Wednesday 22nd July</h2>
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<a href="http://www.kirkleyhallzoo.co.uk/events/upcoming-events/pirates-princesses-day-(1).aspx">Kirkley Hall Zoo</a> have one of their fabulous Pirates and Princesses days on today. Go along dressed in fancy dress for a chance to win prizes. The wonderful Captain Raggy Beard will be on hand all day to lead the fun in story telling, treasure hunts and games. 10am - 4pm Zoo entrance applies<br />
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As usual, <a href="http://www.alnwickcastle.com/events/47/raphael-falconry">Alnwick Castle</a> have an action packed programme of events these holidays. On Wednesday they have an extra special visitor, Raphael Falconry who are bound to amaze with their stunning displays. There is also Broomstick training and medieval crafts throughout the day. All activities are free but there is the usual entry fee to the Castle<br />
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Richardson Dees park in Wallsend have Nature Explorers on today. 2pm - 4pm £3 per child and you can look out for bugs, bees, butterflies and birds on a guided walk around the park. Contact <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Wallsend-Parks/250029955026665?fref=ts">Wallsend Parks</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.activenorthtyneside.org.uk/get-active/active-families/family-fun-summer-camps/">Active North Tyneside</a> are holding lots of family Summer fun days these holidays. All activities are free and there will be games challenges, music, dance all sorts going on. Todays event is at the Rising Sun in Wallsend.<br />
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Every Wednesday <a href="http://laingartgallery.org.uk/whats-on/big-wednesday-willy-wonkas-wonderful-world">The Laing Art Gallery</a> hold fabulous family Big Wednesday events. This weeks event is all about Willy Wonka! Free entrance into the gallery but there is a small charge of £2.50 per child to join in the event.<br />
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Thursday 23rd July</h2>
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<a href="https://www.facebook.com/Startasticdancers/events">Startastic Tots</a> will be at Tynemouth Station today with a fun, educational dance class for the under 5's. Free event but limited places to first come first served. 10am - 10.45am and 11.15 - 12noon<br />
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There is a Burney Bear session at Hadrian Leisure Centre today. Todays session is bouncy castle and games. £3.60 with ease card £5.60 without. Aimed at ages 4 - 7, 10am - 12noon<br />
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As part of the Marine Festival, <a href="http://greatnorthmuseum.org.uk/whats-on/marine-festival-with-captain-hook">The Great North Museum</a> are welcoming some special guests. Join Captain Hook, Jake and The Pirate Fairy in some seafaring fun. Free drop in event from 11am - 3pm<br />
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Friday 24th July</h2>
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<a href="http://www.activenorthtyneside.org.uk/get-active/active-families/family-fun-summer-camps/">Active North Tyneside</a>'s Summer Fun day today will be at Springfield Park in Forest Hall. (see Wednesday for more details)</div>
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Tyemouth Station today sees <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Glooptasticis?fref=ts">Glooptastic</a> bringing a fun and creative messy play session for under 5's. Again free event but limited places to first come first served. 10am - 10.45 and 11.15 - 12noon</div>
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The Kids Club films for the 18th and 19th July are</h2>
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Odeon Silverlink - Penguins of Madagascar, 10.00am Tickets are £2.50 each</div>
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Odeon Metrocentre - Two by Two, 10.30 am Tickets are £2.50 each</div>
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Vue Cramlington - Home, 10.40am Tickets are £1.99 each</div>
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Empire Newcastle - Penguins of Madagascar and Boxtrolls, both 10.30 am Tickets are £1.25</div>
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Cineworld Boldon - Home, 10.00am, The Spongebob Movie, 10.00am and Tinkerbell and the Never beast, 10am Tickets are £1.75 each</div>
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<b>Also throughout this week Rob and his wonderful <a href="https://www.facebook.com/thejaminals/photos/pb.271032646391322.-2207520000.1437140153./442308025930449/?type=1&theater">Jaminals</a> will be making various appearances at Miss Tina's in Washington on Monday - 9.30am, Attic Studios in Jarrow on Tuesday - 9.30am, St Johns Hall Hebburn on Thursday - 9.30am and The Splat Centre, Whitley Bay on Friday - 10.15. Classes are £4 per child and I can personally highly recommend them as we have been going since January and are extremely sad to be leaving</b>.</div>
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This list is just a snippet of what is going on this week, we are so very lucky to have access to such wonderful places in the North East. There are also events on every day at the North Tyneside Leisure Centres. Enjoy your first week!</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07405533729358668746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5033511182772084124.post-3458764398013913432015-07-05T09:55:00.000+01:002015-08-19T21:58:25.406+01:00Fun with Thomas at Drayton Manor<div style="text-align: justify;">
As a belated treat for Luca's 4th birthday, we decided to take a little trip down to Drayton Manor in Staffordshire. Having heard nothing but good things about it we were really looking forward to it. As per usual, the Flynn family booked a room at <a href="http://www.premierinn.com/en/hotel/TAMLAD/tamworth-central">the Premier Inn</a>, this time Tamworth Central as it is only 3 miles from the park. It turns out it was a brilliant location as it was very easy to find and right next to a huge shopping park which contained a couple of supermarkets, quite a number of restaurants and lots of shops. We also booked quite well in advance and got a great room rate.</div>
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Breakfast, as is always our experience, was delicious at the attached <a href="http://www.beefeater.co.uk/steak-restaurant/Staffordshire/Ladybridge-Tamworth.html">Beefeater Ladybridge</a> pub and I really like the special offer they do, for every adult dining, you get up to 2 children free for breakfast, a real money saver.</div>
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It was probably 6-7 minutes drive to Drayton Manor from our hotel, it was very simple, basically a straight road off the roundabout and it is signposted. There is no way you could miss it! I had pre-booked our tickets so we could go straight in. What I will mention here is that there is a £3 car parking charge which you have to pay on admission, I think this is a little bit naughty to be honest as you are a captive audience and already paying quite a bit of money to get it.</div>
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It was a lovely summer day and we had luckily seemed to pick a day when it was fairly quiet. Our first port of call was the main park as the kids spotted the carousel, we always have to go on a carousel when we see them. I think Eva has visions of galloping off through the countryside a la Mary Poppins!</div>
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We had a wander around the main part of the park for a while and took in a 4d show of Yogi Bear the Movie. It was brilliant, in fact we enjoyed it so much we went back into see it at the end of the day!</div>
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The main area of the park is massive. There are lots of rides of all kinds in here although they are mainly geared up to the older kids as they all have height restrictions. We got on a few however, a lovely steamboat ride, the Big Wheel and a brilliant Cable Car ride which took us right over the whole park and gave us a real birds eye view. There is also a zoo (although we didn't have time to visit) and a little dinosaur adventure which was fun.</div>
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We had delayed the inevitable for long enough now! It was time to visit the Number One Engine. Thomasland is immediately after the entrance gates on the left hand side and it is wonderful. </div>
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As expected, all the rides are fine for toddlers, although they do have to meet a minimum height restriction (I think it was 1.0 metres). I wouldn't really recommend taking a trip unless your kids are at least aged 3 I would say, that way no disappointed faces plus they will get the most out of it from that age. The whole park is very flat and extremely buggy friendly and despite it being big, it is very easy to walk around and find your way.</div>
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Thomasland has been brilliantly done with a lot of thought gone into the rides. It reminded me very much of Peppa Pig World, a variation on a theme I suppose. A nice size, loads of rides and lots and lots of photo opportunities!</div>
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We covered the majority of the rides, one of our favourites of course was Flynn's Fire and Rescue</div>
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There are rides dedicated to many well known characters and if you are lucky, like us, you will get a trip on the main man himself!</div>
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We also found that food prices were fairly reasonable too, there are family meal deals at a lot of the restaurants. We paid about £22 for a family meal from the Burger Kitchen, including drinks and it was really tasty. There is also a large family restaurant at the entrance to the park if you fancy trying that. We had a really wonderful day at <a href="http://draytonmanor.co.uk/thomas-land">Drayton Manor</a>, staff were very friendly, the whole park was absolutely spotless and there was more than enough to occupy us. We were there from opening until they were literally kicking people out! I would advise to buy your tickets in advance, not only are they guaranteed to be cheaper, you avoid any unnecessary queues. Also, the gift shops are good value too, I didn't notice any over inflated prices as you might expect and we managed to get a few little gifts for the kids without breaking the bank.</div>
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Thanks Thomas and friends for a lovely day! </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07405533729358668746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5033511182772084124.post-43452557244038326352015-06-10T17:42:00.000+01:002015-06-10T21:24:55.260+01:00An Afternoon at Jesmond Dene House<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Sunday lunch for our family is a real treat, we love a good roast and are always looking for new places to try out. When we were invited to go to <a href="http://jesmonddenehouse.co.uk/">Jesmond Dene House</a> for lunch we jumped at the chance. I have never visited the hotel before even though I live only about 10 minutes from it. Have often passed it on the way to Jesmond Dene park and looked longingly at it, it is a beautiful place. It has a rich <a href="http://jesmonddenehouse.co.uk/about-us/the-house/history/">history</a> and has played host to many famous people throughout time including Rudyard Kipling and Arthur Conan Doyle, finally opening as a hotel in 2005. </div>
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Sunday was a beautiful day, the sun was shining and it was a perfect day for enjoying some delicious food. Finding the hotel was absolutely no problem, even if you are not familiar with the area it is signposted off Matthew Bank and is 2 minutes away from the turn off. The location is perfect, you do feel like you are in the countryside but are infact approximately 10 minutes drive from Newcastle city centre. Ample parking is provided and as soon as the children saw the building, they decided it was a princesses castle and could not wait to get inside to explore.</div>
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Friendly staff greeted us on reception and pointed us in the right direction. First thing that we spotted was the dogs dotted around the place, the children instantly fell in love with them them and Luca insisted on naming them all!</div>
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We went through to the restaurant and were immediately shown to our table which was in the conservatory with a view right out into the beautiful garden,</div>
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The hotel was buzzing with activity, I noticed all types of people there, there were families enjoying Sunday lunch, there were a few tables of ladies tucking into delightful afternoon tea's (I have made a note to return to try that with my friends, we love afternoon tea). Outside on the terrace there were people having a chilled Sunday afternoon drink and to my delight I noticed quite a few dogs, that is always a major plus point in my book.</div>
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The waiting staff were really good, very attentive, offering us water for the table straight away and taking further drinks orders. </div>
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The menu was mouth watering, I am afraid I am not all that adventurous when it comes to food, I know what I like and I tend to stick to it. I ordered the Wild Mushroom soup whilst my mother ordered the Smoked Salmon Terrine. We ordered the children's food, they had decided on chicken nuggets with home made chips and beans and our waiter asked if we would like this served with our starters, a nice touch I thought.</div>
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I have to say, there was a bit of a wait for our food, we were told it was to do with the chicken nuggets. It wasn't a problem, as we were seated right next to the door to the garden, the children occupied themselves by playing outside and I was happy as I could see them easily from our table. We had a little explore looking at the beautiful flowers and the kids ran about chasing each other. It was lovely and relaxing and there were no disapproving looks from other diners which was nice!</div>
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We were provided with lovely warm bread for the table, the children and mam chose ciabatta whilst I went for a sun dried tomato roll, they were all delicious.</div>
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Our food arrived and as promised the children's main courses came with our starters. The soup was absolutely delicious, full of flavour and just the right amount so I didn't feel too full for my main. The salmon was delightful also, tasted very fresh and again just the right size,</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Smoked Salmon Terrine</td></tr>
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The children really enjoyed their food, Eva said it was yummy and Luca said the chips were the best! The nuggets were homemade, big chunks of chicken breast, very good quality and they both cleared their plates.<br />
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Our mains arrived a short time after the starter plates were cleared, we had both plumped for the Aberdeen Angus Roast Beef Sirloin and our waiter had asked how we wanted the beef cooked.</div>
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The gravy was a St Mary's Ale gravy served in a separate pot but our waiter pointed out that if we needed more we just had to ask, it was scrumptious, I love gravy and this one was absolutely delightful. The yorkshire pudding was perfect, (my favourite part of a roast would you believe!) and I have sampled many in my time, it had a lovely flavour and I did not want it to end. Beef was cooked to perfection, in fact everything on our plates was delicious, very fresh and full of flavour, I could not fault it.</div>
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Dessert time, the kids favourite part of the meal, if they see a brownie on a menu that is it, decision made! So to their delight, there it was complete with vanilla ice cream, Now I really struggled with my decision here but went for the strawberry cheesecake and I was really pleased. It was lovely, very light and flavoursome and the Pimms sorbet was a perfect contrast. Throughout the meal, the staff were wonderful with the children and our waiter made them a deal, if they finished their desserts they could have a cookie and he was true to his word, at the end of the meal he presented them with two lovely chocolate cookies to take home.</div>
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We spent a delightful few hours at Jesmond Dene House, it has a very relaxing feel, not at all stuffy, you can dress up or casual, however you feel. I loved the atmosphere of the place and it is such a beautiful building, even the trip to the toilets was exciting as we had to go down in a lift and explore the corridors. I absolutely would not hesitate to go back and the children were made to feel so welcome it was an absolute delight. I am looking forward to my next opportunity to re-visit this lovely place.</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07405533729358668746noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5033511182772084124.post-81882985406162059602015-05-24T09:26:00.000+01:002015-05-24T09:27:36.804+01:00We're Off to see the WizardWe are really lucky to have a lovely, large group of friends that all like doing really fun stuff, I am always on the lookout for various activities and putting on various events for all the kids to enjoy.<br />
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A few months ago, I came across a touring theatre company, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/actoneproductions">Act One Productions</a> who travel the country performing pantomimes to groups.</div>
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I decided to get the gang together, once again, to celebrate the start of half term and booked Act One. This season's panto is The Wizard of Oz so got the date confirmed and dusted off the ruby slippers :0)</div>
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Booking process was really easy and efficient, although they only had a few dates available due to their own popularity, Jule was very helpful and it was seamless.</div>
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I booked a lovely big hall with loads of space and that was all I needed to do, well apart from making up 30 treat bags for eager kids!</div>
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The guys from Act One turned up bang on time and even helped with the re-arranging of chairs etc. They set up and were ready to go spot on our start time.</div>
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The show was great, it was funny and full of lots of pop songs that the kids all recognised. It lasted just under an hour so was a perfect time for little ones and involved lots of audience participation. My two loved it, they thought the cowardly lion was really funny. </div>
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The actors came out at the end to pose for photo's with the kids and that was an added bonus.</div>
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Thanks again to <a href="https://www.facebook.com/actoneproductions">Act One</a> we had a ball.</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07405533729358668746noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5033511182772084124.post-43603095221388875242015-05-19T21:27:00.001+01:002015-05-24T18:38:54.346+01:00Half Term Inspiration<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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We are coming up to that time again, half term holidays! Woohoo! I love the holidays and having the kids off. We are always looking for fun things to do and more often than not, free or very cheap fun things to do, a school holiday can prove very costly!<br />
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What I thought I would do, is put together a bit of a list of different events going on over the week and hopefully it will give you some inspiration on what to do</div>
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Saturday 23rd May</h2>
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<a href="https://www.facebook.com/EmmaEnchanted?fref=ts">Emma Enchanted</a> is bringing some May Madness to Sunderland. Alice, Mad Hatter and the Queen of Hearts will be in Barnes Park all day from 10am until 4pm offering tons of unbirthday fun. Free event.</div>
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Whitley Bay are hosting a <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/776766909085979/">Carnival</a> kicking off with a parade leaving from the metro station at 12 noon and journeying through Whitley Bay ending up at Spanish City Plaza. Lots of live music, dancing, street food and theatre throughout the day. See <a href="https://www.facebook.com/WhitleyBayBigLocal">Whitley Bay Big Local</a> for more information. Free event</div>
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<a href="http://nufest.com/">Newcastle Unity Festival</a> is a huge family event held in Leazes Park promoting Unity throughout our city. There is a special kids area hosted by <a href="http://www.littlebigbutterfly.org/">Little Big Butterfly</a> and it has a bouncy castle, facepainting, story telling and many more activities. Free event</div>
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<a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/367789980093981/">Jurassictastic</a> in Castlegate Shopping Centre, Stockton, sounds roar-some. A 7 foot tall and 12 foot long raptor will be appearing to put on a show along with his two scientist friends. Free event</div>
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Sunday 24th May</h2>
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Shaun the Sheep will be at <a href="http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/wallington/things-to-see-and-do/events/">Wallington Hall</a> (Bank Holiday Monday also). Enjoy lots of sheep-filled fun to celebrate the release of Shaun the Sheep The Movie. Normal admission applies, may be a small charge for some activities</div>
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<a href="http://www.strayaid.org.uk/events/annual-dog-show-65">Stray Aid</a> are holding their annual Dog Show in <a href="http://www.durham.gov.uk/hardwickpark">Hardwick Park</a>, Sedgefield. All sorts of classes for your pooch to enter including Best Puppy, Best Rescue Dog and Best Trick. There will also be displays to watch. Pop along from some wagging good fun and support an amazing charity.</div>
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<a href="http://www.durhamminiclub.co.uk/special-events.html">Durham Mini Club</a> has it's Mini and Classic Car show in Washington. All sorts of cars on display for you to have a look at £2 per person engtry with all proceeds going to charity.</div>
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What to Wear Teddy Bear at <a href="http://www.twmuseums.org.uk/stephenson/whats-on/events/what-to-wear-teddy-bear.html">Stephenson Railway Museum</a>. A really cute drop in event where you can bring Teddy along and make him a fancy new waistcoat, just like an engine driver. £2 per waistcoat.</div>
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Monday 25th May</h2>
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<a href="http://www.bykerbridge.org.uk/farm/news.html">Ouseburn Farm</a> always have lovely free events on in the school holidays, Monday sees their Farmers Club where you will get a chance to get up close and personal with the farms animals, learning how to look after them and how to care for the smaller animals. 10 - 11am. In the afternoon at 1pm there is a Nature Trail where you will join Bryony on a trail of Ouseburn Valley. Lots of other things going on on the other days of the holidays too.</div>
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<a href="http://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/whats-on/how-to-be-a-roman-soldier-Che-23-05-2015/">Chesters Roman Fort</a> have a wonderful event How to be a Roman Soldier. Take part in a variety of activities from games to drills and crafts. Learn all about life as a Roman Soldier. Usual admission applies.</div>
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Lovely <a href="http://www.bedesworld.co.uk/folklore-legends/">Bede's World</a> have a Folklore, Myths and Legends weekend on. Entry is free and there will be a whole host of craft activities and sellers for you to enjoy.</div>
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Tuesday 26th May</h2>
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<a href="http://kirkleyhallzoo.co.uk/events/upcoming-events/kirkley-hall-zoological-gardens-fourth-birthday.aspx">Kirkley Hall Zoo</a> is turning 4 and is having a 4th birthday party. All sorts going on including treasure hunts, face painters and games. Normal admission applies</div>
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<a href="http://www.wyevalegardencentres.co.uk/wildlife-week">Wyevale Garden Centres</a> at Gosforth Park and Heighley Gate have a Wildlife Week going on. On Tuesday you can go along and make a bug hotel. £2.50 per child from 11am until 1pm. Why not join in the free Hedgehog hunt whilst you are there.</div>
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Wednesday 27th May</h2>
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<a href="http://www.alnwickcastle.com/whats-on">Alnwick Castle</a> have a whole host of events through the week, mostly free with usual admission. 26-28 May come and see <a href="http://www.alnwickcastle.com/events/47/raphael-falconry">Raphael Falconry</a> put on an amazing display. There is also broomstick training, medieval fancy dress or enjoy a behind the scenes tour of the various locations used at Alnwick Castle for film and TV.</div>
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Rockpool rambling at <a href="http://www.northtyneside.gov.uk/events.shtml?p_subjectCategory=1293&p_ID=558794&p_from=23-MAY-15&p_to=31-MAY-15">St Mary's Lighthouse</a> as part of North Sea Week. 2pm - 4pm suitable for children aged 5 and over. £3 per person, places need to be booked in advance.</div>
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Thursday 28th May</h2>
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<a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/1615069498710175/">Be-Active</a> is an event hosted by Newcastle Council in Nuns Moor Park, Fenham and is all about promoting ways you can Be Active in your neighbourhood. 11am - 1pm and activities include free bike checks from Dr Bike, help to plant flowerbeds, family games and a Change 4 Life trail</div>
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<a href="http://www.hopscotchentertainment.co.uk/events_152561.html">Hopscotch</a> Entertain are hosting a superhero event, at Foxhunters Pavilion in Whitley Bay. Operation:Mayday, featuring Bat Hero, Bumble Autobot and American Hero. Tickets again in advance £15 per child</div>
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From Thursday until Sunday, <a href="http://www.beamish.org.uk/georgian-fair/">Beamish</a> are holding a Georgian Fair as the Squire of Pockerley sets about finding his new staff for the season. Events include Miss Rebecca's performing ponies, Punch and Judy, live music and clog dancing and many, many more things to see. Normal admission applies.</div>
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<a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/North-Tyneside-Parks/202892006564386?fref=ts">Rising Sun Country Park</a> have various events on Thursday, a mini beast hunt suitable for children aged 5 and over. Hunt for bugs in the park, all equipment is provided but make sure you wear suitable clothing. 10:30 until 12 noon. At 1pm til 2.30 there is Aquatic Adventures, pond dipping again equipment provided, suitable for all ages. Both events are £2,50 per child</div>
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Big Thursday over at <a href="http://www.twmuseums.org.uk/discovery/whats-on/events/all-at-sea-discovery.html">Discovery Museum</a> is celebrating all things maritime. Create a porthole picture, try a Keelman challenge and get up close with real maritime creatures. Free entry</div>
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Friday 29th May</h2>
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<a href="http://www.hopscotchentertainment.co.uk/events_152699.html">Hopscotch Entertainment</a> are also hosting a Madness and Mayhem event at Wallsend Memorial Hall. Guaranteed a great afternoon with some very special guest stars M1 and M2. £15 per child, tickets need to be booked in advance</div>
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<a href="http://www.twmuseums.org.uk/south-shields/whats-on/events">South Shields Museum</a> are showcasing a play specifically for children called And Let Us Run and it has been created by local schoolchildren. More details <a href="http://greatnorthrunculture.org/gnr-million-events?eventid=110">here</a>. Tickets are free but must be booked in advance.</div>
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Saturday 30th May</h2>
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Brand new exhibition opening at <a href="http://www.twmuseums.org.uk/segedunum-roman-fort/whats-on/events/mercatus-a-roman-fayre-for-roman-empire-power-amp-people-opening-day.html">Segedunum Roman Museum</a> in Wallsend and it kicks off with Mercatus, a Roman Fayre. There are so many exhibits here to see including fire jugglers, belly dancers, Roman cavalry and pottery demonstrations. Children under 16 go free.</div>
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<a href="http://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/whats-on/how-to-be-a-roman-soldier-Che-23-05-2015/">Birdoswald Roman Fort</a> have a real life Roman Soldier on site leading fun and games for little soldiers. A selection of ancient board games and crafts are just some of the activities you can take part in. Usual admission applies</div>
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Sunday 31st May</h2>
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<a href="http://www.vermont-hotel.com/enchanted-childrens-parties">The Vermont Hotel</a> are hosting a Princess Ball in conjunction with Emma Enchanted. A glittering ball with Snow White, Beauty and Rapunzel, Your little princesses can take part in princess lessons, dancing, story time, mini makeovers and a crowning ceremony. Tickets need to be booked in advance. £14.95 per child £4.95 per adult.</div>
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<a href="https://www.tynesidecinema.co.uk/whats-on/films/view/moomins-on-the-riviera">Tyneside Cinema</a> are showing Moomins on the Riviera celebrating 70 years of the well loved characters. Only £4 per ticket with a Tyneside Cinema Family Card which you can collect at the cinema.</div>
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Vue Cinema in Cramlington is showing a couple of films as part of their <a href="http://www.myvue.com/offers-competitions/kids-am">Kids Am</a> offer. Dino Time and Shaun the Sheep are on every day Saturday through to Thursday. Tickets are priced at £1.99 each</div>
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<a href="http://www.odeon.co.uk/kids/#showtimes-anchor">Odeon Silverlink</a> are also showing a few films, Big Hero 6 is on Saturday - Friday. Paddington is Saturday - Thursday and Cinderella is on Friday - Sunday. Tickets are priced at £2.50. The Metro Centre Odeon has the addition of Boxtrolls Saturday - Thursday as well as the above.</div>
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<a href="http://www.empirecinemas.co.uk/_img/specials/jnrs/S152/238_JNRS_WEB_A_S2_15.pdf">Empire Juniors</a> in the Gate are showing The Book of Life and Shaun the Sheep on 23rd and 24th May and the following weekend showing Alexander and the Terrible, No Good, Horrible Day. These films are an incredible £1,25 per ticket.</div>
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So, what started out as a little round up turned into quite a lengthy post and I have only scratched the surface of what there is on offer the May Half Term. Hope it helps a little and please let me know, if you attend any of these events, what you thought, I love to hear your feedback.</div>
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DISCLAIMER; All details are checked and are correct at the time of writing. Please double check information with the venue if you are making plans to visit.</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07405533729358668746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5033511182772084124.post-45834017224333711852015-05-18T09:41:00.000+01:002015-05-18T10:05:28.107+01:00Story Party, Seven Stories on the Road<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It is no secret that we LOVE Seven Stories. I have been taking the children since they were tiny, in fact Luca's first visit was when he was about 3 weeks old! </div>
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We have been back lots of times, each time a new exhibition is unveiled we go back and have spent some lovely days exploring the museum.</div>
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Seven Stories celebrates its 10th birthday this year and it is currently closed as they are under-going a massive refurbishment and will open in July. We cannot wait to see all the changes and are really looking forward to going again.</div>
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In the meantime they have come up with an ingenious plan to take Seven Stories out on the road all over the region with various <a href="http://www.sevenstories.org.uk/tenyear/on-the-road">events</a> . We decided to book up for the Story Party - Into The Woods event which was at Jesmond Dene. </div>
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What a great idea this is, it enables the children to experience the magic of Seven Stories but in lovely settings, Jesmond Dene in particular is a lovely place and the day we went happened to be nice weather so we took full advantage with a good run about in the park before hand.</div>
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Story Party on the road was really lovely. The room was filled with all sorts of flowers and cuddly woodland creatures for the children to investigate and the lady running the session was brilliant. She pitched it just right for the age aimed at and managed to keep their attention throughout. They even brought the lovely story telling chair along.</div>
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She read us two stories Owl Babies and Luca's all time favourite, The Gruffalo. It was so cute to see all the kids reciting the lines from the book word for word. There was lots of interaction including some really cute hand puppets and we played a few games to get everyone moving about.</div>
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What a lovely morning we had, thoroughly enjoyed the Story Party and as such have already booked up for the session in the half term holidays and looking at the Julia Donaldson one in June.</div>
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There are lots of different events happening, there is bound to be something that will appeal to you and your family. Visit Seven Stories on the road, you will have a great time.</div>
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<a href="http://www.sevenstories.org.uk/">Seven Stories</a></h2>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07405533729358668746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5033511182772084124.post-56846275132900413312015-05-17T23:28:00.002+01:002015-05-24T09:27:20.471+01:00Super Luca's Hero Party<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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My youngest has just turned 4, in the blink of an eye my baby is growing up so fast. He is a wonderful little boy, handsome, kind, full of fun and also charmingly cheeky. Until he started nursery he was incredibly shy, a complete mammy's boy. At parties he would hide on my knee away from all the other kids and noise, he had very low confidence. Since September and starting nursery, we have watched him grow and change in front of us, he has gained new found friends and in doing so, his confidence is growing. I was so worried about leaving him in nursery, I knew he would miss me but I was terrified he would just invert into himself and not join in. How wrong I was, it has been the making of him and he makes us so proud each and every day. He is very popular and really funny, couldn't love him more if I tried. Anyway, back to the point, he is now 4 and 4th birthdays are incredibly important and warrant a huge party with all of your friends and some extra special guests. </div>
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Last summer I took the kids to a <a href="http://mammyflynnfuntimes.blogspot.co.uk/2014/08/a-super-adventure.html">Super Hero Squad</a> event organised by <a href="http://www.hopscotchentertainment.co.uk/">Hopscotch Entertainment</a>. He hadn't been too bothered by superheroes until that event but since that day forward he has become obsessed with Captain America, Spidey, Iron Man and the gang. In fact after that, he said there and then that he wanted them at his birthday party. So that was what he got. I booked up just after Christmas to make sure I got all the heroes he wanted. Hopscotch offer a complete party package including a party host which means you are literally just able to stand and watch the fun.</div>
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I spent a small fortune on party supplies, I wanted a red, white and blue theme so bought a ginormous American flag, various American flag buntings and some fantastic scene setters featuring all the characters. I love doing party bags and I always like to do something a bit different and with this in mind, I got some wonderful bespoke party favours from <a href="https://www.facebook.com/messages/doodletowncrayons">Doodle Town Crayons</a> and <a href="http://www.paperchicstationery.com/">Paper Chic Stationary</a>. What fabulous ladies to work with, they are already commissioned for my next project :0) I carried the theme through with red, white and blue bags to put the goodies in.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lolly Card by PaperChic</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Party Bag Contents</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crayon and Colouring card by Doodle Town Crayons</td></tr>
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We are pretty lucky in the area we live in to have a good choice of great party venues. The one I booked this time is literally on our doorstep and is a perfect size and cost. We spent an hour and a half dressing the room, preparing the food boxes and sorting out cakes. My friend Mark always makes my cakes and this time he did as brilliant a job as ever.</div>
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About 20 minutes before the party started the superheroes arrived. They did what I thought was a wonderful thing, they hid round the corner and Lyndsey, the party host, came in to check what I wanted to do about their arrival, at this point we ushered our kids into the toilets and the heroes snuck into a room at the back of the hall. I was really grateful for this as it totally added to the surprise.</div>
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Once the guests had arrived Lyndsey announced the heroes and honestly, Luca's jaw literally dropped, it was a wonderful moment, he was completely gobsmacked, especially when he saw Iron Man, his hero. There were a few children who were unsure of the hero's, but a massive effort was made by each and every one of them to put the kids at ease and to reach out to those who were a bit frightened. Luca was very shy still but the characters made an extra effort with him. </div>
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The party was fantastic, Lyndsey took charge and led the kids through a craft activity in which they had to make their own superhero shield and then they had a superhero parade to show off their work. A really good ice breaker to get them all warmed up.</div>
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Loads of party games followed with prizes all provided by Hopscotch. We did a Superhero assault course and Superhero statues was great fun and was taken quite seriously by the tiny heroes. We had pass the parcel complete with a dancing Spiderman in the middle of the circle, Spiderman got a big thumbs up from the mothers in particular ;0) and lots of funky dancing by everyone.</div>
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The heroes led a rousing chorus of Happy Birthday to Luca whilst we presented the cake and he blew out his candles and then they all posed extremely patiently for an endless line of photographs.</div>
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It was time to say goodbye to Iron Man at this point and this is one of my favourite pictures from the day, my tiny Iron Man with his hero</div>
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The rest of the heroes stayed around to help us give out the party food boxes and sat and chatted with the kids until it was time for them to leave.</div>
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Luca said it was the very best party ever and that for me is a job well done.</div>
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Thank you again to all the guys from Hopscotch, you probably hear this all the time but the work you do truly makes children's dreams come true. All the performers are a massive credit to your company and we thank you from the bottom of our hearts for making our little boy so happy.</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07405533729358668746noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5033511182772084124.post-74628371232676438832015-05-13T18:10:00.002+01:002015-06-10T21:25:11.568+01:00Showering Baby at St Mary's Inn<div style="text-align: justify;">
A very good friend of mine is about to have her second baby, a baby girl and is fast approaching her due date. For her first baby we threw her a surprise low key baby shower in an Italian restaurant. Wendy isn't a fan of a big fuss but she is a fan of afternoon tea so I decided to do the same again and surprise her.</div>
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Afternoon Tea is definitely the 'in' thing at the moment and as a group of friends, we have sampled many over the last few years. Something very civilised about sitting down with your best pals for a chinwag and a cup of tea, served in a china cup of course.</div>
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The search began for a venue, there are so many wonderful places to choose from but just as I was deliberating, my friend posted this blog <a href="http://www.northeastfamilyfun.co.uk/2015/03/afternoon-tea-at-st-marys-inn.html">North East Family Fun</a> and I was sold. Perfect location also as a lot of the girls are local to Morpeth.</div>
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I emailed the pub via their website and got a swift reply from the manager. I was incredibly impressed, especially when he offered me a private room for our event, free of charge. The whole booking process was efficient and quick, I was extremely happy at the service I received. I even received a booking reminder a few days before the shower with all our details on it. </div>
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On arrival I thought St Mary's Inn was beautiful, it is set in a new housing estate on the outskirts of Stannington Village and is on the site of the former St Mary's Hospital. It is a large building and I love how it has been preserved. The staff were wonderful I have to say, quick to greet us and extremely friendly, I was shown to our private dining room which was ideal, there was one big table laid out in traditional style and there was plenty of light and space, would definitely book that area again. The whole pub is lovely throughout, there are lots of nooks and crannies which mean you will more than likely be able to find a private area. They also have a lovely beer garden which we intend to take advantage of in the summer! I was extremely pleased to see quite a few dogs about, having 2 myself it is always lovely to see our four legged friends allowed in.</div>
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Our waitress was brilliant, there were 13 of us altogether and she coped extremely well with all of our requests including changing some of the sandwiches to ones which suited people better.</div>
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The tea itself was delicious, it was served on a two tier wooden stand and it looked mouth watering. </div>
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Sandwiches were generously filled on lovely soft, white bread with fillings of salt beef and mustard, cheese and pickle, egg and cress and prawn with marie rose sauce. Absolutely delicious, I love a good sandwich and these did not disappoint. We had 3 scones each! a fruit, plain and a cheese scone served with clotted cream (as they should) and home made jam. </div>
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The cakes were a perfect size, we had a lime and vanilla macaroon, rhubarb pavlova, a chocolate brownie and an apple and almond tart. Our waitress kept our tea and coffee topped up throughout and by this time we were all pretty full so the barman provided us with plenty of boxes to take our excess scones and cakes home which I thought was a nice touch. Nobody wanted to waste a single bit.</div>
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We spent a wonderful few hours at St Mary's. I thought the pub had a lovely, warm and welcoming atmosphere and the food aromas from other diners definitely confirmed that we need to go back and try it. We were made to feel very welcome, nothing was a problem and I wholeheartedly recommend the place. Try it, you will not be disappointed! </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07405533729358668746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5033511182772084124.post-60209598241178515642015-05-04T12:48:00.000+01:002015-05-04T12:53:09.155+01:00Bella Italia - Seconda Parte, Lago di GardaAfter Florence, our love affair with Italy was in full swing so we looked at where to go next. It took us a few years as in between we had to fit a pesky wedding in ;0) oh and a trip to New York for a fabulous honeymoon (look out for that mammoth blog a bit later on).<br />
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We finally pinned it down to Lake Garda. I spent hours and hours researching where to go as there are so many gorgeous destinations to choose from. I could waffle on here about my thought process, but really I fell in love with the hotel I eventually chose, <a href="http://www.hotelleonardodavinci.org/">Hotel Leonardo da Vinci</a> in the beautiful town of Limone. Limone, in Italian, means lemon and the town is surrounded by lemon and lime groves and is located on the south shore of, in my opinion, the worlds most beautiful lake. Being on the south side meant a much longer airport transfer but boy was it worth it. The journey from Verona airport was approximately two hours but as most of it was along the shore of the lake it was breathtaking, we drove through lovely little towns on the hotel drop offs which we made mental notes of to visit. </div>
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Upon arrival at our hotel we immediately knew we had made the right choice. It was set back from the town, approximately 20 minute walk away, but there was a frequent mini bus service. The hotel was beautiful, sparkling clean, friendly staff and massive! It had pools, tennis courts and even its own beach. The food in our hotel was wonderful and the restaurant manager Johnny was fabulous. He remembered guests names, was always on hand to help and he ran an exceptionally tight ship. Reading trip advisor nearly 13 years on, it seems Johnny is still doing a great job, he is frequently mentioned!</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Limone Harbour</i></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Beautiful Limone set against the Dolomites</i></td></tr>
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It is hard not to natter on and on and bore you all with probably far too much detail about Lake Garda, I don't really know where to begin and will probably use far too many superlatives but we absolutely and genuinely had the best holiday here. Limone is beautiful, not to big but has plenty of restaurants and little bars to frequent. We were half board in our hotel and as the food was delicious, we didn't venture out for dinner but had plenty of evening strolls in the glorious sunsets. We were also incredibly lucky to be there during a fireworks display, which set against the backdrop of the Dolomties to wonderful classical music was amazing. The ferry service which operates from town to town is cheap and reliable, we sailed across to Gardone Riviera, which is the setting for the first ever Lake Garda hotel and we visited Malcesine which was bigger than Limone and a lot busier. Sirmione was one of my favourite towns, it has a beautiful 12th century castle and is just full of charm. We also had one of the best pizzas we have ever tasted here, along with the obligatory gelato!</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Sirmione Castle</i></td></tr>
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We did a LOT of excursions on this trip, the Crystal reps were very good and the trips were great value. We visited Verona, went up the Dolomites, had a tour round the north side of the lake and best of all spent the day in Venice. Verona surprised me, it was one of our favourite places, we had the best panini (as boasted by the cafe owner) in a tiny little cafe off the square where the arena is. Of course we visited Juliet's balcony, an impossibly romantic place where all the lovers who visit scrawl their names on the walls to show their devotion. We just wished we had bought tickets to the opera in the amphitheatre that night but we just did not have the time.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Inside the Verona Amphitheatre</i></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Romeo, Romeo where for art thou Romeo</i></td></tr>
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Venice, well what can I say except one day is just not long enough. Yes, you have guessed it, it is added to our list of places to return. It was so beautiful and just lived up to every one of my expectations. From stepping on the ferry transfer to St Marks Square, to the gondola trip we went on, I loved every second of it. It is a sight to behold and not one bit smelly as I had been led to believe. We even experienced road rage 'canal style' when another gondolier invaded our path, it was hilarious, another thing I love about the Italians! They are crazy! </div>
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If you get a chance to go to Lake Garda, I urge you to grab it with both hands. You will most definitely not regret it. Italy is a wonderful place for families and although we visited before we had the kids, it was evident everywhere we went that children were welcomed with open arms. Lake Garda even has it's own theme park <a href="http://www.gardaland.it/resort-en/">Gardaland</a> but we have not visited it, looks great fun though.</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07405533729358668746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5033511182772084124.post-89839528129942262362015-05-04T09:11:00.001+01:002015-05-04T12:52:44.072+01:00Bella Italia - Prima , FirenzeThis post is the first of my mini travelogue's about some of the places we have travelled and loved. Please excuse the horrendous photographs, this was long before we had a digital camera and in the days of sending off our holiday snaps in an envelope to Truprint. It wasn't until I started looking through our photos for this blog that I sadly realised how rubbish they are.<br />
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I have to be perfectly honest, before I met my hubby, I had never even given Italy a thought as a holiday destination. He had always wanted to go to Florence, mainly due to watching Fiorentina on Gazzetta, the Italian football programme! (we all need to get our inspiration from somewhere :0) ). I was working as a travel agent and one of our perks was a yearly concession which gave us a huge discount off a holiday. I decided to use it on a week long city break to Florence. This was our first ever 'proper' holiday and having never been before and realising it was so expensive we just opted for the cheapest option of a 2T hotel, Hotel Centro. There was also no option of a Newcastle flight so we went down to London Gatwick. This all added to the excitement as I had never been to London either.</div>
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We arrived and caught the train to Santa Maria Novella station, incidentally, the train network in Italy is superb and when we went (1999) it was incredible value for money, we made a number of daytrips from Florence and were very impressed. </div>
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The hotel was only a few minutes walk from the station but in our wisdom, we decided to walk instead of taxi and it took us about an hour of trawling up and down the most beautiful little streets! Finally, we got to our hotel, it was housed, as many of Florence's hotels are, in a Renaissance palazzo and on first sight I loved it. The room we were given was tiny with separate bathroom but as they were quiet they upgraded us to a room with use of a private bathroom. The staff were lovely, the hotel was very pretty but for future reference, I would advise at least a 3 star in Italy, purely for facilities as this one was very basic. It was however in a wonderful location on a quiet (not accounting for the bloody scooters) street just a few minutes walk from the Duomo.<br />
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Florence, for us, was honestly love at first sight. Absolutely breathtaking, even now, all these years later, I can still picture and smell it as if I were there, I can still hear the hustle and bustle in my mind. We were very much holiday novices on this trip and it was our first proper experience of Italian food and hospitality.</div>
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The holiday was perfect, we were there the first week of August and it was hot! Very hot, but not unbearable. We knew absolutely nothing about the place, there was no google about to tell us every last detail before we arrived and I have to admit that I liked it that way. The element of surprise was wonderful. I remember wandering about with just a basic map, having no idea what we were doing or where we were going and ending up face to face with The Duomo. Words cannot describe this building, even with scaffolding up (whilst we were there a lot of Italian churches were being renovated for the Millennium celebrations), it actually took my breath away it was so beautiful. It is no secret the history that Florence boasts and to be able to walk amongst it and experience it was such a privilege. We marvelled at the Uffizi Gallery, crossed the Ponte Vecchio and gazed out over the River Arno. Of course, we had to pay a visit to Fiorentina's Stadio Artemi Franchi. When we got there, it was all locked up, they didn't offer any stadium tours but a kind groundsman took pity on these poor English people staring through the gates like Fagin's kids and actually let us in to have a look.<br />
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As I mentioned earlier, we took various daytrips whilst we were there. We took the train to Bologna and Rome. Bologna was beautiful, home of the bolognese sauce of course. What a beautiful city and quite compact so it was easy to navigate ourselves. Rome was huge, we didn't have a clue where or what to do and spent most of the day chasing our tails. The city is so busy and bustling and we barely scratched the surface. They do have a very good Metro system and using this we made it to the Coliseum and the Vatican City. Vatican City is immense, we got totally lost trying to find our way around and it was boiling! Rome definitely warrants it's own visit which we hope to do one day. Little tip, keep away from Gladiators at the Coliseum, they will let you take a photo with your own camera and then charge you a tenner for the privilege ;0)<br />
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Another trip we did, this time an organised excursion, was a coach trip to Siena and San Gimignano, two beautiful and ancient Tuscan towns. This trip was worth it for the journey alone through Tuscan countryside, if I ever win the lottery this is where you will find me. <br />
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What I loved most about Florence, and the other Italian cities we have visited, is just EVERYTHING! I love the Italian La Dolce Vita, the food, the atmosphere, the promenading at night time, the people watching, the architecture, the culture, the people. I just love Italy. Infact, it was the inspiration behind our son's name, Luca, Luca Toni played for Fiorentina and we loved his name. One day we will take Luca (and Eva of course) to Lucca,</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07405533729358668746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5033511182772084124.post-41937374109749990982015-04-23T19:30:00.000+01:002015-04-23T21:02:23.985+01:00Park Life<div style="text-align: justify;">
So before I lose my littlest dude to full time school (big sad face here) we are determined to make the most of our summer together. It has been gorgeous this week to get out in the sunshine and this weather is perfect for me as it is not too hot. Whilst I love sunny weather, I hate the heat.</div>
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What I thought I would do is put together a little guide to our favourite parks. It is our plan to visit as many as we can over the next few months, weather permitting of course.</div>
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Wallsend Park</h2>
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Or to give it its formal title, Richardson Dees Park. This is our favourite park, it is wonderful and it has been the centre of a massive regeneration, which was very much needed. There has been millions spent on it and the results are astonishing. There is a fabulous play park with all sorts of play equipment for children of all ages, we have spent many happy hours here over the last couple of years. There is a little lake with ducks to walk around, a beautiful restored Victorian bandstand (the centre for some wondeful storytelling sessions we have attended) and if you go to the Verandah Cafe, there are a couple of little guides you can pick up free of charge. One is a Plant Hunter which takes you through the Wallsend Hall Grounds across the road, exploring the plants. Upon completion of your findings you will receive a reward from the cafe. </div>
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The other is a little storybook telling you all you need to know about the parks Ginkgo Trolls which are wooden sculptures carved into trees at various points.</div>
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There are tons of activities on at the park during the whole year, I am sure you will find something your family will enjoy, </div>
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<a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Wallsend-Parks/250029955026665?fref=photo">Wallsend Parks</a></h2>
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Springfield Park, Forest Hall</h2>
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This park is on our doorstep and again is a place we have visited many times. The play park is usually quite quiet and is again perfect for my kids (aged 3 and 6). Again, lots of lovely space around it to have a run about or kick a football. There are also tennis courts here. The council put on many events here through the year, a lot of them free. At Christmas, Luca and I attended a really nice session which involved decorating the trees in the park for Christmas. We dressed them in sparkling tinsel and baubles and the result was really sweet. The warden running the session (I think he was called Alan) was fabulous with the kids and we will return again this year.</div>
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The Rising Sun, Wallsend</h2>
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Probably a place many of you have been too, the actual play park itself is a little too big for my kids but I love it for having a nature walk and exploring the wildlife around there. The cafe does some delicious cakes also! Try and check out the annual Teddy Bears Picnic that they have on in August. It is a fabulous day and it is definitely a big crowd pleaser. They have events such as den building, camp fire cooking and lots and lots of bike sessions. These events tend to be for slightly older children and as I haven't been to any of them yet I am unable to comment. I have had friends review their Christmas activities and they have always been given top ten marks. The details of all future events can be found on the North Tyneside parks <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/North-Tyneside-Parks/202892006564386?fref=nf">Facebook</a> page.</div>
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Northumberland Park, North Shields/Tynemouth</h2>
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Yesterday we visited this park for the very first time. It is another park which is being regenerated and again, what a cracking job is being made of it. It has recently only re-opened in February and is a wonderful park. There appears still to be work to be done, the play area looks like it will be worked on soon but it is a nice area still. The grounds are lovely, there is again a lake with ducks in, always a plus for toddlers to watch! It is a really pretty place, it was lovely and quiet and we had a really nice walk about. There is a pavilion/cafe there but not sure it is open yet as it was closed when we were there. It reminded me of Peasholm Park in Scarborough for some reason. </div>
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<a href="http://e-voice.org.uk/friendsofnorthumberlandpark/">Northumberland Park</a></div>
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Saltwell Park, Gateshead</h2>
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Another firm favourite. 55 acres to explore which is just aswell seeing as over 2 million of us visit this place every year. It has a large lake with boats you can hire if your feeling energetic, or if you are lucky to visit on a warm day, plenty of secluded places you can find for a snooze. There is even a designated dog area for doggies to run free! Saltwell Towers is magnificent and houses a visitor centre and cafe, although to be perfectly honest, I find the food pricey here. A great excuse for a picnic as you could easily spend all day here, getting lost in the maze, wandering around The Rose Garden or checking out Pets Corner. Of course they have a play park, I like this one as it is split into two areas for smaller children and the older children which is nice as it means kids of all ages don't need to worry about the smaller/bigger kids. Every winter the <a href="http://www.gateshead.gov.uk/Leisure%20and%20Culture/parks/Saltwell%20Park/EnchantedParks.aspx">Enchanted Parks</a> event sells out, we have yet to catch it, determined to this year! The park is transformed into a magical wonderland after dark.</div>
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Ridley Park, Blyth</h2>
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Nearly there with my round up! I hadn't realised how many parks there were to write about until I started! Ridley Park is smashing, not too far away from the lovely Blyth Beach and it is not too big a park. It has the added advantage of a really cool water feature in the summer months but check in advance if it is on if you plan to visit for it... just in case.</div>
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The play area is again split into two halves for the younger kids and the older ones, I think this is a brilliant idea. A fairly recent addition is <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Mister-Ridleys-Ice-Coffee-Parlour/667984599946426">Mister Ridleys</a> which is a vintage style cafe set in the heart of the park. We have yet to visit under its new ownership but so far, have only heard good reports. It is on the list for a sunny day!</div>
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Carlisle Park, Morpeth</h2>
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This is a multi award winning park and is picturesquely set on the banks of the River Wansbeck which is useful as you can hire a boat and sail to your hearts content! There is the formal William Turner garden as well as the obligatory play park which is actually really good. The only downside to this park is that it gets incredibly busy. My advice is to get there early for a few hours before the hoards ascend! The main selling point of this part (to a child anyway) is the paddling pool which is open in the summer months. Don't forget your swimsuits and towels as there is no way you will be able to keep the kids out! Try to have a leisurely stroll away from the park along the river, Morpeth is a beautiful town and this is a good way to see a slice of it.</div>
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I hope you have enjoyed reading my not to little guide to some of the parks we are lucky to have surrounding us and this is just the tip of the iceberg. I would love to hear your favourite parks and your recommendations.</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07405533729358668746noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5033511182772084124.post-50070318158110201672015-04-13T21:00:00.001+01:002015-04-15T17:33:56.297+01:00CBeebies Live - Mr Tumble's Circus<div style="text-align: justify;">
For the past few years we have taken Eva to see CBeebies Live whenever it has been in Newcastle. Luca has always been too young we felt. This year, for one reason or another, we didn't buy tickets but I was sad that we would miss it. Then lo and behold, a miracle occurred. A friend of mine messaged me to say her cousin had won tickets and couldn't go, would we like them! Wow! Of course! The children were over the moon, Luca is a massive Mr Tumble fan. I have to admit that Mr Tumble will always have a special place in my heart. I love him for the memories I have of Eva from a teeny tot singing 'Hello hello how are you' and also for Luca and his 'doiiii'. I am sure parents of Tumble fans get what I am trying to say here :0)</div>
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This years theme was Mr Tumbles Circus and the show starred CBeebies favourites Andy, Gem (from Swashbuckle) and Kat.</div>
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Our tickets were waiting at the box office for us and we were pleased to see we had fabulous seats.</div>
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It was a fabulous show, filled with all our favourite characters from all of Justin's shows, Something Special, Justin's House and Gigglebiz. There were acrobats, fireworks and plenty of audience participation. My favourite part of the show, as in the other CBeebies shows we have seen, is the children's reaction to when Mr Tumble comes on. They go crazy! he is like god to them and they adore him and I, as I have previously said, adore him for this reason! May sound daft but the man has the Midas touch and the teeny ones are his biggest fans.</div>
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Thank you Justin and friends for another wonderful memory. The show was fantastic, keep doing what you are doing, your fans will always love you.</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07405533729358668746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5033511182772084124.post-10106593033174526752015-04-09T18:01:00.002+01:002015-04-11T09:48:33.004+01:00Beautiful Bolam Lake <div style="text-align: justify;">
I have to admit to not being a fan of big crowds and noise. I don't like to be in busy places so I hate shopping and I especially hate soft play centres during school holidays!</div>
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Whilst the kids are off, it is lovely to get out in this glorious weather and enjoy some fresh air. One of my favourite haunts is <a href="http://www.northumberland.gov.uk/default.aspx?page=1894">Bolam Lake</a>, not far from Belsay and approximately 9 miles from Morpeth in Northumberland. I love everything about it, I love the drive along the beautiful A696, especially on a sunny day like today. It took us about 35 minutes leisurely drive.</div>
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I am also pleased to note that since 1st April, the car parks at Bolam Lake are all free of charge, great way of encouraging visitors. </div>
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We hit the lake at a great time, about 10.30 this morning and it was lovely and quiet, we saw barely anyone as we strolled around the lake watching the swans and geese performing for us. It was fabulous to be away from the crowds and enjoy the peace.</div>
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There are plenty of benches all around the lake for you to sit and enjoy your beautiful surroundings, or enjoy a cuppa from a flask.</div>
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We always start from the Low House Wood car park and walk right around the lake coming to the Pheasant field at the end which is perfect for a picnic. There was a family there today with a portable barbecue and the smell was intoxicating! There are plenty of felled logs to climb on here and we even found a den to play in.</div>
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A bit further on you have the Visitor Centre with cafe, shop and toilets. It is open at weekends, Bank Holidays and school holidays from Easter to November. Please check outside of these dates for availability.</div>
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All in all, a lovely, sunny day out. We have visited Bolam Lake in all weathers and it is just as beautiful in the winter. Go along and check for yourself, not too many of you though, we don't want to spoil it ;0)</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07405533729358668746noreply@blogger.com7