| Home | My Account | Directories |
Tots 100 Film Club - Cats & Dogs - The Revenge of Kitty Galore in 3D
Published on 2012-05-25 01:56:00
This months film review for Warner Bros & Tots100 Film club was Cats & Dogs - The Revenge Of Kitty Galore - 3D. A couple of months ago our six year old Granddaughter had asked if we could buy this movie in 3D for her to watch next time she comes to stay with us, so we were thrilled to be reviewing it this month. First thing we loved about it before we even had chance to watch the film > read more
Reasons To Be Cheerful
Published on 2012-05-24 11:00:00
It has been a funny ole week here at The Syders. The end of last week something happened at my Daughters School that confirmed my fears that she isn't in a safe environment there. I've had serious doubts about the school ever since I pulled my eldest Daughter out three years ago. I decided to give the school a chance with my youngest and to be honest its been one failure after another, such a > read more
The Gallery - Picture Postcard
Published on 2012-05-23 03:07:00
This weeks Gallery is a really difficult one because I have taken so many 'picture postcard' photo's that it is really hard to choose which ones to use. So I'm going with my favourite place in the whole World - Appledore in North Devon. I know, I know, I've told you a hundred times before what this place means to me. It healed my my broken heart after losing my Mum, as we lived there for 12 > read more
Gold Medallists
Published on 2012-05-22 11:22:00
What a year 2012 is for the UK. First the Queens Diamond Jubilee, then we have the Olympic Games, being held from 27th July to 12th August. We are a buzz with Olympic mania as the whole Country becomes more & more eager to win some Gold. Royal Mail will be recognising the achievements of every single one of Team GB's > read more
Children's Rooms Toddler Bedding Review
Published on 2012-05-22 10:41:00
When I was asked by the lovely people over at Childrens Rooms if I would like to review a product from their toddler bedding range I knew that my little Nephew Charlie would be the perfect person for the job. It wont be long now before Charlie moves up to a Toddler bed from his cot so perfect timing for him to test out some 'big boy' bedding. Charlies lovely Mum Chloe was more than happy to > read more
Silent Sunday
Published on 2012-05-20 03:08:00
Listograpghy - The Top Five things I Love About Kids
Published on 2012-05-19 06:28:00
Kate's Listograpghy is back! Yay! It is now being hosted monthly instead of weekly and this months theme is the Top 5 things we love about kids. 1) Big Cheesy smiles & dodgy haircuts by Mum - I just love em! Especially if you can embarrass them with photographic proof in years to come. Papa & his sisters - groovy or wot! Love it! Sorry Guys, this had to be done! 2) Hilarious Sense of Humour > read more
Bags Of Love Review - Personalised Banksy Style Canvas
Published on 2012-05-19 04:26:00
Put your hand up if you love Banksy. I'm guessing that is the majority of you. Graffiti artist Banksy has become a national treasure despite keeping his identity a closely guarded secret for many years. Only a matter of days ago a new piece appeared on the wall of a shop in Wood Green, North London. Banksy is believed to be behind the art work which depicts a small child working on a sewing > read more
The Gallery - Morning
Published on 2012-05-16 01:53:00
For me the word 'Morning' signifies tea and I love it when its sunny enough to take my tea in the garden and sip slowly as the dew is still on the deck, the birds are singing and my Cockerel is crowing. I'm sat here right now and the sun is actually beaming - Wonder how long it will last? However my mornings haven't always been this relaxing as I used to run around like a lunatic getting the > read more
Magpie Monday
Published on 2012-05-14 05:27:00
I've had a great week for bargains. Firstly I picked up this fab 20inch LCD TV for 20 quid on a local facebook sales group. We have placed it in the corner of our living room to be used as a gaming TV for the kids. They love it. Then I spotted this old kitsch print in a 1950's wooden frame. I got it for £2 and love it. I'll hang it in the summer house. Then just as I was leaving > read more
Silent Sunday
Published on 2012-05-13 04:03:00
Reasons To Be Cheerful
Published on 2012-05-10 05:20:00
We have had so much rain here in the UK over the past few weeks that I'm actually starting to wonder if we are going to get a summer this year, however there are still reasons to be cheerful this week. 1) In spite of all this rain I have been working in the garden and everything is springing to life. I love my garden so much and get such a thrill each year at this time as my garden becomes > read more
My Garden - Before and After
Published on 2012-05-08 07:52:00
We have lived in our little house for three years now and when we moved in the property was pretty bland. We have worked really hard to create a warm cosy home and on a budget. Before in 2008 The garden was really plain & boring and now it is starting to come to life. After in 2012 I love the garden and to be honest I spend more time on my garden than I do my house. There > read more
Silent Sunday
Published on 2012-05-06 02:43:00
Toxic People And What To Do About Them
Published on 2012-05-03 04:35:00
I've talked about toxic people before and how I struggle to mentally & physically cope with them in my life. I used to be an absolute magnet to them and I have had them pass through my life many times and in all forms. Do you know a particular person who always seems to leave you feeling drained, exhausted and just generally gloomy? These people often seem like they are just plain hard > read more
Moon Sand Snack Shop Review
Published on 2012-05-01 04:46:00
We were sent a Spin Master Moon Dough Snack Shop to review from Blog-Match and we really liked it. Spin Master claim that 'Moon Dough is the magical moulding dough that never dries out' and I must admit I was a little sceptical at first, however we have had the moon dough sat out on my Daughters bedroom window sill for the past couple of weeks now and it still feels moist and mouldable. > read more
Magpie Monday - The Retro Blues
Published on 2012-04-30 13:37:00
It feels like ages since I last joined in with Lizzie's Magpie Monday. I have been Charity shopping this week and managed to pick up some little beauties. First up is a lovely retro tea set that I fell in love with. Everything about it really appeals to me... the pattern, the colour and its daintiness. I paid £3 for it. Then I found some more retro loveliness, a red, white & blue cotton > read more
Tots 100 Film Club Review: Happy Feet Two in 3D
Published on 2012-04-30 08:58:00
This months Tots100 Film club review was Happy Feet Two in 3D. We have had a 3D TV for about a year now and have watched quite a few 3D movies on it. It was Papa's 40th birthday pressie, I asked him if he could pick anything at all for his 40th what would it be. He didn't even have to think about it as he quickly blurted out "A 3D TV!" As a family we always enjoy the 3D animated movies the > read more
Silent Sunday
Published on 2012-04-29 04:21:00
Reasons To Be Cheerful
Published on 2012-04-26 13:41:00
I've had a wonderful past few weeks. Easter was fab, as my Sister in Law spent a fortnight with us. It was so great to catch up as I haven't actually seen her for eleven years up until now and our friendship was renewed. Missing her now though :-( But not to worry she will be back for The Queens jubilee & My Sons 21st birthday in June, Yay! So going back to this past week, my reasons for > read more
The Gallery - Action
Published on 2012-04-25 01:56:00
Ready Steady Go... > read more
Chest Of Drawers Makeover
Published on 2012-04-23 08:28:00
Back in 2010 I gave our then nine year old Daughter's bedroom a makeover. We went for a pretty shabby chic look, Papa built her a mid-sleeper bed and I painted her old furniture to match the decor with a Cath Kidston style wallpaper. The room served its purpose well but now she is twelve she wanted a more grown up look to her bedroom. Rather than buy new furniture I always prefer to makeover > read more
#Win a £50 Experience Days Gift Voucher
Published on 2012-04-22 10:19:00
Experience Days is the home of experience gifts and experience days in the UK, where you’ll find a stunning range of unique gifts, presents and activity days. Whether you’re looking for the perfect romantic gifts for a partner or an activity day out with the family; They have got the experiences to ensure you make it a day to remember. They have a fantastic range of themed gifts for > read more
Silent Sunday
Published on 2012-04-22 04:19:00
Moon Sand Pet Shop Review
Published on 2012-04-21 11:29:00
Moon Sand Pet Shop enables your kids to create adorable pets made from sand. We were really thrilled to be picked by www.blog-match.com to review this as moon sand is something I've never bought before. The kids were really excited to try this toy out and all eagerly sat around the table waiting for the box to be opened. The kit is really aimed at ages 3 - 7 yrs, although it wasn't > read more
Listography - Top 5 wishes For My Children
Published on 2012-04-21 06:29:00
Kate's Listography is back this week with a bang! Kate asks us if we were granted 5 wishes for our kids what would they be. 1) For each of them to enjoy our natural world and all it has to offer. To fully love the Earth and feel a sense of peace and calm from their natural surroundings. During times of stress to be able to sit by the sea, a river, a mountain, a farmers field, the forest > read more
Growing Vegetables In Raised Beds & Potatoes In Bags
Published on 2012-04-19 11:23:00
Since giving up the lottie last year we have spent the winter preparing my back garden for growing my veg. I don't have as much space for growing vegetables in the garden as I did down the lottie but I'm still determined to harvest a good crop. First thing Papa & I did last year was put in some raised beds. My garden is surrounded by a lot of trees that suck the nutrients away from > read more
Silent Sunday
Published on 2012-04-15 05:50:00
The Gallery - Easter
Published on 2012-04-11 02:34:00
We have had a wonderful Easter. Papa's Sister and two of her kids decided to come and stay with us for a fortnight. To say we were excited is an understatement. We haven't seen them for years so we couldn't wait to spend some quality time with them. First thing we did after they arrived was go crabbing. We caught lots of crabs. The kids really enjoyed it. We have also had our > read more
Dalani Twin Competition Winners
Published on 2012-04-10 05:03:00
Dalani Twin Competition The Winner of the £50 Dalani Voucher for my Blog is 'D' from Blissful Rainbow And The two winners from all 36 participating blogs who will receive the £250 Dalani vouchers are: · Kate Rampersad who commented on All Baby Advice; and · Rhoda who commented on White Lily Green Congratulations to the winners and a huge Thankyou to Everyone who took part and > read more
Listography - Top 5 Albums By Male Solo Artists
Published on 2012-04-09 07:24:00
It feels like ages since I joined in with Kate's Listography. Its my favourite meme but I've just been so busy the last few weeks that I just haven't had the time. But here goes...My Top 5 Albums By Male Solo Artists. 1) Usher - 8701. I Love Usher. I'm more of a rock Chick but I do also enjoy a bit of R&B. This album is from 2001 and is ace. I never tire of it. 2) Meatloaf - Bat out of > read more
A Guide To Brighton Pier On A Budget
Published on 2012-04-09 05:40:00
Its the School Easter holidays and we decided to spend our Easter day trip at Brighton Pier. As usual we like to do these things on a budget as amusement parks can end up costing an arm and a leg. We have a family rail card and we use this a lot throughout the year although sometimes you can get train fares just as cheap without a railcard by getting 'groupsave' tickets. With groupsave 2 > read more
Silent Sunday
Published on 2012-04-08 06:22:00
Thank The Honeybees With Flowers!
Published on 2012-04-05 07:22:00
Win An Ecoegg Laundry Egg - 5 to Giveaway!
Published on 2012-04-04 09:43:00
Have you heard of the Ecoegg? The ecoegg laundry egg is the revolutionary new way to wash your clothes. It completely replaces washing powder or liquid and is just as effective but will save you so much money, the new alternative to laundry detergent When I was asked if I would like to review the ecoegg laundry egg I was really keen to try it out. Eco friendly and lasts up to 720 > read more
The Gallery - At Peace
Published on 2012-04-04 04:15:00
I love to be beside water. It calms me. It relaxes me. I feel at Peace. I love to be close to nature. It reminds me that the small things in life give us so much pleasure. When I watch my Grandchild enjoy the small things I feel at Peace. Watching the kids enjoy their natural surroundings makes me smile and when I see them enjoying nature I feel at Peace. When I Watch the > read more
Silent Sunday
Published on 2012-04-01 03:18:00
The 3 winners of the LalaloopsyLand DVD
Published on 2012-03-30 03:26:00
And the winners are... results powered by Random.org Entry #146 Heather S. Entry #41 Shelly W. Entry #102 Auddy Congratulations! I have emailed you all for your details. If I haven't heard from you by Monday morning I will need to pick new winners. Thanks to all who took part. > read more
Tots 100 Film Club - Black Beauty
Published on 2012-03-30 03:07:00
Was you a little girl or boy who grew up on the classic story of Black Beauty? I was, and as a child I watched it on TV all the time so when Tots100 film club sent me a copy of the classic Black Beauty to review I was really excited to watch it. Considering I'm a complete movie addict, I wondered why I hadn't watched this film before. Then as I saw Papa's eyes roll when I suggested he sit an > read more
YooMoo Frozen Yogurt Review
Published on 2012-03-29 15:33:00
Have you ever tried YooMoo frozen yogurt? Well, if you haven't you are seriously missing out! YooMoo have yogurt bars dotted around various locations across the country and have now introduced their new YooMoo home range that are available from all major supermarkets. I popped along to my local supermarket and picked up a few different flavours (150ml pots of devilmoo, angelmoo, > read more
The Gallery - Extreme Close Up
Published on 2012-03-28 02:12:00
Me & My Best Friend Linking up to The Gallery > read more
Being A Mum And Working Part Time
Published on 2012-03-26 03:05:00
I am a 41 year old Mum (and a Nan). My kids are becoming more and more off hand, the eldest being nearly 22 and my baby is now 12. I often sit here and wonder where the years gone? It only seems like yesterday when I was a young Mum, the four kids were all little and I was running around like a lunatic trying to keep up with them. I always worked part time and for a while I was also a > read more
Silent Sunday
Published on 2012-03-25 04:50:00
Dalani Home & Living - Twin Competition
Published on 2012-03-22 13:47:00
I have spent the last three years trying to create a comfortable home for my family and I am always on the look out for cosy, quirky things for my little house and garden so I was really pleased to have been asked to write a post for Dalani Home & Living especially as it gives my lovely readers the chance to win not just one competition but two. How exciting is that! Dalani Home & > read more
The Gallery - Colour
Published on 2012-03-21 02:53:00
The Colours Of The Candy Store I could spend hours in the candy store... The colours... The Sweet, Mouth Watering Aroma's... Entice Me In... To Touch and To Taste... Row After Row Of Sweet, Colourful Candy. Linking up to The Gallery > read more
How Is Protein Good For The Family?
Published on 2012-03-20 07:26:00
Sponsored Post I'm not a massive meat eater. I'll eat a small amount of red meat but I tend to eat more chicken & fish and when I'm trying to lose weight I notice my body always responds really well if I cut out carbs and eat more protein. The first time I ever went on a diet was after my first child back in 1990. I put on three stone during my pregnancy and I lost it all within three > read more
What Was Top Of The Charts The Year Your Kids Were Born
Published on 2012-03-19 05:53:00
I've been tagged by the very lovely Ladies Elizabeth & Donna over at Mummy Central with this really fab meme. I love that music can take us right back to a certain place or time in our lives. Certain tunes remind me of my childhood, my school days, my wild teenage years, when I met Papa, when I married him or sadder times like when I lost my Mum. This meme invited me to delve into the past > read more
Silent Sunday
Published on 2012-03-18 02:52:00
Sainsbury's Money Matters Guest Post -Tips for trouble-free family car journeys
Published on 2012-03-17 18:36:00
Family holidays should be fun, but a long car journey to reach the destination can leave some drivers wishing they’d never left home. Children can be demanding and disruptive passengers, especially when they’re hyped-up with the excitement of going on holiday. Happily, this is a problem you can avoid with a little forethought. Planning your journey in advance should help keep you and > read more
Flashback Friday - Mothers Day
Published on 2012-03-16 02:36:00
(1969) That first year I lost Mum I remember I was visiting Avebury stone circle a few days before Mothers Day. I was with a lovely friend of mine Jenny who was a lady in her fifties, in fact she was the same age as Mum was when she passed away...56. (1971) We had been having a really fab day studying the magnificent standing stones, Silbury Hill and West Kennett Burrow. We > read more
Disney On Ice Review
Published on 2012-03-12 02:56:00
Disney on Ice is returning this month with their latest show 'Princesses & Heroes'. The production stunningly recreates everyone’s favourite moments from the classic Disney films, combing them with spectacular ice skating stunts and breathtaking acrobatics. It will be touring across the country, visiting London, Birmingham, Liverpool and Sheffield. We were very lucky to be asked if we would > read more
Silent Sunday
Published on 2012-03-11 04:08:00
Flashback Friday - Toys from our Past
Published on 2012-03-09 03:45:00
I was a child from the 1970's so we didn't have all the stuff kids have nowadays. We had games consoles but they were a basic 'ping pong' tennis game, the Internet was unheard of and if someone had suggested it to us it would have sounded like a scene from 'Space 1999' or 'Buck Rogers'. We made our own entertainment back then with a few toys chucked in. My favourite was my 'Sindy' doll. I > read more
Gorgeous George & The Giant Geriatric Generator Review
Published on 2012-03-08 03:06:00
My little Big Town launches a hilarious new Children's book - Gorgeous George & The Giant Geriatric Generator. We were sent a copy of this book to review and my twelve year old eagerly placed it beside her bed ready to read. Who's the author? This book is the debut work of Scottish author Stuart Reid who has embarked on a book reading tour throughout Scotland and England. He has already > read more
The Gallery - Light
Published on 2012-03-07 01:43:00
One of the things I like about living in a coastal town is how different the light can look down by the water at various times. It means that the same view never gets boring. The sunsets are the best though and here are a few of my favourites. As you can see every sunset is different and the lighting is simply beautiful. Linking up to Tara's Gallery > read more
Magpie Monday - Bedroom Delights
Published on 2012-03-05 02:33:00
As some of you might know I've been decorating my bedroom which seems like forever. The wallpaper I ordered back in January was out of stock and a few weeks ago it became available again which means I now finally have my bedroom finished (well, sort of). I still needed a lampshade to match my new purple decor and during my visit to my local Charity shop I spotted a pretty lilac one. A > read more
Silent Sunday
Published on 2012-03-04 03:42:00
Flashback Friday - Memories of Home (1996)
Published on 2012-03-02 02:26:00
Last week I put some old camera films in to get developed. They were my Mums and have been at the bottom of a box of photo's since she passed away. I can't ever remember Mum having a camera so I was thrilled when the photo's came back and I realised that they were all taken during 1996 at our family home. I have many many fond memories of this house, area and all the local kids. My Mum > read more
The Gallery - Friends
Published on 2012-02-29 03:01:00
Friend wise I have gone through phases from lots to none, to lots to none again. I think lots of us go through that in our lives. Hubby and I come from different parts of the country and when we met he had recently moved to Essex so we had no mutual friends. Then we married and started our family at a young age and I found those early years I was pretty much friendless. It was a lonely time as > read more
Mothers Day Gift Ideas for under £13
Published on 2012-02-28 04:25:00
You know I have a bit of a soft spot for Russian Dolls don't you. Not really sure what it is about them maybe its their kitsch colours or that they remind me of my childhood. My Nan had a set that I would sit and play with for hours and my Granddaughter now does the same with my Russian Doll set. So when the lovely people over at http://www.find-me-a-gift.co.uk/ asked me if I'd like to > read more
Magpie Monday - Its all yellow
Published on 2012-02-27 03:37:00
I'm really happy with my Magpie finds this week and Im pleased to back in the swing of things again. First thing I bought from my local charity shop this week was some lovely yellow wool. All three balls for £1.50. I love the colour and have started making some leg warmers with it which I hope to match with my lemon PJ's. Then I spotted an outdoor light that looks as though it has never > read more
Silent Sunday
Published on 2012-02-26 02:47:00
Flashback Friday - 1985
Published on 2012-02-24 03:50:00
Flashback Friday is back and being hosted by Emma over at A Matter of Choice. I love looking through other peoples old photos and sharing their memories. Their past is what has made them the people they are today and I just think its interesting hearing about peoples experiences in life so I'm really pleased this linky is up and running again. So for my first week of linking up I'm taking > read more
The Gallery - Landscape
Published on 2012-02-22 03:15:00
As a lot of you know one of my favourite places in the whole world is North Devon. We lived there for 12 months a few years ago not long after losing my lovely Mum to Cancer. The village we lived in was called Appledore and it is a very special place to us. I have even described it before as feeling like this beautiful place wrapped its big green arms around me and gave me huge comfort > read more
Happy Birthday Mum!
Published on 2012-02-21 03:35:00
♥ Happy Birthday Mum! ♥ I can't even begin to describe how much I miss you...especially now as I need you more than ever. I so need to hear your voice and for you to tell me that everything is going to be ok. I'll never stop needing you. ♥ Love you Mum ♥ > read more
Listography - Top 5 Things That Make Me Happy
Published on 2012-02-20 09:10:00
This weeks Listography is following on from Kate's Blog Hop The Happiness Project. I really enjoyed joining in with that and reading what made everyones kids happy. Some of the answers were really entertaining and sweet. So this week its our turn. I have the obvious things like my Family, crafts, gardening and my chickens but I have other things that make me happy too. So Five things that make > read more
Silent Sunday
Published on 2012-02-19 04:43:00
I've been Tagged!
Published on 2012-02-17 02:40:00
I've been tagged twice this week first by Hannah over at Cupcake Mumma then a few days later by Heather at SAHM - Loving it. The idea is for me to answer 11 questions that have been set by my taggers, create 11 new questions and then pass the tag on to more bloggers. As I've been tagged twice I'm going to choose six questions to answer from each person. Hannah's Questions 1. How long have > read more
Reasons to Be Cheerful
Published on 2012-02-16 02:48:00
It has been a really happy week here at The Syders mainly because it is half term but other reasons that I have to be cheerful are: 1) Our Granddaughter is staying with us for a half term visit. We all look forward to the school holidays for this reason. She brings us so much Joy and she is so funny. A few days ago She turned to Grandad and said "Its my birthday tomorrow Grandad" (Its > read more
Listography - What a Mug!
Published on 2012-02-15 10:00:00
OK, so I nearly didn't join in with this weeks Listography because I'm really not a massive Mug user (I prefer small cups) and the ones I do have I didn't think were very interesting but then Kate mentioned the chance of winning a Cath Kidston mug I just couldn't resist linking up. My Mug - It is vintage bone china and its a mini mug. It is the only cup I will use and if anyone makes me a > read more
The Gallery - Embarrassing Outfits
Published on 2012-02-15 04:15:00
This weeks Gallery is going to be an interesting one. I can't wait to have a giggle over everyones embarrassing outfits. Being a 70's child I have quite a few like the horrible dresses my Mum would make me wear in the 70's and the famous 80's perm. However I find the most embarrassing era for me was the 90's and not long ago my eldest Brother tagged me this photo on facebook and I couldn't stop > read more
The Love of My Life...
Published on 2012-02-14 03:02:00
Got your sick buckets at the ready? You might need them for this post as it is probably going to contain some mush. As it is Valentines day today my thoughts turn to the only Valentine I've ever really had...My Hubby. Apart from my Dad I can't remember ever receiving a Valentines card from anyone else. Although Dad would send me a card every year and sign it with just his initial I still > read more
Silent Sunday
Published on 2012-02-12 04:45:00
What Really Makes Us Happy?
Published on 2012-02-10 03:39:00
The lovely Kate has been questioning what truly makes us happy in life. I questioned the exact same thing the year my Mum died. As I spent her last days sitting by her side I realised that the only thing that really mattered to her was her Children and the Grandkids. Her only regret was that she didn't get to retire and spend more days at the seaside with her Grandchildren. Mum told me > read more
Celebrities are Pushing The Envelope
Published on 2012-02-09 06:13:00
(Rod Campbell's envelope) Prominent names from the fields of art, design, fashion, television, theatre, film, sport and literature are getting creative this year by designing envelopes that will be sold to the public to help raise money for the National Literacy Trust. This is the seventh annual Pitney Bowes 'Pushing the Envelope' campaign and the celebs involved have transformed > read more
The Gallery - A Family Story
Published on 2012-02-08 01:59:00
I Love old family photo's and I have a fascination with the women who walked before me. My Great Grandmothers on both sides intrigue me. I have been told my Great Grandmother on my Dads side was a petite, feisty cockney who adored her four boys, one of which was my Grandad and on my Mums side she was well spoken, gentle and came from 'posh' stock. I only really know about these two Great > read more
My Phonics Kit Review
Published on 2012-02-07 06:31:00
Much-loved characters Biff, Chip and Kipper are offering a helping hand in run up to the Government’s new phonics check. This summer all six year olds in schools across the UK will be having the first ever phonics checks. To help children prepare for these checks Oxford University Press have just launched a new phonics activity pack that is designed to support parents whose children are in > read more
Listography - Five Things I'd like to do this Summer
Published on 2011-07-05 11:53:00
This weeks Listography is a nice easy one for me as I have sooooo much I want to get done this summer, like day trips with our Granddaughter, getting a new pool for the garden, lose more weight and finish all those odd jobs before winter...the list i > read more
Magpie Monday - A penny For Your Thoughts
Published on 2011-07-04 09:24:00
I'm on a tight budget at the moment as it seems one appliance after another has packed up. First the cooker, then the washing machine and to top it off Papa's hours have been cut for a few weeks as the hotel he works for has no weekend bookings over > read more
Silent Sunday
Published on 2011-07-03 03:53:00
Silent Sunday > read more
Devon Family Living 'off Grid' and Facing Eviction!
Published on 2011-07-02 06:55:00
Just imagine spending years of dreaming about living 'The Good Life' then one day it becomes a reality. You give up the rat race, suburban living, the big smoke, the hustle, the bustle. Living a life in a place where you become totally self sufficien > read more
Flashback Friday - Center Parcs in France 1988
Published on 2011-07-01 08:46:00
Back in 1988 when I had just got engaged to Papa Syder my Mum asked where we would like to go for our family holiday, she gave us two choices either one week on the Canaries or two weeks Center Parcs in France. Without a second hesitation we picked c > read more
The Gallery - My Weekend
Published on 2011-06-29 03:08:00
Wow...Wasn't the weekend a scorcher! We spent it enjoying the sun by firstly eating our Lunch in the garden. Any excuse for a barbie but how can you eat inside with weather like this! Then we decided to go out for a relaxing walk... We sa > read more
My Retro Caravan
Published on 2011-06-28 07:13:00
I am thrilled to be the new owner of a retro 1978 Cosalt caravan. One of our neighbours spotted it for sale on someones drive and originally he wanted it for himself but just didn't have the room to store it so he pointed me & papa in its directi > read more
Magpie Monday - Bouquets & A Revamped Lamp
Published on 2011-06-27 03:39:00
I have been cracking on with my bedroom makeover this past couple of weeks. I was going for a 30/40's look but it is becoming a bit of a mis-mash of a few different era's as I collect vintage accessories to dress the room. We have painted the walls a > read more
Silent Sunday
Published on 2011-06-26 03:55:00
Silent Sunday > read more
Flashback Friday - Jersey 2001
Published on 2011-06-24 05:35:00
A few weeks back I wrote a Flashback Friday about the time back in 1981 that My Mum took me a three of my Brothers to Jersey following her divorce from our Dad. We also moved house that year to a new area so Mum taking us away at that time really hel > read more
The Gallery - Three words
Published on 2011-06-22 04:42:00
Ok so Tara Cain over at Sticky Fingers has asked us to produce a three word Gallery and I must admit I was a bit baffled as to what I was going to do so I began flicking through my albums and it suddenly struck me...Of course it has to be.. > read more
My Bloomin Garden - June
Published on 2011-06-21 05:36:00
So Lots is Blooming in my garden at the moment. I have worked very hard in the garden since I moved here 18 months ago and as you fellow gardeners know it takes a few years to get your garden how you want...but then again do you ever get it how you w > read more
Magpie Monday - Pyrex, Roses, Ribbons & Lace
Published on 2011-06-20 03:06:00
Pyrex, Roses, Ribbons & Lace these are a few of my favourite things. I am thrilled with this weeks Magpie finds...Lots of lovely vintage charity shop finds and first up we have some vintage Pyrex. Most of us Magpies have 'a thing' for Pyr > read more
Silent Sunday
Published on 2011-06-19 03:16:00
Linking up to Silent Sunday...over at HerMelness for this week > read more
Flashback Friday - Walt Disney World 1978
Published on 2011-06-17 10:20:00
Back in 1978 I was lucky enough to visit Disney World in Florida with my Mum, Dad and two of my Brothers. It was quite rare for British families to go as far as the US for their holidays back then so it really was a very exciting adventure for us. It > read more
Growing your own Veg - Cabbage and Kale pests
Published on 2011-06-16 02:38:00
Back in March I planted my Kale seeds and after a few weeks they were coming along lovely so I thinned them out and separated them into individual pots to encourage a stronger & healthier root growth. You can read the post here. Well look at t > read more
The Gallery - Dads
Published on 2011-06-14 14:34:00
The theme for The Gallery over at Sticky Fingers this week is 'Dads' and in a lot of ways it is a sensitive one for me. In fact it is a theme that has dominated my life. I have no relationship with My own Dad (As I have written before here), he is > read more
#Mumentum - Wicked Weekends
Published on 2011-06-14 03:13:00
Good Morning Lovely people! So how have we all done on our diets this week? Anyone been reaching for the biscuit barrel, had one, three or five too many wines or shovelled in bars of chocolate because you haven't got the cupboards stocked with the > read more
Magpie Monday - Song of the Surf
Published on 2011-06-13 02:06:00
Yay, Its Magpie Monday again! I really look forward to having a look at what bargains everyone else has found during the week. So for this week I picked up a few bargains from my local charity shop that I am really pleased with. I really lov > read more
Silent Sunday
Published on 2011-06-12 03:37:00
Silent Sunday > read more
Reasons to be cheerful
Published on 2011-06-11 04:07:00
1) We have booked this years holiday (At last) - We haven't been on a family holiday for five and a half years. So much has happened and changed in our lives since our last holiday, losing Mum, Papa & I separating, getting back together, moving h > read more
Flashback Friday - Warning - Contains very scary retro Dolly content
Published on 2011-06-10 02:28:00
As well as being a 'Tom Boy' as a child and enjoying all things that got me covered in mud I also loved dollies. I had all kinds of dolls like Sindy seen here above ( 1978) with me age 8, proudly showing off my favourite one and two of my Brothers. I > read more
Courage and Grief
Published on 2011-06-07 06:04:00
I remember the day my Brother called me. It was a hot sunny bank holiday weekend in August five years ago and we were on a camping trip with the kids. The previous six months had been hard on us all with me travelling 200 miles back and forth to Esse > read more
Mumentum - Week one
Published on 2011-06-06 06:29:00
I joined Weight Watchers three weeks ago after a lovely neighbour of mine knocked on my door and invited me to go along with her and her sister. I had previously joined my local Slimming world and to be honest this weight watchers group is much bette > read more
Crinoline Lady and yellow Rose curtains
Published on 2011-06-06 03:32:00
I didn't go to the charity shop this week as it was half term and we had our Granddaughter staying with us and I just didn't get the time. However I've been on ebay...Lots. My first bargain is a Smelton Crinoline lady cake plate. It was only > read more
Listography - The Good Decisions I have Made
Published on 2011-06-05 08:25:00
I really love Kate's theme for this weeks listography...The top five decisions that I am glad I made. It is inspired by the fab Chris Mosler over at Thinly Spread who is 'making a difference' over in Africa for the Save the Children 'No Child Born To > read more
Silent Sunday
Published on 2011-06-05 04:14:00
Silent Sunday > read more
My Weight Loss Story
Published on 2011-06-04 06:00:00
I have always been a bit obsessed with my weight although saying that it didn't actually start until I was about eighteen. I can't actually even remember weighing myself until then. Mum always stocked a healthy larder full of fruit, cereal bars and b > read more
Reasons to be cheerful
Published on 2011-06-03 08:39:00
It has been a lovely week here in the Syder House and I have lots of reasons for being cheerful... 1) I lost 3LB at weight watchers this week which means almost a stone in three weeks so I'm thrilled...I've even bought a new vintage dress pa > read more
Flashback Friday - Happy Birthday Fluff
Published on 2011-06-03 04:12:00
Twenty years ago today I went into labour two weeks overdue with our second Son. I was in hospital already as I'd had a show and was possible C-Section. I had been told during my first pregnancy that I will never give birth naturally as my pelvis is > read more
The Garden in May/June
Published on 2011-06-02 04:42:00
May & June are lovely months in the garden. Lots of flowers are in bloom, roses are everywhere. My veggies and pots seem to be thriving even though it has been quite dry down here in the South of England and you can really tell by the state of my > read more
The Gallery - For What I am grateful
Published on 2011-06-01 03:58:00
There are so many things in my life that I am Grateful for. Losing Mum five years ago taught me a lot of things and the main thing being that it does not matter what material things you have in your life, they mean absolutely nothing if you do not ha > read more
Magpie Monday - Something for the kids
Published on 2011-05-31 09:55:00
I know, I know it is Tuesday (Sorry Liz) but I was really super busy yesterday (re-designing my blog) and didn't get the time to link up so I'm a day late for Magpie Monday. This week my 11 year is the star of the show as I dragged her down to the c > read more
Listography - Finals
Published on 2011-05-29 10:18:00
Kates Listography is being hosted by one another blogger this week and that blogger (Keith) writes one of my favourite Blogs - Chronicles of a Reluctant Housedad and he came up with a great theme that certainly got my brain cells fired up. In > read more
Silent Sunday
Published on 2011-05-29 07:32:00
Silent Sunday > read more
Flashback Friday - Our Grandad
Published on 2011-05-27 05:11:00
Some of my fondest childhood memories were spent at our Granddad's shop in East London. Grandad (Mums Dad) was a Greengrocer and he had two shops in the East end. He was a big happy rosy cheeked character originally from Southern Ireland an > read more
The Gallery - My Backyard
Published on 2011-05-25 03:09:00
For this weeks Gallery I couldn't use just one photo for my backyard so I have a gallery of photo's to show you around where I spend most of my time when I'm not Blogging, sewing, crocheting or doing the housework. This first photo is where > read more
Ryan Giggs - Named
Published on 2011-05-24 05:13:00
John Hemming MP yesterday named Manchester United's Ryan Giggs as 'that' footballer who is at the centre of 'that' super injunction story that we have all been whispering about. We all knew who it was as someone had leaked his name on > read more
Listography - Five Albums by Bands
Published on 2011-05-23 09:00:00
Listography this week over at Kate Takes 5 is Five albums by Bands. Hands down this is my most difficult Listography so far. I have sooooo many favourite albums by different bands that it is impossible to just choose five so I've decided to take you > read more
Powermat Review
Published on 2011-05-23 06:12:00
I was very excited to have been asked to review a brand new gadget called the Powermat. Mr Postman knocked on my front door and I was very pleased to receive a bundle of various accessories to try. Papa and the Teenagers sw > read more
Vintage Goodies for £1.50
Published on 2011-05-23 01:59:00
I was very pleased with my bargains this week, I have won a pair of vintage 1950's yellow rose curtains for my bedroom on ebay but they haven't arrived yet, I'll show you those next week. Anyway at the charity shop this week the first thing I > read more
Silent Sunday
Published on 2011-05-22 04:18:00
Silent Sunday > read more
Elderflower pannacotta and Eggy Bread
Published on 2011-05-21 07:21:00
There is something quite satisfying about collecting eggs from your own hens and then making tasty treats using them and foraged elderflower. Elderflower is in abundance at the moment and I am lucky enough to have a huge one growing over my > read more
Flashback Friday - He Aint Heavy, He's My Brother
Published on 2011-05-20 02:29:00
This is photo was taken around 1984/5. I was about 15 and Mum had got a photographer round to the house to take a family photo of me and my younger Brothers. I do actually have five Brothers but the youngest wasn't born at the time of this photo bein > read more
Handmade Thursday - Kitchen curtains and Bunting
Published on 2011-05-19 06:26:00
Its been a while since I joined in with White Lily Green's Handmade Thursday mainly because I haven't really been making because I've been super busy in the garden. Anyway last week I painted my Kitchen pink and needed some new curtains so I made so > read more
Dear Granddaughter
Published on 2011-05-19 05:01:00
Dear Our Five year old Granddaughter, Today I want to tell you ten things that I Love about you. 1) You bring sunshine - Everytime you come to stay during school holidays you bring sunshine. I have no idea how the hell you do it but > read more
The Gallery - Mustachioed
Published on 2011-05-18 07:28:00
This photo for Sticky Fingers The Gallery was taken about 18 years ago. It is my second Son and he was about two years old. I was always quite strict with giving the kids chocolate and sweets and never gave them milk chocolate although not so now, th > read more
Imogen Thomas - A Hussey or a Victim of Love?
Published on 2011-05-17 08:02:00
OK, So I've been following the Imogen Thomas super injunction story for the past couple of weeks now mainly because I'm such a nosey cow but also because the story has me intrigued. I've watched her in the media looking all innocent and so > read more
Listography - Products I couldn't live without
Published on 2011-05-17 02:59:00
This weeks Listography over at the lovely Kate Takes 5 is 'Five Products I couldn't live without'. 1) First thing is my coffee. I'm a complete addict and a nightmare in the mornings if I haven't had a cup. Have you seen that hilarious retro > read more
Magpie Monday - This week at the Charity shop
Published on 2011-05-16 02:47:00
Yay...Its Magpie Monday again and I did manage to get a few bargains this week at the charity shop. Firstly I am in the process of decorating my bedroom in 1930's vintage style which means lots of lush linen including lacy, crocheted cushions. > read more
Silent Sunday
Published on 2011-05-15 03:30:00
Flashback Friday - Before and After
Published on 2011-05-13 13:28:00
For this weeks Flashback Friday over at Cafe Bebe, the lovely Karin set us a little theme of 'Before and After'. I thought I'd share some photos of my lounge when the people who lived here before had the house and then when we had it. > read more
The Gallery - chilled out
Published on 2011-05-11 03:05:00
There are loads of photo's that I could have gone with for this weeks Gallery theme 'chilled out' over at Sticky Fingers. I am a strong believer in chilling out for sanity sake and I was gonna go with photo's of fish & chips on the beach, BBQ's, > read more
Sleepovers and the crazy mother woman
Published on 2011-05-09 13:21:00
Ok so your little darling has been driving you nuts to host a sleepover. "Please Mum...It will be just like The Sleepover Club on TV" She looks at you with those big begging eyes that you always struggle not to cave into. Too late...you feel you > read more
Magpie Monday - Trifle and Cake
Published on 2011-05-09 02:34:00
So this week has been a week of real bargains for me. I managed to bag a whole 1930's bedroom suite (Double bed, bedside cabinet and wardrobe) for 30 quid from ebay. At the moment I have all pine in my bedroom...it is all lovely stuff including a sol > read more
Silent Sunday
Published on 2011-05-08 03:44:00
Silent Sunday > read more
Flashback Friday - Canadian Cousins 1981
Published on 2011-05-06 01:28:00
For this weeks Flashback Friday over at Cafe Bebe's I've decided to share a photo one of my Brothers recently tagged me in on Facebook. He has not long returned from Canada and I think he must have got this one from our Auntie who lives over there as > read more
The Love of my life
Published on 2011-05-05 05:14:00
Ok so when @Manicmum4 tagged me in a tweet to join in with a meme that her and @superamazingmum had put together I was intrigued as to what it was. I must admit I was really pleased to see that it was a 'Peeping Tom' meme as I'm so nosey and thi > read more
The Gallery - April
Published on 2011-05-04 03:11:00
What a month April was this year. Here in The Syder house we had one celebration after another starting with Easter, glorious sunshine, Papa's 40th birthday and the Royal Wedding to finish of what was a fun and busy month. So for this weeks Galle > read more
Listography - Simple Pleasures
Published on 2011-05-02 02:06:00
This weeks Listography over at Kate Takes 5 is 'Simple Pleasures'. I have quite a few as I'm a simple kinda girl...the small things in life always give me the most pleasure. 1) The Garden - I Love being outside in the garden especially on a warm s > read more
Silent Sunday
Published on 2011-05-01 03:21:00
Silent Sunday > read more
The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge Royal Wedding
Published on 2011-04-30 06:36:00
Prince William and Kate Middleton were pronounced Man and Wife at Westminster Abbey as they made their vows in front of nearly 2000 guests yesterday and watched by 24 million people on TV in the UK, 2 billion globally. Wasn't it a day > read more
Flashback Friday - My First Born Turns 21
Published on 2011-04-29 03:20:00
Today is the much anticipated Royal Wedding that I am soooooo excited about however this weekend we also celebrate our first Born's 21st birthday, so I thought I'd put together a post of him throughout the years for this weeks Flashback Friday over a > read more
Spring into my neighbourhood
Published on 2011-04-28 02:53:00
I Love where I live. I have lived in lots of very different places across the UK from one of the roughest estates in East London to a cottage in North Devon that backed on to the sea but where I am now is where I am happiest. People often say I > read more
The Dogs DooDah's Personalised card Review
Published on 2011-04-27 09:40:00
We are a household who just love to play pranks on people and Papa plays the biggest and best. I would go as far as saying He is a Master of 'Gotcha's' so when the lovely people over at The Dog's Doodah's asked me if I would like to try out their per > read more
The Gallery - Green
Published on 2011-04-27 02:26:00
For this weeks Gallery over at Sticky Fingers I thought I'd use a photo of our Bouncy Boxer Dog, Luna as we are approaching her 9th birthday. We have know Luna since the day she was born, her Mum Flower belonged to a friend of ours. I had been te > read more
Countdown to the Royal Wedding - Crispy cakes and bunting
Published on 2011-04-26 12:18:00
So the countdown has began...only three more sleeps until the Royal Wedding. Whether you are excited or dreading it, unless you are planning on leaving the country or totally hibernating away somewhere in the middle of nowhere then there is no gettin > read more
Listography - Things I'd Change About My wedding Day
Published on 2011-04-26 01:19:00
This weeks listography over at Kate Takes 5 is Five Things I would change about My Wedding Day. There isn't anything major that I would change about my wedding day. I feel I was very lucky to have had a white wedding in a church as Papa an > read more
Magpie Monday - Easter Charity shop Finds
Published on 2011-04-25 05:13:00
I am really pleased with what I found at the charity shop this week and thrilled to share my finds on Magpie Monday over at Me and my Shadow. First thing I spotted was a lovely new bag in a vintage style fabric. I was instantly drawn to it. It is a > read more
Silent Sunday
Published on 2011-04-24 02:20:00