Ice Age 4 continental drift triple play dvd review

We were really lucky (I jumped up and down with excitement for this one!) to receive a copy of Ice Age 4 continental drift to review - I'm a huge fan of the Ice Age movies and Blake got started on Ice Age last Christmas when I bought the Christmas special DVD. With this 4th instalment, we were not disappointed - I don't think the "Ice Age" franchise is going stale any time soon so please bring on Ice Age 5 soon! Ice Age 4 is action packed and full of the excitement you'd expect to find ... and some! This feature film includes pirates - one of my 3 year old boy's favourite things! There are bits that make even my 1 year old giggle and although there are moments of some combat scenes, I didn't feel that these were too much for Blake (age 3) who literally copies everything he sees. There's only one part which he felt was too scary (sea siren monsters) but this is a short part in the film and hasn't stopped him asking to watch the film.
Ice Age 4 has become our most watched DVD of the week and even warrants a forfeit of Blake's usual choices and favourites for tv time!
The triple play edition is excellent as it comes with blu-ray, DVD and digital copy. The digital version is on Ultraviolet which I'm fairly new at and to be honest I haven't figured out how to get the UV digital copies onto my iTunes library yet although it clearly states that you can watch it on ipad/ipod/iphone so I must be missing something obvious! The kids have their own dvd player in the kitchen and we watch on blu ray via the hubby's xbox in the living room so I really appreciate the triple play pack!

In the dvd special features, my two little people love the Gutts sing along video and the Sid shuffle dance videos.

I like guessing who the actor is behind the new character voices and was pleased that Nick Frost is one of them!

Most importantly - Scrat and his acorn pops up a lot!

Great stocking filler or extra for this Christmas!

http://www.facebook.com/IceAge4UK


The world’s most beloved prehistoric herd is back and this time they’re setting off on a hilarious high seas adventure! ICE AGE 4: CONTINENTAL DRIFT sails into stores this Christmas available in Triple Play, Blu-ray 3D and DVD on 10 December from Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment.

This all-new chapter in the beloved ICE AGE franchise reconnects families with herd favourites Manny, Sid, and Diego. Joining familiar friends of the Ice Age world on their latest journey is Sid’s long-lost and side-splittingly funny Granny plus a band of pirates led by the fearsome orangutan Captain Gutt. And no ICE AGE film would be complete without celebrated icon Scrat, whose existence revolves around the elusive acorn. Scrat once again returns with his very own exploits; however this time his pursuits result in world-changing consequences.

The regular creative voices of Ray Romano (Everybody Loves Raymond) as Manny, Denis Leary (The Amazing Spiderman) as Diego, John Leguizamo (Romeo + Juliet) as Sid, Queen Latifah (Chicago) as Ellie, Seann William Scott (American Pie) as Crash, Simon Pegg (Shaun of the Dead)as Buck and director Chris Wedge as Scrat all return. This time they are joined by new cast members Jennifer Lopez (Made In Manhattan) as Shira, Peter Dinklage (Game of Thrones) as Captain Gutt, Nicki Minaj (New Year’s Eve) as Steffie, and Nick Frost (Shaun of the Dead, Paul), as Flynn.

Loaded with a treasure trove of pirate-themed special features, ICE AGE 4: CONTINENTAL DRIFT is the coolest animated Blu-ray this Xmas. Adding an extra layer of enjoyment, the Triple Play and Blu-ray 3D offers families the opportunity to watch the film in “PARTY WITH A PIRATE!” mode. Here, the Pirate SQUINT will guide viewers through the Blu-ray menus and even ride along for some added swashbuckling entertainment.

In addition, kids can get their groove on with the “Shimmy Shake Music Section,” a feature consisting of four fun-filled music videos to get you singing and dancing along with the herd. Adding to the ICE AGE fun is the Ice Age Village app, available for iPhone, iPod touch, iPad & Android smartphones and tablets. This mobile social game boasts over 30 million installs worldwide. Consumers purchasing the ICE AGE 4: CONTINENTAL DRIFT Triple Play or DVD will receive 10,000 free coins (in-game currency), an exclusive species and a chance to win an additional 10,000,000 free coins!


Blu-ray Disc Special Features

· Ultraviolet (UV) digital download of the feature
· Party with a Pirate (feature-length)
· Shimmy Shake Music Section
o Gutt’s Sing-Along Shanty Shimmy Shake
o “We Are” Extended Music Video
o “Chasing the Sun” by The Wanted
o The Sid Shuffle
· Through a Pirate’s Spyglass
o Voices Ahoy!
o Capturing the Crew!
· Whale of a Tale: Drifts, Rifts, Beasties and Myths
· Scrat Got Your Tongue?
· Granny and the Stink of the Sloths
· Missing Links (unfinished deleted scenes)
o Dr. Granny
o Shell Games
· Ice Age: The Story So Far
Standard DVD Special Features
· Shimmy Shake Music Section
o Gutt’s Sing-Along Shanty Shimmy Shake
o The Sid Shuffle
· Ice Age: The Story So Far

Emma in Bromley xx

1 in 3 dads do not read to their children

I'm always surprised by stats for literacy issues in the UK - like the one where I discovered lots of children in the UK don't even have any books at all. For our family, books are a big part of our lives every day. There's always books available for my little people to pick up whenever they want a story, and we also have story time in the day when "quiet time" is needed along with bedtime stories. It's not just me that reads to the kids either - their Daddy does too and so do grandparents, aunties and uncles - my kids are never far from books. Growing up my dad read to my sisters and I and often took us to buy new books instead of sweets! I'd assumed this was normal but after seeing the stats I see I was lucky in the story department!

Here's the official article ...

Reading is down to dads too!

New research from the National Literacy Trust shows that far fewer dads than mums encourage their children to read. In fact one in three fathers gives no reading encouragement to their children at all. What’s more, the statistics from the charity’s annual survey also highlight that one third of dads are never even seen with a book in their hand, compared with one in six mums.

There is a great case for dads to step up their involvement and make a positive impact on their children’s reading development, as the research also found that the children who are encouraged to read by their parents are achieving higher reading levels at school, and that those who see their parents reading think more positively about reading than those who don’t.
Richard Madeley is supporting the call by Words for Life, the charity’s campaign for parents, for dads to get involved with their children’s reading this Christmas when they may have extra time to spend with their families. Richard says:

“Dads can make a huge difference to their children’s reading development, and there are lots of easy ways for dads to get involved. They can read a chapter a night to their kids, read school books together, or even put up their feet and be seen reading a book or the newspaper themselves!

“I started reading to my children when they were just babies, putting on the different voices and having fun with the stories. My kids have grown up to be big book fans and I think this was partly down to me enjoying books with them from an early age. Have fun reading over Christmas dads!”

The research surveyed 21,000 children and young people across the UK. Some of the key findings are:

One in three (32.9%) dads are never seen reading by their children – versus one in seven (14.9%) mums
A worsening trend as two years ago, only one in four dads (24.9%) was never seen reading by their children
Far fewer dads than mums encourage their children to read (66.3% versus 82.6%)
Below average readers are four times more likely to say their dad doesn’t encourage them to read
One young person in seven has never been to a bookshop
The role of fathers in encouraging communication and literacy development in their babies and young children is set to become even more important under the new system of flexible parental leave being introduced in 2015. New mothers will be able to return to work two weeks after childbirth and share the rest of their maternity leave with their partner, so a dad’s input will become even more crucial.
Jonathan Douglas, Director of the National Literacy Trust, the charity behind Words for Life, said:

“It’s old fashioned to think that encouraging reading is just down to mothers. Children learn behaviours from both parents, and boys in particular benefit from male role models. With the forthcoming changes to parental leave, a father’s role in their child’s communication and literacy development is set to become of even greater importance.”

Words for Life is a National Literacy Trust campaign targeted at parents and carers to give them the tools, resources and confidence to give their child the best possible foundation in communication, reading and writing skills. One person in six in the UK cannot read, write or communicate as well as they need, and parental input, particularly in the early years, plays a key part in how well a child’s literacy skills develop.

Dads can find ideas and inspiration for simple activities they can do with their children this Christmas to help them develop better literacy skills at www.wordsforlife.org.uk.

Emma in Bromley x

Jingle bells music activity book

We were sent a copy of Jingle Bells sing and play for review -  this is an awesome music activity book. It contains the sheet music for Christmas songs and carols, along with the words. I used to be able to read music but found myself only recognising half the notes, it's something I'd like both my children to understand and learn and Blake (age 3) was intrigued by the layout and symbols when I was explaining what they mean. The book is filled with the most lovely bright and colourful illustrations and there are lots of stickers to use to complete two different scene pages within the book. The CD that comes with it contains all the songs and has actual singing on it too so it's not just percussion, incidentally Jingle Bells is Blake's favourite. It's a lovely little addition to the Christmas season and good value at an rrp of £7.95
https://www.facebook.com/musicforkidsuk

JINGLE BELLS
Festive fun for all the family, this seasonal songbook is beautifully illustrated and contains 18 popular Christmas songs and carols including Deck The Halls, The Holly And The Ivy, Silent Night, We Wish You A Merry Christmas and Jingle Bells. The simple melody line and chord symbols make this family music pack ideal for most instruments including Recorder, Guitar, Keyboard and Ukulele.
Product Details...
Jingle Bells
ISBN: 9781780385556 Order No: MFK100089 EAN: 5020679581810
SING and PLAY activity music books include:
• Beautifully Illustrated colourful 280x215mm music book • Fun, activity stickers to complete the Christmas scenes • Sing Along CD with 18 popular Christmas songs and carols • Clear and simple melody line and chord symbols • Seasonal family songbook suitable for either recorder, keyboard, guitar, ukulele and more. • Featured guitar and ukulele chord patterns included inside the book. • Ideal musical fun for all the family

RRP £7.95

Emma in Bromley x

Advent calendar books

It's no secret at all that I'm well and truly addicted to pinterest, and a while ago I saw an idea I loooved!

Someone had the ingenious idea of instead of having an advent calendar, you have a different book to unwrap and read each day.

Now, I love books and you've probably noticed a few of my blog posts have been book reviews, or about children's books and reading in general so naturally this idea sounded fab to me!

I showed it to hubby and he loved it too and I eagerly set about trying to see how I could do it .... You see, there's the minor issue of money - isn't it always about money! At an average of £7 a book times 24 books I'd be looking at about £170 for my "advent calendar" so not very realistic, I also looked at eBay or charity shops but even second hand at bargain prices, I'm still looking at a large sum of money and then also not necessarily the books on my hit list!

So, what books are on my list of 24 alternative advent calendar books? These are not in any particular order by the way.

1. The Pajama Elves - Hayden Edwards.

2. The Tiger who came to tea - Judith Kerr.

3. Owl Babies - Martin Waddell.

4. Belle and boo and the birthday surprise - Mandy Sutcliffe.

5. If I were an elephant - Anne wilkinson.

6. Orange pear apple bear - Emily gravett

7. Operation Alphabet (the ministry of letters) Al MacCuish.

8. This Moose Belongs To Me - Oliver Jeffers.

9. A Bit Lost - Chris Haughton.

10. The Heart and the Bottle - Oliver Jeffers.

11. Meg and Mog - Helen Nicoll.

12. Monkey and Robot, Cardboard Robot - Felix Hayes.

13. My First Gruffalo Touch and Feel - Julia Donaldson.

14. The Great Paper Caper - Oliver Jeffers.

15. Oh No, George! - Chris Haughton.

16. The Incredible Book Eating Boy (Pop up edition) - Oliver Jeffers.

17. Monkey and Me - Emily

18. The Adventures of Mrs Pepperpot - Alf Proysen.

19. Peepo - Allan Ahlberg.

20. Illustrated Stories from Dickens - Charles Dickens.

21. Moomin's Most Magical Pop Up Book - Tove Janssen. (my daughter's nickname is moomin)

22. The Lorax - Dr Seuss.

23. I Want My Hat Back - Jon Klassen.

24. Otto the Book Bear - Katie Cleminson.



My personal books of the moment? Has to be the Pop Up version of Lost and Found by Oliver Jeffers - we just love that book, I bought it for my son's birthday and we read it over and over again - it has the most amazing paper engineering I've ever seen. Or the usbourne wind up books - we have the train one - it's a big thick book which has stories and on 3 of the pages are train tracks with a wind up train to run along!

I like the look of the leapfrog tag reading system for Blake and also the new leap pad explorer 2 for stories. I'd quite like to see how he got on with them - there's a new tag junior for ages 2-4 as well as the tag system for ages 4-8 to help learn independent reading and discovery - the solar system adventure map looks amazing!


Emma in Bromley x

New Look

With a 1 year old and a 3 year old (and now being a 1 income household), I don't really get to go around the shops for clothes for myself so when I want or need new clothes it tends to be online shopping that I do.

I always find online shopping hard as you can't really get a sense of how something is going to fit or hang from a flat picture, so I absolutely paid attention when I received a press release featuring New Look's latest collections and video - not only do I believe a video helps me decide if I'll like the cut or fit of an outfit when shopping online, I love the dancing from flawless in these videos! 

If you watch the video's on the NewLook website - there is a little genius "click to buy" feature, as you are watching the video there is a little scrolling feature at the bottom which shoes you the pieces in that clip that you can click on to buy :-) perfect!

There's a gorgeous little gold sequin tuxedo jacket that I have my eye on in the shimmer and shine video and a pair of ankle boots with my name on in the baroque collection!
The onsies at the end are making me think of getting one each for myself and hubby - although as we are both in our 30's - I'm thinking more snuggling up on a cold evening than a fashion statement!


"FRONT ROW AND FABULOUS

There ain’t no party like a NEW LOOK
http://cdn-newlook.amplience.com/newlook/index.html
party. And there ain’t no party like the glimmering shimmering feast of fashion-fabulousness we’ve conjured up for Christmas 2012.

Now, thanks to NEWLOOK.COM everyone has a VIP front-row seat at the ultimate runway extravaganza! Framed by those cool dudes from Flawless (the urban dance troop that made such memorable appearances at this summer’s London Games and alongside Kylie at the Jubilee Concert), our models strut, sway and sashay this party season’s hottest fashion themes in three must-see mini-shows.

Gothic Glamour is a romantically dark fashion fable, told in gorgeous jewel-embellished chiffon and ultra-feminine lace. Baroque Star features sumptuous brocades and mesmerising metallics in sexy figure-hugging silhouettes. Shimmer& Shine works glamorous satin and sequins in sophisticated shades of nude, blush and rose-bronze.

Best of all, you can CLICK TO BUY every peplum-detail dress, every body-con sheath, and every sweet little sequinned jacket. Even the cute clutch bags and hot heels are a watch’n’shop option! NEWLOOK.COM ensures it couldn’t be easier to get into the party spirit. And NEW LOOK’s super-cute onesies (featured in the finale of each video) ensure the after-party is a fashion no-brainer too.

So, whether you’re looking for a going-out frock with knock-out wow-factor or something more snugglicious for a cosy night in, the fun place to find it is hot off the runway at NEWLOOK.COM.

Which look do you prefer? 

Baroque Star

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nfpMsWtOvL8&list=PLA17B4FEF36601022&index=2&feature=plcp

Shimmer and Shine

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X295QFskSbc&list=PLA17B4FEF36601022&index=1&feature=plpp_video

Here’s the link to the Gothic film

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FadY8Twz2KQ&feature=plcp "

Emma in Bromley xx

Pop party 10 review

An opportunity to review "Pop Party 10" came up and when I saw the track listings - I new I had to do it!

Both my little people loooove music and dancing (I proudly teach them all my moves! Blake at 3 can already moon walk!). One of Blake's current favourite songs is Psy Gangnam style which luckily is the opening track!

I expose my children to lots of music - from classical to rock we love it all!

This CD is targeted at age 6+ and is full of all the happy pop sounds of the year, you can't help but bop along and the kids just love this CD for dancing.

The CD also comes with a DVD packed full of music videos and behind the scenes clips. While Maegan (16months) does her own groovy moves - Blake age 3 loves to try and copy what he can see as well as mixing it up with his own special style so they both loved watching and copying the DVD too!

Pop Party 10 CD
http://zaphod.uk.vvhp.net/v-v/121017161448

The album is 1CD plus a bonus DVD featuring all of the best music videos, and some extra special behind the scenes footage!

Tracklisting
CD

01. Psy – Gangnam Style
02. Carly Rae Jepsen – Call Me Maybe
03. Maroon 5 – Payphone
04. Tulisa – Young
05. One Direction – What Makes You Beautiful
06. Justin Bieber – Boyfriend
07. Cheryl – Call My Name
08. Ne-Yo – Let Me Love You (Until You Learn To Love Yourself)
09. Jessie J – Domino
10. will.i.am Feat. Eva Simons – This Is Love
11. Fun Feat. Janelle Monáe – We Are Young
12. The Wanted – Chasing The Sun
13. Rihanna – Where Have You Been
14. Cover Drive – Twilight
15. Olly Murs – Dance With Me Tonight
16. Katy Perry – Part Of Me
17. Stooshe – Black Heart
18. Conor maynard – Cant say no
19. Alyssa ReidAlone – Again
20. Rizzle Kicks – Mama Do The Hump
21. JLS – Proud
22. The Saturdays – 30 Days

DVD

01. Psy – Gangnam Style
02. Tulisa – Young
03. One Direction – What Makes You Beautiful
04. Justin Bieber – Boyfriend
05. Cheryl – Call My Name
06. Jessie J – Domino
07. The Wanted – Chasing The Sun
08. Cover Drive – Twilight
09. Olly Murs – Dance With Me Tonight
10. Stooshe – Black Heart
11. Alyssa Reid – Alone Again
12. JLS – Proud
13. The Saturdays – 30 Days
14. Justin Bieber – Behind The Scenes “Boyfriend” Video
15. The Saturdays – 30 Days – Behind The Scenes [Music Video]

rrp £10.99
#PopParty10

Emma in Bromley x

Remembrance Day in Bromley 2012

During the morning of Sunday 11 November, Remembrance Day Services will be held throughout the Borough.

Listed below are those at which the council will be represented.

BROMLEY
The Mayor, Councillor Michael Turner, the Mayoress, Mrs Janet Turner, the Chief Executive, Bob Neill MP and the Representative Deputy Lieutenant, will attend the Service in Bromley Parish Church . Those attending the service are asked to arrive by 10.45am. After the service, the Civic party will proceed to the War Memorial for the wreath laying ceremony.

BECKENHAM WAR MEMORIAL
Councillor Stephen Wells will represent the Borough at this service. At 10.50am the re will be a service and wreath laying ceremony at Beckenham War Memorial in High Street Beckenham, lasting about 45 minutes and a parade will follow the service. Those attending this service are asked to arrive at the War Memorial by 10.30am.

BICKLEY
Councillor Catherine Rideout will represent the Borough, read a lesson and lay a wreath at St. George's Parish Church, Bickley at the service at 10.30 a.m.

BIGGIN HILL
Councillor Benington will represent the Borough at a service at St Mark's Church at 10.30am.

Councillor Norrie will represent the Borough at service at St George's Chapel at 10.30am. A wreath will be laid at St George's Chapel. At Noon the congregations from both services will meet at the War Memorial where wreaths will be laid.

BROMLEY COMMON and KESTON
Councillor Ruth Bennett will represent the Borough at the service at Holy Trinity Church at 10.00 a.m. followed by a wreath laying ceremony at the Memorial in the churchyard at 11.00am.

Councillor Stephen Carr will represent the Borough and read a lesson at Keston Parish Church at 10.30 a.m. followed by a wreath laying ceremony at the War Memorial in Heathfield Road .

CHELSFIELD and PRATTS BOTTOM
A councillor will represent the Borough and do a reading at the service at St Martin of Tours at 11.00 a.m. (to arrive at 10.45 am) during which a wreath will be laid.


CRAY VALLEY EAST
Councillor David McBride will represent the Borough at a service in St Mary Cray Parish Church at 10.00am. followed by a wreath laying ceremony at the Memorial at 11.00am.


CRAY VALLEY WEST
Councillor John Ince will represent the Borough at a service at St Barnabas Church at 10.30am.

CHISLEHURST
Councillor Eric Bosshard will lay the wreath at this Service. The service will be at St Nicholas Church at 9.30am and will be followed by a wreath laying ceremony at 11.00 a.m. at the War Memorial.


FARNBOROUGH and CROFTON
Councillor Charles Joel will lay the wreath and Councillor Tim Stevens will do the reading on behalf of the Borough. Those attending should assemble at the Lych Gate of St Giles the Abbot Church at 10.40am to join the procession down to the War Memorial.

Councillor Bob Evans will represent the Borough and lay a wreath at St Paul 's Church Crofton at 10.15am.

HAYES and CONEY HALL
Councillor Graham Arthur will represent the Borough. There will be a service at St Mary the Virgin at 10.30am followed by a short ceremony at the War Memorial in the church grounds.


MOTTINGHAM and CHISLEHURST NORTH
Councillor Charles Rideout will represent the Borough at the service at Mottingham War Memorial which commences at 10.45 a.m. in the car park of the Porcupine Public House, followed by a wreath laying ceremony at the Memorial.

Councillor Roger Charsley will represent the Borough at a service at St. Edward's Church, St. Keverne Road , which commences at 10.00 a.m.

ORPINGTON
The Deputy Mayor, Councillor Ian Payne will attend. There will be a wreath laying ceremony at Orpington War Memorial at 10.00am followed by a Service at All Saints Parish Church at 10.50am. Afterwards the re will be a further wreath laying ceremony at Canadian Corner.


PENGE and CATOR
Councillor Bance will represent the Borough. A service will be held at St John's Church at 10.30am followed by a wreath laying ceremony and service at the Memorial opposite the Church.

Councillor Fookes will represent the Borough at Holy Trinity Church , Lennard Road . The service will commence at 10.30 a.m. followed by a wreath laying ceremony at the Memorial.

PETTS WOOD and KNOLL
Councillor Tony Owen will represent the Borough and do a reading. There will be a Service at St Francis Church at 9.55 a.m. This will be followed by a wreath laying ceremony at Petts Wood Memorial, which is expected to take place at approximately 11.00 a.m.

PLAISTOW and SUNDRIDGE
Councillor Ellie Harmer will represent the Borough at a service at St Andrew's Church at 10.00am.

SHORTLANDS
Councillors Jefferys and Noad will lay the wreath and do the reading on behalf of the Borough. There will be a service at St Mary's Church at 10.15am. During the service the congregation will go to the War Memorial at approximately 10.45am to observe the silence and lay wreaths.

WEST WICKHAM
Councillor Jane Beckley will represent the Borough at the service and wreath laying ceremony at the War Memorial at Corkscrew Hill at 10.45am.

Normandy Veterans Association Planned Pilgrimage
The Normandy Veterans Association (South Eastern Branch) is trying to raise funds to help Veterans make their last pilgrimage to Normandy in 2014 to pay respect to the comrades they left behind on the battlefields. There are currently four Veterans living in Bromley who would like to attend this event and the Association is raising funds to enable them to relive some of the events that took place and they were part of.

If you would like to make a donation or would like some further information, please contact Mrs Frances Stone, Branch Secretary, tel. no. 020 8462 4591 or e-mail francesstone39@btinternet.com

The groupon review

I think we all like a bit of a bargain or deal and there's a plethora of discount shopping websites to chose from.

I'm a fan of a few other shopping websites already but was approached by groupon to review for them.

To do the review they offered me a £20 token and I was intrigued by the claim of deals on toys!
http://www.groupon.co.uk/vouchers/shopping/toys

This was a time sensitive review and I clung to my token eagerly awaiting a good toy deal but in the time period the only toy deals I came across were a climbing frame, trampoline or an Olympic 2012 edition train set - all good deals but much more than £20 or the sort of deals I had imagined.

In the end I decided to use groupon for a set of frying pans! I know, hardly toys right!

Groupon is tailored to suit cities and areas so the deals I get are for the London area.

Unlike other deal sites, groupon act like a third party which I hadn't realised at first. I bought my groupon for my ceramic coated frying pans and sat back and waited for delivery - only when I was checking some details on what I'd passed off as an order confirmation email did I realise that what I'd actually bought from groupon was a voucher code - after giving groupon my details to open an account, my card details to pay for my purchase, I then had to go to another website and open account with them as well and buy my items again using the groupon code to pay for them and then also pay an additional fee for postage ontop of what I'd already paid so that meant giving my card details to this other company too!
Blimey it was quite a cuffufle and a lot of repeating and sharing of my data!

The delivery certainly wasn't speedy but I can't complain as the pans really are great.

I think it's important to realise in advance that you are not actually buying your item from groupon and are only buying a voucher code so you will still have to go to another website to buy your purchase and you might have to pay extra for postage too although that would be declared in the groupon small print when you click the link to read more about the deal.

Groupon seemed to have a lot of really good offers for beauty treatments, theatre, photography courses and restaurant deals for my area as opposed to toys but each area gets different offers.

I've also since used groupon to buy a cupcake decorating kit which was a good offer but I'm not entirely keen on this third party system where I then also have to remember to go onto another website too especially when it comes to sharing my data and credit card details.

Good deals and bargain hunting but not very convenient and I didn't find the groupon website particularly easy to use to search for something specific - every time I searched for toys I seemed to go round in circles to a sign up to the newsletter page randomly for Northampton?!

As I've already used Groupon again out of my own pocket since using my review voucher - I would say "yes" I'll use it again if the deal was particularly extraordinary.

Emma in Bromley x

Bromley Christmas Parade and Father Christmas Santa Dash 2012

Bromley Christmas Parade and Santa Dash

2 December 2012

Christmas Parade and Santa Dash in Bromley town centre with entertainment.

Location: High Street and Market Square, Bromley

Time: 12:00 - 17:00

Cost: Free

Stars of the Peter Pan Pantomime will open the event at 12 noon followed by entertainment on stage in Market Square all day.

The Santa Dash will commence at 2pm followed by school Christmas carols at 3:30pm.

The traditional Christmas Parade will start at 4:30pm with Father Christmas, sleigh, two real reindeers and elves with the Christmas lights switch-on and fireworks finale at 5pm.

Registration for the Santa dash began on 1 November. http://www.mytimeactive.co.uk/leisure/events/santa-dash-2012/default.aspx

The Bromley Christmas celebration event is sponsored by local businesses and residents and the Mayor's Outer London Fund.

Emma in Bromley xx

Cherry Blossom Real Lambskin Insole review

Wow - I was lucky enough to be sent some real Lambskin insoles by Cherry Blossom Premium to review.

"the warming real Lambskin insole. 100% real, fleecy Lambskin. The woolly fleece keeps your feet cosy and warm. The texon - stiffened underside is breathable and prevents the insole from slipping inside the shoe. The seam band stops unravelling at the edge."

These are so snuggly and warm, they made my boots feel like slippers! And because the texon backing makes them non-slip it means you don't have to stick them down and you can put them in other shoes if needed - I swapped them from my winter boots to my wellies for bonfire night last night. My feet are always like blocks of ice in the winter - I have quite poor circulation! but these cozy warm sheepskin insoles kept my toes warm! Because lambskin in natural, these don't make your feet feel sweaty like synthetic sheepskin can.

Because they are real Lambskin they feel luxurious and special so either indulge for yourself or treat someone to something extra cosy for Christmas!

Cherry Blossom Premium Lambskin insoles come in a range of sizes for children, ladies and men.

Cherry Blossom Premium have some lovely shoe care items and their Valet box is stunning!

"Have your Christmas all wrapped up with Cherry Blossom

For the man that has everything this Christmas, Cherry Blossom, the iconic shoe care brand, have launched an elegant shoe care box for all his shoe care needs. This practical yet strylish gift will ensure that your man keeps his shoes in tip top condition for the new year ahead. Made out of elegant and durable pine, this deluxe valet box comes with two draws offering plenty of room to store all your shoe care accessories and polishes. Equipped with a footrest for effortless shoe polishing, your dad, brother or other half will never have an excuse not to polish his shoes again!

The deluxe valet box retails at £69.95 and is available nationwide. For stockists go to www.cherryblossom.co.uk"

Cherry Blossom is the original, and now, the only shoecare brand manufactured in Great Britain.

Emma in Bromley xx

Waterstones in Bromley Story Time Club 2012

I recently discovered that most Saturday mornings, Waterstones in The Glades holds a story time (saturday storytime club) in the children's department at 11.30am which is worth checking out!

Sir Scallywag and the Golden Underpants
Saturday, 3 November 2012, 11:30AM - 12:00PM
All aspiring Knights should come along and read Sir Scallywag and the Golden Underpants, in order to find out if his underpants really are Gold.


The Girl Who Loved Wellies
Saturday, 10 November 2012, 11:30AM - 12:00PM
Come along and listen to the story of Molly and her wellies. However much people try to persuade Molly to take them off, the more she wants to keep them on.

Secret Agent Splat
Saturday, 17 November 2012, 11:30AM - 12:00PM
Come and enjoy the brilliant Secret Agent Splat, as he gathers together all his courage to try and uncover the mystery of the missing ducks.


The New Jumper - The Hueys
Saturday, 24 November 2012, 11:30AM - 12:00PM
Lets find out whether the one knitted jumper can change all of the Hueys in the kingdom.

Santa is Coming to London
Saturday, 1 December 2012, 11:30AM - 12:00PM
Santa is coming to town and he's coming to Waterstones. Come and find out about Santa and his stay in London, with our Christmas party.

Emma in Bromley xx

Bonfire Night and Firework Displays Bromley 2012

Here's a rundown of what I know for Bonfire Night 2012!

If you are looking for inspiration for bonfire food and crafts, please take a look at my pinterest board
http://pinterest.com/beachpebble/bonfire-fireworks-and-guy-fawkes/

Parish Primary School
Fri 2nd Nov
Gates open at 5.30pm

This year Fireworks night will be bigger and better. To top the huge success of 2011, we will be selling more tickets than last year. As well as a professional fireworks display we will have a wide variety of light-up toys, hot food, candy floss and a bar.

Norman Park
Bonfire, funfair and firework display.
Sat 3rd Nov.
Gates open from 5pm
Fireworks from 8pm
http://normanpark.webeden.co.uk/

Beckenham Round Table Fireworks and Funfair
3 November 2012
A fun event for all ages. Firework display and children's fun fair.

Location: Croydon Road Recreation Ground, Croydon Road, Beckenham

Time: 18:00 - 22:00
Fireworks start 8.00pm (20/25 minutes)


Chislehurst Fireworks and Funfair
3 November 2012

Fireworks, bonfire, fun fair, sideshows, and much more!

Location: Chislehurst Recreation Ground,off Empress Drive Chislehurst BR7

Time: 18:00 - 21:00

A fun event for all ages at Chislehurst Recreation Ground .
Gates open 6.00pm - bonfire 7.00pm, firework display 7.30pm (20/25 mins)

Danson Park
3rd Nov

One of the biggest firework events in South east England, set in beautiful grounds across a tranquil lake in Danson Park.

Gates open at 6pm

Display starts at 8pm



Knockholt Fireworks Spectacular
3 November 2012

Knockholt bonfire night and fireworks.

Location: Junction of Main Road and Blueberry Lane, Knockholt

Time: 18:00 - 20:10

The annual Knockholt Firework Display is unique in that spectators miss the crush of the big town displays for an easily accessible fun evening of fireworks, food and hot drinks around the massive bonfire. And on a clear Autumn night Knockholt, being over 700ft above sea level, provides the fantastic backdrop of the London night skyline - the sky often alight with many of the capital's other firework displays.

Enter at the Junction of Main Road and Blueberry Lane, Knockholt. A traditional firework display gates 6pm, Bonfire lit at 6.45, fireworks begin at 7.30.


Crystal Palace Park - Fireworks Display and Family Funfair
5 November 2012

Firework display and funfair. A fun event for all ages.

Location: Crystal Palace Park, Anerley Hill, Bromley, SE19 2AA

Time: 18:00 - 22:00

Childrens fireworks display will start at 7.00pm. The main firework display will start at 8.30pm.

Admission: Pay on the gate. Gates open at 6pm.

For further information visit http://www.crystalpalacefireworks.co.uk/


Southborough Primary School Bonfire Night Fireworks 2012
Bromley, Kent
05 Nov 2012
Date: 5th November 2012
Place: Southborough Primary School, Southborough Lane, Bromley, Kent BR2 8AA
Time: Gates open 6pm, Fireworks 6.45pm (all times approx)
Prices: £5 (adv £4), pre-schoolers FREE
The 2012 Southborough Primary School Bonfire Night Fireworks, Bromley will be on 5th November.
In addition to the fireworks and bonfire that will light up the skies over Southborough Primary School, there will be plenty of entertainment and refreshments!
For a great evening of fireworks and fun for the family, head to the 2012 Southborough Primary School Bonfire Night Fireworks, Bromley!

Please let me know if I've missed any - particularly the primary schools!

Enjoy, have fun and stay safe!

Emma in Bromley x

George Spooky Scribes Short Story Challenge The Scary Spider Blake

I've, or rather Blake has accepted the George Spooky Scribes Short Story Challenge!
Asda's George team have challenged Blake to come up with a spooky Halloween story, to help Blake, they've sent him a scary spider costume, face paint and a crayola pen and pad set!
This is a competition, the blogger with the most comments taking part in the challenge will win a £50 asda voucher! If you like Blake's story, please leave a comment! Thank you x


The Scary Spider Blake

There's a scary spider called Blake, he has bright green and orange blood. He doesn't like beef burgers but loves to eat fingers, toes and chocolate eggs.

His cobwebs are as big as a house and catch rocketships on their way to the Moon, Jupiter or Mars.

He's so scary that on Halloween, he laughs in the face of creepy pumpkins, bats and witches and sings spider-man jingle bells.

He's a strong as a dinosaur, his favourite is the Stegosaurus and can climb the stairs in a blurry split second.

He isn't afraid of anything not even the plug hole which washed away his beastie of a friend - Incy Wincy.

And when it's sevenish o'clock he listens to a story about a bear hunt before hiding in your bed to give you a great big fright in the middle of the night!

Oh crumbling cucumbers!

The end.

About the author: Blake was born in June 2009 and lives in Bromley with his little sister Maegan, Daddy and Mummy. This is the first published story by Blake Preston Clement and when he grows up, he'd quite like to be Spiderman or a Stegosaurus.







Emma in Bromley x

Halloween Sweets from Swizzels Matlow

We were sent a huge bucket full of spooky sweets and lollipops from Swizzle Matlow from their special Halloween Collection. I was really surprised that the trick or treat mix tub was only £4 - it boasts over 80 sweeties so perfect for parties or trick or treaters and its full of classics such drumsticks and love hearts along with spooky specials such as pumpkin lollipops!

We also got to sample some spooky dip which was a strip of 4 frightening flavours of sherbert dip for £1 with tongue colour changing dippers!

Scooby doo gruesome gums gummy sweets are awesome and we really enjoyed the Scooby doo fiendish fizzies which are like love hearts but in Halloween colours and Scooby doo images - yikes!

Spooky Halloween sweets
British confectionery giant and king of the trick or treat season, Swizzels Matlow Ltd, is gearing up for the Halloween season with a range of ghoulish party delights.
This year’s terrifying treats include special treat bags and tubs of Swizzels Matlow’s perennial favourites, including Love Hearts, Drumsticks, Fizzers, New Refreshers and Fruity Pops. There are also big bags and tubs of treats for party goers or families to share, including Trick or Treat Lolly Mix, Monster Treats and Spooky Treat or Trick Mix.
Mega Drumsticks now have a black and orange wrapper, while Double Dip becomes Spooky Dip, with a blackcurrant flavour leaving tongues black!

Products are available in a host of national supermarkets. Sarah-Louise Heslop, marketing manager at Swizzels Matlow, said:
“This year’s Halloween range is perfect for any hellish Halloween parties. Our lollies, dips, sweets, tubs and packs are all adorned with creepy packaging – ideal presents for hungry trick or treaters. Don’t forget to stock up for fright night!”
Swizzels Matlow is the UK’s largest family-owned independent sugar confectionery business and one of the few confectionery companies to still manufacture sweets in the UK. The company makes a range of well known products including Love Hearts, New Refreshers, Drumstick Lollies, Rainbow Drops, Double Lollies and Fruity Pops.
www.swizzels-matlow.com

Emma in Bromley xx