Friday 31 May 2013

Prizes for Parents Competition Round Up 31.05.13

Originally started by the lovely Emma at Mellow Mummy, I'd like to bring to you Prizes for Parents. 

This is a weekly roundup of some of the best competitions available on the web, I'll keep my eyes peeled for the best prizes or freebies on offer for UK families, mums, parents and health and beauty fans. 

I'll post a selection here of the ones I spot or if you have a competition you'd like me to include, just tweet me the link @beachpebble, email me or leave a comment below with the details and closing date. 

#prizesforparents
Prize must be open to UK winners.
Published every Friday.

• Win tickets for Lollibop http://www.theminimesandme.com/2013/05/lollibop-line-up.html
Entry by rafflecopter, Closes 27.06.13

• Win little grippers socks http://mamageek.co.uk/2013/05/24/giveaway-little-grippers-baby-socks-gift-box/
Entry by rafflecopter closes 16.06.13

• Win Mister Maker vol 5 DVD http://mamageek.co.uk/2013/05/27/giveaway-mister-maker-watch-make-vol-5-dvd/
Entry by rafflecopter. Closes 09.06.13

• Win 1 of 3 Apivita face scrub sets. http://www.beautyswot.com/2013/05/win-with-apivita-face-masks-face-scrubs.html
Entry by blog comment closes 02.06.13

• Win 1 of 2 online fertility tests http://www.vevivos.com/2013/05/29/title-fertilomat-giveaway/
Entry by rafflecopter, closes 07.06.13

• Win a pair of hotter shoes http://madhousefamilyreviews.blogspot.co.uk/2013/05/giveaway-291-win-pair-of-hotter-shoes.html
Entry by rafflecopter closes 14.06.13

• Win a natures purest gift bundle of 3 toys http://gammonandchips.com/2013/05/29/win-a-bundle-of-ethical-soft-toys-from-natures-purest/
Entry by rafflecopter, closes on 10.06.13

• Win a Buddy Buggy Lock http://mumofthreeboys.com/my-buggy-buddy-lock-giveaway/
Entry by following and commenting on the blog. Closes 08.06.13

• Win a pair of father's day cufflinks http://mumofaprematurebaby.blogspot.co.uk/2013/05/la-jewellery-fathers-day-competition.html?
Entry by rafflecopter closes 09.06.13

• Win A Maille BBQ Hamper worth £70 http://fussfreeflavours.com/2013/05/giveaway-maille-mustard-bbq-hamper-worth-70/ entry by rafflecopter, closes 01.07.13

Enter by rafflecopter, closes 10.06.13

• Win a Chewits Hamper http://www.theminimesandme.com/2013/05/chewits-chewie-gum-review-and-giveaway.html Entry by Rafflecopter, closes 25.06.13

• Win a Sodastream Fizz http://www.fabfortymum.co.uk/me/win-blogaversary-prizes/win-sodastream-fizz/ Entry by Rafflecopter, Closes 16.06.13

• Win a Climbing Frame http://www.lifewithliv.co.uk/2013/05/win-little-tikes-junior-activity-gym.html Enter by Rafflecopter closes 06.06.13

• Win £160 of Pixi Beauty products http://www.pixibeauty.co.uk/special-offers/contest online entry form closes 14.06.13

• Win 1 of 3 pairs of Cheeky Shoes http://www.mellowmummy.co.uk/2013/05/win-cheeky-shoes.html entry by newsletter sign up and blog comment. Closes 02.06.13

• Win 1 of 5 £25 Photoworld vouchers http://www.mansellsonthemove.blogspot.co.uk/2013/05/the-wonder-of-acrylic-wall-art-and.html entry by rafflecopter closes 25.06.13

• Win a Nuby bath toy bundle worth £30 http://www.snowingindoors.com/index.php/2013/nuby-bath-toy-competition/ entry by rafflecopter closes 03.06.13

• Win a Prima Princessa Sleeping Beauty DVD http://www.theminimesandme.com/2013/05/prima-princessa-sleeping-beauty-dvd.html entry by rafflecopter closes 19.06.13

• Win a HOTBIN compost bin http://www.myakka.co.uk/competition/hotbin_competition entry by answering a question an online submitting a form. Closes 09.06.13

• Win 1 of 10 sense organics skincare sets http://agreenerlifeforus.com/meet-jill-barker-sense-organics/ entry by rafflecopter, closes 03.06.13

• Win a Corolle Doll http://www.mellowmummy.co.uk/2013/05/wincorollepetalina.html?
Entry by blog comment. Closes 07.06.13

• Win a lazy daisy whisky bottle glass clock http://thediaryofajewellerylover.blogspot.co.uk/2013/05/fathers-day-giveaway-lazy-daisy-glass.html entry by rafflecopter closes 08.06.13

• Win 1 of 3 La La oopsies DVD and Doll. http://madhousefamilyreviews.blogspot.co.uk/2013/05/giveaway-289-win-3-lala-oopsies-sew.html entry by rafflecopter closes 02.06.13

• Win baking mad goodies http://onedad3girls.com/2013/05/are-you-baking-mad/ entry by rafflecopter closes 07.06.13

• Win a lala loopsy doll and DVD set http://allbabyadvice-blog.com/index.php/2013/05/win-lala-oopsies-a-sew-magical-tale-the-movie-a-lalaloopsy-doll/ entry by rafflecopter closes on 16.06.13

• Win play-doh sets http://onedad3girls.com/2013/05/play-doh-competition/ entry by rafflecopter closes 01.06.13

• Win a Gotz Hannah doll http://allbabyadvice-blog.com/index.php/2013/05/win-a-gotz-hannah-doll-from-petalina/ closes 01.06.13 entry by blog comment.

Good Luck Everyone!

Emma in Bromley xx
(@beachpebble)



Thursday 30 May 2013

Cloudbabies Toys Review

Cloudbabies toy review, cloud babies with Maegan Darcie ClementMeg enjoys the Cloudbabies, which has been on our screens for a year. There's something calming about its soundtrack, colours and big beaming happy faces!
We were sent two of the latest Cloudbabies toys to review.

Maegan really liked the size of the figure and skyhorsey twin pack as they were comparable to some of her other play sets so she could really let her imagination rule in her little role play games! The size also meant that this pair can easily pop into my handbag or the nappy bag for when we are on the go! The colours and attention to detail is fab, the quality is excellent and this set gets top marks for durability - even after a month of being sucked and chewed by a teething toddler, played with in the garden and taken just about everywhere - this set still looks as new! Easy to clean without any little gaps or grooves for stuff to get stuck in too!

The other toy we received was the pull along Skydonk featuring Bobo White. The wheels aren't quite perfectly round which makes Bobo White gently bounce up and down as if he is horse riding which I thought was a lovely touch! You can move his arms and head to change his pose and move the Skydonk's ears. The pull along cord is tied through a loop so you can remove it and use this as a push along you too. The Skydonk's colours are lovely and bright and both my children (aged 1 and 3) loved playing with this equally. 

I thought both toys were great value for money and would recommend to a friend. We've actually bought one of the figure and skyhorse twin packs as a gift for a birthday party we are going to as at £6, its perfect! 

From Vivid Toys and Games

http://www.vividtoysandgames.co.uk/index.php/toys/pre-school/cloudbabies

Press Release: 
Horsey-ing around with the
Cloudbabies!
Who looks after the sky? The Cloudbabies do! Whatever the weather, every morning they jump on their Skyhorsies and begin their busy day’s work looking after the sky and their Sky Friends: Sun, Moon, Rainbow, Fuffa Cloud and Little Star.

Now you can re-enact the Cloudbabies adventures high in the sky, up, up in the clouds with the new collectable Figure and Horsey Assortment twin packs (RRP £5.99) each featuring one of the Cloudbabies and their corresponding Skyhorsey.
Watch and sing along with the Cloudbabies and Bobo White as they have fun with their sky friends on the new Musical TV (RRP £9.99)! Accompanied by the Cloudbabies theme tune, pre-schoolers aged 12m+ will be spellbound as each rotating page reveals full colour adventures of the cloudb-bouncing friends.
Skydonk and Bobo White are on a roll with the new Pull Along Skydonk (RRP £11.99)! Tipping back and forth as they trundle along, children aged 18m+ can have fun moving Bobo White’s head and arms into position as he rides off in search of mischief with his favourite friend!

Emma in Bromley x
(@beachpebble) 

* I have not received any payment for this review. The toys were provided for the sole purpose of physically being able to carry out an honest review. All thoughts, photos and link choices are my own.


Tuesday 28 May 2013

How to stop your bottom from talking

I'd really like to shower alone, but everyday I end up showering to an audience. Such is the joy of motherhood with two small people.

I used to be able to get Blake (3) to stay on the sofa watching Peppa Pig while I kept Meg with me in the bathroom (Our bathroom is rather bijou and there isn't room for 3!) and it worked for a time - as long as I didn't go past the few minutes that Peppa is on for (certainly not a 20 min shower that the pre-mum me would take!). 

But lately, the second I step into the shower, there's a knock at the door (if I'm lucky!) and little man barges into the bathroom! I have to duck down super quick so people don't see me starkers through the landing window!

Sometimes he wants to get into the shower too, sometimes he's just happy to squash his little sister but often he likes to sit on the loo and chat (he's a real chatterbox with a crazy imagination!) 

Sometimes what he has to say makes absolutely no sense at all and I can't help but laugh until I have tears rolling down my cheeks, such as this morning's observation....

"Mummy, point your bottom upwards so it can't talk anymore"

Emma in Bromley 
(@beachpebble)

Saturday 25 May 2013

Curious George Swings into Spring DVD review

Curious George Swings into Spring DVD


Don't we all love a cheeky little monkey! My two little ones really enjoyed watching Curious George Swings into Spring - I was surprised that Meg (nearly 2) asked for this film on a lot ... It's usually Blake (nearly 4) who puts the requests in!

I found it was one of those precious DVD's that I could pop on and know it would keep both little people entertained. There's lots to satisfy Blake's curiosity - he loves learning about spring - he asks a lot of questions!

There's a song in the film dedicated to sausage dogs which Meg bops along to and giggles away at the scene with George in a hot air balloon!

We love Curious George because he's very loveable and the DVD is full of adventure, entertainment, curiosities, songs and enjoyable story lines!

This DVD has just been released on 20th May just in time for half term!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wpBEYr-DP4Y











Press release:

Curious George Swings into Spring
A high-flying springtime adventure!
DVD Released by Universal Pictures (UK) Ltd • ReleaseDate: 20th May 2013
You know it must be springtime if a curious monkey named George is dancing on the balcony at sunrise! The Man with the Yellow Hat is sure that George has spring fever so he takes George to the park to experience all the wonders of spring…
Spring has sprung and the world’s favourite monkey returns – as curious as ever – in this high-flying, full-length feature. George and his best friend, Hundley, explore all the wonders of the season together – including blooming flowers, baby animals and canoe rides. But when Hundley loses his way and gets lost in the countryside, George takes to the skies in a hot air balloon to find his pal, in a wild adventure that ends with a very fun surprise! Finally, to George’s delight, Hundley now has spring fever, too!

Gently paced, educational and entertaining, Curious George Swings into Spring is ideal is pre-schoolers.

Available from ALL MAJOR RETAILERS, priced £6.99(RRP)

Emma in Bromley xx

(@beachpebble)




* I received a check disc copy DVD so that I was able to review it. I've not received any payment or compensation for this review.

Lollibop 2013 Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park London 16 to 18 August

We went to Lollibop 2012 (read about it here) and had the most amazing day - I'm really hoping to go again and I'd fully recommend it to all my readers.

This year, Lollibop has a new venue and the line up is even more exciting than last year, I can't wait to see my little ones faces when they see the Mr Men! Poppy Cat was a big hit with my little boy last year but I think this year, Meg will be most excited as she's really become a fan in the last few months! Same for Cloud Babies!  Blake would be very giddy with Shaun the Sheep performances and last year we didn't quite make Optimus Prime! There's so much to look forward to it would be an awesome day out!

In my review last year, I'd said I'd like to do two days instead of one and this line up confirms that!  

Press Release: LOLLIBOP SET TO ROCK QUEEN ELIZABETH OLYMPIC PARK THIS SUMMER

LolliBop, The Big Bash for Little People, is returning for 2013 to Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, London, with an incredible line-up designed to delight mini festivalgoers.

Joining some of the hottest names in kids’ entertainment, as well as hundreds of activities, workshops and interactive demos, are the Mr. Men and Little Miss Village Green Event andShaun the Sheep’s Championsheeps LIVE!
The ever-popular Mr. Men will be hosting a fun maypole activity area and favourite characters, such as Mr. Bump, Mr. Tickle and Little Miss Sunshine, will be meeting and greeting fans at the Mr. Men and Little Miss reading hubs.

Shaun the Sheep will be personally on hand at the Championsheeps with sheepy shenanigans, including Shirley’s Pie-athalon, the Naughty Pig’s Sack Race and Get Fit with the Flock. Kids and parents are ‘wool-come’ to get involved!

Other big names confirmed so far, include:
-      LolliBop favourites Dick and Dom return with their special mix of madcap games, songs, jokes and a foam pie or two…
-      Peppa Pig will be at the festival all weekend, meeting and greeting all her little fans
-       Sid Sloane and Andy Day will be hosting their very own Big Birthday Bash and everyone is invited! Expect lots of energetic songs and silliness and plenty of audience participation

-       Watch and learn how to ‘Copy Poppy’ withPoppy Cat on the Lolli Live stage
-      Straight from Nickelodeon to the Lolli Live Stage, The Go! Go! Go! Show are bringing brand new pop songs, catchy, easy-to-learn dance moves and loads of laughs
-       Sing and dance along with the adorableCloudbabies mini show

-       Older LolliBoppers will love The Diary of a Wimpy Kid activity, which include exclusive clips of the author Jeff Kinney talking about the books and a master class showing how he draws the characters. There’s also a Wimp Wars quiz

-       Experience the life-size Transformer Optimus Prime Truck, along with the Transformers Station; showcasing the new Beast Hunters toys, viewings of the cartoon series Transformers Prime and free green screen pictures

-       Witness the amazing wildlife showcase withNational Geographic Kids Animal Man
-       Laugh along with hilarious antics from the amazing 8ft Titan the Robot 
Returning LolliBoppers will also see old favourites mixed with new attractions for 2013, including:

LolliBop Live – Popular CBeebies presenter Alex Winters is comparing the live stage which plays host to some of the biggest names in kids entertainment, with live music and performances from stars of stage and screen.

Lollipalladiam - is a live theatre tent showcasing performances from pioneering and internationally renowned companies and artists. This year it features Spooked, the critically acclaimed Broken Rose Performing Arts first show for children – a hilarious and spectacular blend of dance, theatre and spoken word featuring skeletons Molly, Jinny and Charlie.

Science Zone - Make a rocket, hold a dry ice cube, or get messy with gooey slime in the LolliBop lab - brimming with exploding experiments for pint sized guests to try! London’s Science Museum will also be attending with live demonstrations and interactive activities.

Run wild and have fun in the LolliSportsarea.  With activities including retro favourites like swingball, hula-hoop and frisbee to football tournaments and sports day style races.

3ft and under is also making a comeback but this time is it within the brand new Itsy Bitsy Zone.  Activities for babies and toddlers will include soft play, baby massage, storytelling, mini discos and much more

The Lolli Promenade  – Situated on the River Lea! We’re very lucky to have a real river running through our new home, so why not relax and enjoy an ice lolly at the Lolli Promenade which also features beach hut crafts and bandstands.

Discovery Zone - will host a number of educational, interactive and hands on activities where kids can learn a new skill like beatboxing in one of the many workshops.

Lolli Stops – Enjoy crafts from puppet making, and customised fashion workshops, to balloon modelling, and graffiti painting, there is a something to make and do around every corner.

The Meadows  - A perfect spot to chill out, enjoy your lunch and watch our special street performers.

There is also a wide selection of food and drink stalls at LolliBop. Extensive covered buggy parks, baby changing and breast-feeding areas are also available.

For more tickets and more information:http://www.lollibopfestival.co.uk 


Emma in Bromley xx
(@beachpebble) 

Friday 24 May 2013

Prizes for Parents Competition Round Up 24.05.13


Originally started by the lovely Emma at Mellow Mummy, I'd like to bring to you Prizes for Parents.

This is a weekly roundup of some of the best competitions available on the web, I'll keep my eyes peeled for the best prizes or freebies on offer for UK families, mums, parents and health and beauty fans.

I'll post a selection here of the ones I spot or if you have a competition you'd like me to include, just tweet me the link @beachpebble, email me or leave a comment below with the details and closing date.

#prizesforparents
Prize must be open to UK winners.
Published every Friday.


• Win The Shining Girls by Lauren Beukes http://emmainbromley.blogspot.co.uk/2013/05/the-shining-girls-by-lauren-beukes.html? Entry by blog comment closes on 27.05.13

• Win £160 of Pixi Beauty products http://www.pixibeauty.co.uk/special-offers/contest online entry form closes 14.06.13

• Win £80 Zalando voucher http://www.familyfourfun.co.uk/2013/05/80-zalando-voucher-giveaway.html entry by rafflecopter closes 31.05.13

• Win 1 of 3 pairs of Cheeky Shoes http://www.mellowmummy.co.uk/2013/05/win-cheeky-shoes.html entry by newsletter sign up and blog comment. Closes 02.06.13

• Win a £50 Amoralia voucher http://www.familyfourfun.co.uk/2013/05/50-amoralia-gift-voucher.html Entry by rafflecopter closes 31.05.13

• Win Appletters and Pairs in Pears games http://www.familyfourfun.co.uk/2013/05/win-appletters-pairsinpears-games-from.html entry by rafflecopter closes 31.05.13

• Win 1 of 5 £25 Photoworld vouchers http://www.mansellsonthemove.blogspot.co.uk/2013/05/the-wonder-of-acrylic-wall-art-and.html entry by rafflecopter closes 25.06.13

• Win a Nuby bath toy bundle worth £30 http://www.snowingindoors.com/index.php/2013/nuby-bath-toy-competition/ entry by rafflecopter closes 03.06.13

• Win spitter spatter clothes http://rightfromthestart.wordpress.com/2013/05/18/spitter-spatter-stain-free-anti-bacterial-childrens-clothing-giveaway/

• Win a Prima Princessa Sleeping Beauty DVD http://www.theminimesandme.com/2013/05/prima-princessa-sleeping-beauty-dvd.html entry by rafflecopter closes 19.06.13

• Win a HOTBIN compost bin http://www.myakka.co.uk/competition/hotbin_competition entry by answering a question an online submitting a form. Closes 09.06.13

• Win 1 of 10 sense organics skincare sets http://agreenerlifeforus.com/meet-jill-barker-sense-organics/ entry by rafflecopter, closes 03.06.13

• Win a bouquet of beautiful flowers http://www.myakka.co.uk/competition/common_farm_flowers entry by answering a question online form closes 31.05.13

• Win a Corolle Doll http://www.mellowmummy.co.uk/2013/05/wincorollepetalina.html?
Entry by blog comment. Closes 07.06.13

• Win a lazy daisy whisky bottle glass clock http://thediaryofajewellerylover.blogspot.co.uk/2013/05/fathers-day-giveaway-lazy-daisy-glass.html entry by rafflecopter closes 08.06.13

• Win a Ninjini Skylanders Figure http://www.familyfourfun.co.uk/2013/05/say-hello-to-ninjini-skylanders-giveaway.html entry by rafflecopter closes 31.05.13

• Win Dr Oetker baking products http://www.familyfourfun.co.uk/2013/05/dr-oetker-baking-products-giveaway.html entry by rafflecopter - closes 31.05.13

• Win a £20 Zulily Voucher http://www.familyfourfun.co.uk/2013/05/20-zulily-voucher-giveaway.html enter by rafflecopter closes 31.05.13

• Win 1 of 3 pairs of Cheeky Shoes http://www.familyfourfun.co.uk/2013/05/giveaway-3-pairs-of-cheekyshoes.html entry by rafflecopter closes 31.05.13

• Win 1 of 3 La La oopsies DVD and Doll. http://madhousefamilyreviews.blogspot.co.uk/2013/05/giveaway-289-win-3-lala-oopsies-sew.html entry by rafflecopter closes 02.06.13

• Win Alphablocks DVD http://madhousefamilyreviews.blogspot.co.uk/2013/05/giveaway-287-win-3-alphablocks-phonics.html entry by Rafflecopter closes 28.05.13

• Win baking mad goodies http://onedad3girls.com/2013/05/are-you-baking-mad/ entry by rafflecopter closes 07.06.13

• Win a lala loopsy doll and DVD set http://allbabyadvice-blog.com/index.php/2013/05/win-lala-oopsies-a-sew-magical-tale-the-movie-a-lalaloopsy-doll/ entry by rafflecopter closes on 16.06.13

• Win play-doh sets http://onedad3girls.com/2013/05/play-doh-competition/ entry by rafflecopter closes 01.06.13

• Win a set of 3 cookbooks (the Archers, Downton Abbey and Teatime Treats)
http://www.recipesfromanormalmum.com/2013/03/06/giveaway-5-downton-abbey-archers-cookbooks/ Entry by rafflecopter Closes 31.05.13

• Win a Gotz Hannah doll http://allbabyadvice-blog.com/index.php/2013/05/win-a-gotz-hannah-doll-from-petalina/ closes 01.06.13 entry by blog comment.

• Win a silver cottage pendant http://a.pgtb.me/0tmCr0 entry by liking their Facebook page. Closes 31.05.13

• Win Ben Sherman Eau de toilette http://thediaryofajewellerylover.blogspot.co.uk/2013/05/perfume-click-giveaway-ends-310513.html entry by rafflecopter. Closes 31.05.13

• Win a £100 Voucher, Cow Toy and Wallet.http://zulilyuk.tumblr.com/post/49440672586/zulily-cuties-may-instagram-competition entry by Instagram closes 31.05.13

• Win a Kiddy evolution pro car seat
http://www.mellowmummy.co.uk/2013/05/kiddyevolutionpro.html entry by 3 steps highlighted on the blog post closes 31.05.13

• Win £150 amazon vouchers and runner up prizes http://www.mumsnet.com/Talk/sponsored_discussions/1741619-Talk-to-Roosterbank-com-about-pocket-money-great-prizes-to-be-won prize draw entry by online discussion. Closes 30.05.13

• Win an Oxo feeding and weaning set http://www.amummytoo.co.uk/2013/04/win-oxo-feeding-and-weaning-set/ enter by tweet and blog comment closes 31.05.13

• Win cake for two months! http://www.amummytoo.co.uk/2013/04/win-a-gorgeous-slice-of-cake-delivered-to-your-door-every-week-for-2-months enter by tweet and blog comment. Closes 31.05.13


Good Luck everyone!

Emma in Bromley x

(@beachpebble)

Lewisham Speech Therapy for Children

Meg and Humf I CAN mad Chatters  tea  party challengeIt's been a year since the nursery nurse supporting our local health visitor team told me that Blake had a problem with his speech clarity - I'd thought she was wrong as Blake has always been a chatterbox and his first word at 8 months wasn't 1 but 2 words! 


However, I took him along to a drop in session at Downham  leisure centre on Moorside Road - we fall on the border between Bromley and lewisham. 
The wait to see a therapist was only a few mins and the initial assessment showed he did have a clarity issue on some sounds such as "s" but this wasn't uncommon for a 2 year old. He was put on a list for a full assessment.

A little over 6 months later, he had a full assessment, again with only a few mins to wait to be seen) which showed that he was still having the issues with clarity - although he has an impressive volcabulary! The therapist said she would refer Blake to ENT to check there isn't an obstruction or deformity and she would pop him into a therapy group.

So, I get a call ... finally - a whole year after Blake was first seen. A place has come up in a group - starts in less than a week's time and is mid morning on his only full preschool day. I don't want Blake to forego his only full day at preschool for his last few weeks with his friends, I don't drive so its not like I can take him later - and I don't have alternative childcare for Meg at such incredibly short notice - not easy to arrange either! What if I'd been a working mum too!  I explained that day and time isn't suitable and I'm told the only other time is in September when he should be starting school - this session would also be mid morning on a week day. So there isn't actually a suitable, realistic or achievable session available for my child, there's no choice and no alternative at all. It's taken a year to reach absolutely nothing at all, no help at all and a dead end.

Lewisham takes over a year to actually get round to organising something ... Which is then offered to the parent at less than a week to organise and also offer child therapy sessions at the most inconsiderate and ridiculous time without any alternative choice at all. The drop in sessions for an initial consultant is weekly, doesn't have any waiting times or used to its maximum capacity - When I'd been to the drop ins before I was worried about how long I'd need to wait to be seen (it was only a matter of minutes) the receptionist at the centre told me some weeks nobody turns up at all and usually its only 1 person on the weeks that someone does!

... We are still waiting for the ENT referral that the therapist was organising for us half a year ago.

To wait a year might not be a long time for most lewisham NHS services but in the lifetime of a 3 year old and their speech development - I'd say that waiting time is significant! Would you wait a third to a quarter of your lifetime for an appointment?  The service overall is clearly poorly managed and badly organised. 

I've had far more useful, quick and instant advice from the "I CAN" charity (great resources on their website) who we met with at their Mad Chatter's Tea Party. The Lewisham service has just been an upsetting waste of time. To go through this for a whole year without any help from Lewisham only to reach a dead end is just heart breaking and the woman I spoke to on the phone couldn't care less  or offer any advice- just passes the blame on to others in her team, nice.

Emma in Bromley x
(@beachpebble)

Update - Since this post, I had a follow up phone call promising me sessions over the summer, an ENT appointment we've waited for since february finally scheduled for August.... and another phone call today retracting that promise for sessions, but with a hint that there could possibly maybe  be something in September ... during the only week of the year that I just can't commit too or maybe something patchy with the odd session here and there but obviously I would have to find alternative childcare at short notice in the summer holidays when everyone else gets to go away because Blake's younger sister isn't welcome.
At this point, I well and truly give up with this pathetically awful service.



Tuesday 21 May 2013

My 4th blogoversary

Today is my 4th Blogoversary!

Emma in Bromley, Emma ClementI think four years if blogging deserves a cocktail, so tonight I'm celebrating! ... I'll be hugging a bucket... Not for over indulging in a naughty drink but because my two little people decided to share their tummy bug with me!

My first blog post was about local maternity clothes and was published just before my first baby was born!

Over the past 4 years I've really enjoyed blogging and hope to keep it up for many more years to come, although this past year has seen a few rocky patches where I almost threw the towel in!

I've started a 2nd blog too - Meal Planning Mummy but if I'm honest, it's not going to truly take off until Meg is in preschool! I just don't have as much time as I'd like to have for writing blog posts!

Hope you still enjoy reading :)

Emma in Bromley xx

Saturday 18 May 2013

Prizes for Parents competition round up 17.05.13

Originally started by the lovely Emma at Mellow Mummy, I'd like to bring to you Prizes for Parents. 

This is a weekly roundup of some of the best competitions available on the web, I'll keep my eyes peeled for the best prizes or freebies on offer for UK families, mums, parents and health and beauty fans. 

I'll post a selection here of the ones I spot or if you have a competition you'd like me to include, just tweet me the link @beachpebble, email me or leave a comment below with the details and closing date. 

#prizesforparents
Prize must be open to UK winners.
Published every Friday. - except for this week, sorry for the slight delay - both my little people have tummy bugs!

• Win The Shining Girls by Lauren Beukes http://emmainbromley.blogspot.co.uk/2013/05/the-shining-girls-by-lauren-beukes.html? Entry by blog comment closes on 27.05.13
  

• Win baking mad goodies http://onedad3girls.com/2013/05/are-you-baking-mad/ entry by rafflecopter closes 07.06.13


• Win play-doh sets http://onedad3girls.com/2013/05/play-doh-competition/ entry by rafflecopter closes 01.06.13

• Win Star Wars book - Veda's little princess http://kidsblogclub.com/giveaway-win-a-star-wars-childrens-book/ entry by blog comment. Closes 21.05.13

•Win a pair of personalised sheepskin booties http://allbabyadvice-blog.com/index.php/2013/04/win-a-pair-of-personalised-my-1st-years-luxurious-sheepskin-booties/ Closes 23.05.13 entry by rafflecopter.

• Win a set of 3 cookbooks (the Archers, Downton Abbey and Teatime Treats)
http://www.recipesfromanormalmum.com/2013/03/06/giveaway-5-downton-abbey-archers-cookbooks/ Entry by rafflecopter Closes 31.05.13


• Win a Gotz Hannah doll http://allbabyadvice-blog.com/index.php/2013/05/win-a-gotz-hannah-doll-from-petalina/ closes 01.06.13 entry by blog comment.

• Win a Thorpe Park Family Passhttp://www.catsyellowdays.com/2013/04/30/saving-on-your-trip-to-thorpe-park-and-win-tickets-for-a-family-of-4/ Closes 20.05.13 entry by rafflecopter

• Win a silver cottage pendant http://a.pgtb.me/0tmCr0 entry by liking their Facebook page. Closes 31.05.13

• Win Ben Sherman Eau de toilette http://thediaryofajewellerylover.blogspot.co.uk/2013/05/perfume-click-giveaway-ends-310513.html entry by rafflecopter. Closes 31.05.13


• Win a £100 Voucher, Cow Toy and Wallet.http://zulilyuk.tumblr.com/post/49440672586/zulily-cuties-may-instagram-competition entry by Instagram closes 31.05.13

• Win Sooty children's party DVD http://mamageek.co.uk/2013/05/07/entry by rafflecopter closes  19.05.13

• Win a Roku streaming playerhttp://thediaryofajewellerylover.blogspot.co.uk/2013/04/win-streaming-player-from-roku-ends.html closes 24.05.13 entry by rafflecopter

•Win wow toys roll it rileyhttp://www.lovefrommummy.co.uk/2013/05/win-wow-toys-roll-it-riley.html entry by rafflecopter closes 21.05.13

• Win a brother max bath toy gift set.http://www.lovefrommummy.co.uk/2013/05/win-brother-max-3-bath-toys-gift-set.html enter by rafflecopter, closes 23.05.13

• Win a Little Dish goody bag.

• Win a Yoomi feeding system.

• Win a Kiddy evolution pro car seat
http://www.mellowmummy.co.uk/2013/05/kiddyevolutionpro.html entry by 3 steps highlighted on the blog post closes 31.05.13

• Win a giokit colour in t-shirt http://www.mellowmummy.co.uk/2013/05/win-giokit-colour-in-t-shirt-from.html entry by blog comment. Closes 20.05.13

• Win £150 amazon vouchers and runner up prizes http://www.mumsnet.com/Talk/sponsored_discussions/1741619-Talk-to-Roosterbank-com-about-pocket-money-great-prizes-to-be-won prize draw entry by online discussion. Closes 30.05.13 

• Win an Oxo feeding and weaning set http://www.amummytoo.co.uk/2013/04/win-oxo-feeding-and-weaning-set/ enter by tweet and blog comment closes 31.05.13

• Win cake for two months! http://www.amummytoo.co.uk/2013/04/win-a-gorgeous-slice-of-cake-delivered-to-your-door-every-week-for-2-months enter by tweet and blog comment. Closes 31.05.13

• Win a colour your own tee http://madhousefamilyreviews.blogspot.co.uk/2013/05/giveaway-284-win-colour-your-own-t.html enter by rafflecopter closes 22.05.13

Good Luck everyone!
Emma in Bromley x

(@beachpebble)


Thursday 16 May 2013

Happy Birthday Miffy!

blake and meg clement in Miffy tabardIn our house, we love Miffy! I can remember reading Miffy books when I was little and I'm happy my children also enjoy Miffy!

Next month I'll be hosting a joint birthday party for my little people - but between their birthdays, its also Miffy's Birthday! Miffy will be 58 on the 21st June 2013! I knew Miffy had been going for a long time but I hadn't realised this loveable little bunny was going to be 58!

I do love Dick Bruna's use of minimalistic lines and bright primary colours which make his artwork of Miffy easy to identify and appealing to both girls and boys (I have a girl, 1 and a Boy, 3)

To celebrate Miffy's birthday, we have received a Miffy tabard from MiffyShop.co.uk to review. 
The tabard is £5.99 and is PVC coated so it's easy to wipe down after cooking/painting/craft time.

In true Dick Bruna style, it's a unisex tabard - both my children loved it. It's reversible with a choice of Red or Blue background and either Miffy playing with a ball or skipping rope. 

The Tabard has elasticated sides and is recommended for children aged 3-4, Blake aged nearly 4 loved it and it was a good length for him, but it also didn't look out of place on Meg who's almost 2! It's excellent quality and the print is lovely and vibrant. 

Happy Birthday, Miffy!

You can follow Miffy on twitter @miffy_uk or www.facebook.com/Miffyuk 

Emma in Bromley xx

*For the purpose of this review, we were sent a Miffy Tabard.




Monday 13 May 2013

The Shining Girls by Lauren Beukes Review and Competition.

I was lucky to be sent a review copy of The Shining Girls by Lauren Beukes, the winner of the 2011 Arthur. C. Clarke award.

I love a good thriller and this really didn't disappoint! I was gripped! It's got an element of time travel (which satisfies my inner geek) and the novel is in seemingly random order so I found myself flicking back to check dates on the first couple of chapters but soon got into the rhythm of the story!

There's a lot of violence in this story (as expected, given its theme!) as it follows a serial killer's journey through time, the killer, Harper, gets great pleasure in visiting his victims as children or teenagers and again to kill them as adults, and sometimes returning to the scenes of their violent murders for sexual gratification ... so he really is one crazy man!

Kirby and her dog are loveable and I loved how the story twists from her being the hunted victim who survived her attack to the hunter searching for clues to lead her straight to the killer himself.

The main focus is on Kirby and the Killer - kirby is feisty and full of courage and determination, she's inspirational and has a great "sidekick" in Dan.

I liked how the element of time travel was represented via a room in a house and that Harper (the killer) explored Chicago in different eras, often using money or a local cafe as a way to determine when he is and represent how the time had changed.

The book delves into the lives of each victim so they all get a turn to literally "shine" in the story. There are things about them all which are great - they are all normal people who are full of potential and "shine" everyone can relate to the characters easily and you will see some if yourself in them. I particularly liked glow girl and the forward thinking member of Jane (a safe abortion service before it was legalised)

You can tell a lot of care and attention went into the research and writing of this novel and you can see how easily it could be adapted for a film.

Overall - would I recommend to a friend? Absolutely! It's so far, my fave grown up novel of the year!

Published by Harper Collins, Available now on Amazon:
http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/0007464568/






Press Release
"A serial killer who should be undetectable – until he picks on the wrong victim. In 1992 wild child Kirby Mazrachi, a clever, punkish misfit who miraculously survives his vicious attack, vows to track him down. But as his very existence is impossible – how can she ever find him?"
From the winner of the 2011 Arthur. C. Clarke award comes a masterpiece of thriller writing, quite unlike anything else in tone and conception. It is 1931 and Harper, a violent down-and-out is living a hand-to-mouth existence in the shanty town of Hooverville, Chicago. After a murder, he’s hounded out of Hooverville by a vigilante group and find refuge in a mysterious house. To the outside world, this looks like an uninhabitable wreck, but inside it is something quite different. Like the wardrobe in C S Lewis or The Tardis in Dr. Who? It gives him access to different times and also offers him a vision – of his ‘shining girls’, women across time who are to become his murder victims. He visits them as children, then as teenagers, then as adults, when he will kill them and leave anachronistic clues on their bodies.

Two damaged outsiders. Two impossible people locked in a bloody dance, a dance which will end in death. For one or the other..."

Competition

I'm lucky enough to have been offered a copy of the novel "The Shining Girls" by Lauren Beukes for one of my lovely readers.

To enter the competition, please leave a comment below telling me when in time, you would visit if you had a time travel house (For me, it'd have to be a coin toss - I'd love to see a Steggasaurus up close,  have lunch with Cleopatra, Breakfast with Audrey Hepburn, or revisit that first day after both my children were born or that first morning waking up on honeymoon!) don't forget to include a way for me to contact you if you are the winner, such as twitter id or email please. 

The prize will be sent directly to the winner from the company supplying the prize.

Open to the UK only please.

Competition will close on Monday 27th May 2013 at 12noon.

One winner will be selected using random.org, please reply with your details with 7days of winning or another winner will be selected.

Bonus entries:
•Tweet a link to the comp including @beachpebble
•Like "Emma in Bromley" Facebook page
•Pin this comp on pinterest
•Google + this post
•Follow me on Bloglovin
•Leave a comment on another of my blog posts (not other comps)

Please leave a separate comment below for each of your bonus entries so I can count them (max 1 for each method).

Emma in Bromley xx


*I was sent a copy of the book so that I could review it.

Friday 10 May 2013

Prizes for Parents Competition Round Up 10.05.13


Originally started by the lovely Emma at Mellow Mummy, I'd like to bring to you Prizes for Parents. 

This is a weekly roundup of some of the best competitions available on the web, I'll keep my eyes peeled for the best prizes or freebies on offer for UK families, mums, parents and health and beauty fans. 

I'll post a selection here of the ones I spot or if you have a competition you'd like me to include, just tweet me the link @beachpebble, email me or leave a comment below with the details and closing date. 

#prizesforparents
Prize must be open to UK winners.
Published every Friday.

 Win play-doh sets http://onedad3girls.com/2013/05/play-doh-competition/ entry by rafflecopter closes 01.06.13

• Win Star Wars book - Veda's little princess http://kidsblogclub.com/giveaway-win-a-star-wars-childrens-book/ entry by blog comment. Closes 21.05.13

• Win Sooty children's party DVD http://mamageek.co.uk/2013/05/07/entry by rafflecopter closes  19.05.13

•Win wow toys roll it rileyhttp://www.lovefrommummy.co.uk/2013/05/win-wow-toys-roll-it-riley.html entry by rafflecopter closes 21.05.13

• Win €25 Zulily voucher http://www.workingberlinmum.com/2013/05/styled-byzulily-with-voucher-giveaway.html entry by rafflecopter closes on 14th May 2013

• Win a brother max bath toy gift set.http://www.lovefrommummy.co.uk/2013/05/win-brother-max-3-bath-toys-gift-set.html enter by rafflecopter, closes 23.05.13

• Win a Little Dish goody bag.

• Win a Yoomi feeding system.

• Win Abadas come and play DVD. http://mamageek.co.uk/2013/04/29/giveaway-abadas-come-play-dvd/ entry by rafflecopter closes 12.05.13

• Win an Oxo feeding and weaning set http://www.amummytoo.co.uk/2013/04/win-oxo-feeding-and-weaning-set/ enter by tweet and blog comment closes 31.05.13

• Win cake for two months! http://www.amummytoo.co.uk/2013/04/win-a-gorgeous-slice-of-cake-delivered-to-your-door-every-week-for-2-months enter by tweet and blog comment. Closes 31.05.13

• Win a colour your own tee http://madhousefamilyreviews.blogspot.co.uk/2013/05/giveaway-284-win-colour-your-own-t.html enter by rafflecopter closes 22.05.13

• Win a trio of department 19 books http://madhousefamilyreviews.blogspot.fr/2013/04/giveaway-282-win-trio-of-department-19.html entry by rafflecopter closes 14.05.13

• Win a Kiddy evolution pro car seat
http://www.mellowmummy.co.uk/2013/05/kiddyevolutionpro.html entry by 3 steps highlighted on the blog post closes 31.05.13

• Win a giokit colour in t-shirt http://www.mellowmummy.co.uk/2013/05/win-giokit-colour-in-t-shirt-from.html entry by blog comment. Closes 20.05.13

• Win £150 amazon vouchers and runner up prizes http://www.mumsnet.com/Talk/sponsored_discussions/1741619-Talk-to-Roosterbank-com-about-pocket-money-great-prizes-to-be-won prize draw entry by online discussion. Closes 30.05.13 

• Win 5 funky giraffe bibs http://www.familyfourfun.co.uk/2013/04/funky-giraffe-bibs-review-giveaway.html closes 15.05.13 enter via rafflecopter.

• Win yu cereal barshttp://thediaryofajewellerylover.blogspot.co.uk/2013/04/yu-cereal-bars-review-and-competition.html closes 17.05.13 enter by rafflecopter 

• Win a Roku streaming playerhttp://thediaryofajewellerylover.blogspot.co.uk/2013/04/win-streaming-player-from-roku-ends.html closes 24.05.13 entry by rafflecopter

• Win a pair of personalised Cornish mugs http://www.london-unattached.com/2013/04/t-g-green-giveaway-and-creamy-salmon-pasta closes 16.05.13 entry by rafflecopter

• Win a copy of Geek Girl http://madhousefamilyreviews.blogspot.co.uk/2013/04/giveaway-281-win-copy-of-geek-girl.html
Closes 11.05.13 entry by rafflecopter 

• Win a Gotz Hannah doll http://allbabyadvice-blog.com/index.php/2013/05/win-a-gotz-hannah-doll-from-petalina/ closes 01.06.13 entry by blog comment.

• Win a Thorpe Park Family Passhttp://www.catsyellowdays.com/2013/04/30/saving-on-your-trip-to-thorpe-park-and-win-tickets-for-a-family-of-4/ Closes 20.05.13 entry by rafflecopter

• Win a silver cottage pendant http://a.pgtb.me/0tmCr0 entry by liking their Facebook page. Closes 31.05.13

• Win Ben Sherman Eau de toilette http://thediaryofajewellerylover.blogspot.co.uk/2013/05/perfume-click-giveaway-ends-310513.html entry by rafflecopter. Closes 31.05.13
• Win a £100 Voucher, Cow Toy and Wallet.http://zulilyuk.tumblr.com/post/49440672586/zulily-cuties-may-instagram-competition entry by Instagram closes 31.05.13

• Win a Tidy Books bunk buddy http://www.workingberlinmum.com/2013/04/competition-win-tidy-books-bunk-bed.html closes 17.05.13 entry by online form.

•Win a pair of personalised sheepskin booties http://allbabyadvice-blog.com/index.php/2013/04/win-a-pair-of-personalised-my-1st-years-luxurious-sheepskin-booties/ Closes 23.05.13 entry by rafflecopter.

• Win a set of 3 cookbooks (the Archers, Downton Abbey and Teatime Treats)
http://www.recipesfromanormalmum.com/2013/03/06/giveaway-5-downton-abbey-archers-cookbooks/ Entry by rafflecopter Closes 31.05.13


• Win £50 Its My Generation shopping vouchers. http://www.anewgeneration.co.uk/the-search-for-the-uks-most-stylish-toddler-commences/ Closes 15.05.13

Emma in Bromley x