Just got back from the most wonderful family holiday at Doniford Bay, near Watchet. It is really an amazing place, especially for those with young children, or special needs. We also took the dogs- which was so lovely. On the second night, we got chatting to another family who also had a boy called Harry. All of us got on like a house on fire- and it's one of those rare times when you are a bit older- but you actually meet people you really click with. I haven't got loads of friends, and even fewer close friends, so this was really special. Sophie and I bonded over spirituality, birthing stories and make-up tips- while the men drank cider, and also found out they had alot in common. My son Rowan ( 6) who has Aspergers, grew in confidence by playing with her son Harry ( 6) who has suspected ADHD. He also calmed down a bit due to Rowan's influence- so they really complimented each other. Sophie's little girl Summer ( 2) is the cutest and craziest child I've ever met. She is so brave and confident, running off at a hundred miles an hour, and holding her own with the big boys- she fell in love with my Harry ( 4) and on the last day there were tears and hugs all round as we went our seperate ways. We don't live too far from each other, so I just know we will keep in touch. And we're already planning our hols at the same park for next year! See my full review of the park here Doniford Bay Review
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I can't believe it's been a year since My High Street Wedding ! My hubby Wayne, and I managed to have the wedding of our dreams for just under £500 by shopping locally and promoting local businesses.
It all started when I found my wedding dress in a charity shop on the High Street. I realised I could get everything I needed right here in Shepton Mallet, and set my self the challenge of doing exactly that- on a tight budget. Most things I found in charity shops, or close by. Denela's bakery provided our buffet and Helen Reader from the Friday market made our invitations. Resisting the temptation to source bargains online, I contacted local entrepeneurs when I couldn't get what I needed in town. The Ivy Shed did my flowers, Sophie Futcher made my amazing Wedding 'cupcake' tower, while Kelly J Photography took some fabulous shots at our handfasting in Glastonbury Abbey the day after our register office ceremony. I'd really hoped my project would help to revive the High Street. It's so sad that since last May , even more shops have closed. Fred's, The pet store, Steve's Fish Bar, Twice As Nice, Jo's Gifts and even Cedar Lodge have gone. However, we now have another beauty salon 'Little Beauty's who do everything from nails to lip fillers and botox!There's the lush La Tavola D'Oro Italian restaurant, Custard Pudding, and now Starlight Art Studio & Juice Bar. Also, I'm really looking forward to Jamrock Caribean Take-Away opening soon. as published in The Shepton Mallet Journal, May 2016 Hot topics this week have been term time holidays, and Home Education. I commented in 'We Love Shepton Mallet' facebook group that “All families should be allowed to take their kids out during term time. There should be a set 'allowance' of 5 or ten days, to be taken whenever needed. It could be for a holiday because many families can only afford it during term time, kids on the Autism spectrum can find 'on peak' holiday distressing and overwhelming - we could not do a family holiday in peak season no way! Whether it's for visiting family,or a wedding. Parents should decide.” My High Street Wedding honeymoon last year was during term time, at less than half price and quieter it was a no brainer!
The topic lead on to a discussion about parents who withdraw kids from mainstream education all together, and teach at home. Last week, I began home schooling Rowan (6) who has Aspergers. I withdrew him before the Year 2 SATs on purpose, there is no need for him to go through extra stress of difficult Maths and literacy tests, when he struggles to put on socks and use cutlery! He'll start at St.Pauls in September, and I am confident their SEN team and wonderful principal Mr.Partridge will be able to fully support him. Harry (4) will continue at Shepton Infants, where is is happy and thriving. We'll use this time with Rowan to give him 1:1 teaching, including life skills, relaxation and ofcourse play. As published in The Shepton Mallet Journal, May 2016 |
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