TAYJAM

I HAVE BEEN LAZY WITH MY BLOG SO HERES AN UPDATE

2010-02-24T13:40:00.001-08:00

Well we are settling into Derbyshire life and I think I can say we are getting there, obviously being away from family and old friends is still hard but it is a part of life that we are now adapting to instead of dwelling on. We have started to visit some of the surrounding area but can't wait for spring to arrive when we can get out and about in the beautiful Peak District. A selection of photos from our new life are shown here...

The boys first day at their new school and Jamies first day at school ever, we didn't have a home only a rental cottage and we had just moved them 130 miles away from everyone and everything they knew, how proud Martin and I were of them and how nervous we were...brings me to tears thinking of it even now.

Our new home in the Xmas Eve snow...

My oh so grown up Taylor

Little Jamie excited about Santas pending visit

Carsington Water - can't believe we went out on a rowing boat....

BAKEWELL - HOME OF THE BAKEWELL PUDDING/TART

Some beautiful old buildings in oh so quaint Bakewell

The original Bakwell Pudding/Tart cafe where we partook in a slice, can taste it now...

I FEEL I CAN WRITE THIS NOW.....

2009-12-11T06:02:00.000-08:00

I have wanted to write about my friend Dawn who passed away at the end of September on this blog for some weeks now but it never was quite the right moment and now it is....

Dawn - what can I say, you were and still are an inspiration to us all. Dawn had a long battle with breast cancer and I mean a battle. It was a battle that she fought long and hard. It started off with breast cancer and then after a short period of remission reared its ugly head again in the form of bone cancer. All of Dawn's friends and family rallied round to raise money so Dawn could have the best chance of fighting this awful disease. Dawn was able through monies raised attend a clinic in Germany to obtain additional treatments alongside that offered in the UK. It was her sheer determination for life and living that got her on that plane...sometimes when she was in considerable pain.

I didn't see Dawn all the time and cannot take any credit for helping her every day of the week as did her very closest friends, but when I did see her we always, yes always managed to laugh. Dawn had a laugh that I will never forget a girlish giggle almost, how she managed to laugh sometimes I will never know but she did.

Dawn shared her story with the world through a progamme called the Mummies Diaries where they followed the story of a group of terminally ill Mums, it was the most poignant but beautiful programme and so sad when each of them lost their lives. Dawn was the last one standing (apart from one who was misdiagnosed) which shows the determination she had. I remember saying to her how brave she was doing the programme and she simply said if it helps other families it will all be so worthwhile. She also believed that by doing the programme it would be something her 3 gorgeous kids would have forever.

Dawn you will never be forgotten it was a privilege to have known you and yes I am angry with God for taking you but pleased that he let you enter my life.

Dawns kids are her legacy and they and Steve her husband are doing really well but we all know its hard and will be especially hard at this time of year.

Thank you Dawn for being my friend I will never forget youxxx

ITS BEEN A WHILE - GREETINGS FROM DERBYSHIRE

2009-11-16T06:08:00.000-08:00

Well after months of waiting to move and all the ups and downs we are finally here. We finally got into our house mid September after a week and a half at a little rental cottage in Mickleover. The move day was very distressing for all of us, friends turned up to wish us well and when they were leaving they and us broke down in tears...it was not easy but by far the hardest people to say bye to were my parents - we all stood their in a sort of disbelief wanting everything to go back to 'normal' cos thats what being around familiar things and people is 'normality'. Watching the kids cry when Nanny and Grandad were kissing us bye was heartwrenching...poor little Taylor I felt like we had stripped him of his life, his friends, his home, his world. I knew that being that much older it would be Taylor that would feel it the most - I wasn't wrong.

We locked the door of Cotswold Way for the last time in a bit of a blur. I have lived all my life in Reading and to say I wasn't frightened at that moment - well would be a lie. The journey up was one of laughter and tears but we were all feeling it we were driving away from our life and not even being able to get into our new home didn't help. The cottage was sweet and I remember unpacking thinking well this is it ' New beginnings'.

The Monday after we moved up the boys had to start school my little Jamie for the first time ever. Martin and I arrived at the school with the boys I guess feeling a little apprehensive, how would they be, would Taylor be ok without his mates, would Jamie be ok without me.....we need not have worried they did us proud.

Well all the above seems a long time ago now, can't believe we have been here 2 months already....we are all adjusting and I am totally suprised how we have all settled in so well. The boys are doing brilliantly at school had great feedback on both of them at parents evening and I am so proud of them as its been a big lifestyle change. Martin does not have that awful 2 hour plus each way commute and me I am enjoying my new house and have made a few friends. I do have moments when I miss my old life, my friends, my family but I guess I would not be human if I didn't. I hated the school run initially as it was a very lonely place the playground - full of all these people that knew one another, were friends and I didn't know a soul! I used to walk back to the cottage every day in tears feeling so so desperately lonely- but thats gone now faces are no longer strange they are familiar and a few of the Mums have been very kind to me which has helped.

I am not sure Derby will ever be HOME in the true sense of the word as Reading is and always will be but it is now where my home is where my life is. We have had lots of visitors and have spent more quality time with people than we would have done had we been in Reading, we have had visitors for the past 5 weeks...bed changing is now a constant in my life!!

I guess only time will tell how we all really feel about being here but for the most part we are happy in our new abode and surroundings.....

HAPPY 4TH BIRTHDAY TO MY LITTLE JAMIE!!!

2009-07-20T00:49:00.000-07:00

It is my gorgeous little Jaymo's Birthday today and I want him to have the best day ever as I love him so, so much.

When I first got pregnant with him it was quite a suprise as Taylor was 6 years old and the thought of going back to nappies and sleepless nights was quite daunting but I didn't know then that he would be the easiest of babies. He has made our family complete and brought so much joy into our lives. He is the funniest of kids at times with his hip hop dancing and little stories he makes me laugh all the time....his latest thing is his Michael Jackson pose it is hysterical. He is now trying to master the Moonwalk!!! I will miss him so much when he goes to school in September...

Enjoy your day Jamie, my little best mate!!!xxxxx Big Hugs from Daddy and Taylor tooxx

A LEGEND HAS DIED - BUT THE MUSIC WILL NEVER DIE!

2009-06-26T05:18:00.000-07:00

How sad to wake up to the news that Michael Jackson had passed away. My generation grew up with his music it was everywhere, he was everywhere - a big part of my youth. I was very lucky to see Michael and the rest of the Jackson Family including Janet at a concert they performed many years ago in Los Angeles at the LA Forum - it was amazing from beginning to end but he was the true star - the minute he came on to the stage the place erupted. He may be gone but his music will live forever.
RIP Michael Jackson....You can now rock with the angels.

HAPPY 10th BIRTHDAY TAYLOR - LOVE YOU.

2009-06-02T02:05:00.001-07:00

10 years old and a Spaceman already - wow you are so clever!!!

Can't believe 10 years today I was sitting in the hospital with a gorgeous baby boy in my arms...where has all the time gone. You are now in double figures which makes Mummy feel really old. We want you to have the best day ever, you enjoy your day.
Lots of love Mummy, Daddy and Jamiexxxx

WE'VE SOLD!!!!

2009-05-05T07:08:00.000-07:00

Accepted an offer on our house on Friday so keep your fingers and toes and everything else crossed for us that all proceeds well. Better find ourselves somewhere to live now....

A NEW EDITION TO THE FAMILY

2009-04-21T11:15:00.000-07:00

Jamie, Ollie and Teagan - in an outfit chosen especially for her by her Big Brother Ollie!

Noting like an an afternoon nap - so I can keep my Mum awake all night!!

"CHEESE' Birthday Girl Marie and her boys

Teagan gets a kiss from her big Brother Ollie!

An old Bird (my Sister Marie) and a young Bird (gorgeous Teagan)

My niece Lisa gave birth to a beautiful and I mean beautiful baby girl on Sunday evening, she is naming her Teagan. Went over to see her today and to say Happy Birthday to my big Sister Marie a few snaps shown above.

OUCH!!!

2009-04-09T11:16:00.000-07:00

Not nice!
Its gone down a bit but still nasty....

Well we are back and you could say we are literally back with a bump!!! Poor little Jamie was on the computer earlier (yes he is a wizz on here) when he, I don't know how managed to fall off the chair and crash to the floor banging his head on the computer desk on the way down. Have to say I think Taylor and I cried more than him he was so brave so Jamie now has his very own Egg for Easter.....

ITS BEEN A WHILE

2009-03-30T06:38:00.001-07:00

Ok so heres the thing I have and I am still having problems with my camera so there have been no posts for a while - ordered a new memory card today to see if it solves the problem so will have to wait and see.

Whats been happening in our world, well very little. The housing market is still very slow over the Stamp Duty threshold that our house falls into so not much movement at present - we are getting a few viewings now but the people have usually not sold theres etc etc Martin is commuting up and down to Leicestershire and staying over a few nights and I am left here with the kids - we are all feeling very tired. I am very keen now to just get things sorted as Jamie is due to start school in September. What I want is lots of good karma sent my way in the hope that we may sell in the next week or so.

FRIENDS

2009-02-27T12:05:00.001-08:00

These three are the best of friends they just get on so well together it makes me smile constantly. When one is sad the other is there to cheer them up it is just so lovely. They were at a party recently and I said to them all 'cheese' and this was the result...cracked me up when I saw it so just had to share it with you all....

ITS SNOWTIME!!!

2009-02-03T06:32:00.000-08:00

Gotcha....

Well the whole of England pretty much has been hit by heavy snow the last few days - I have never seen pics of London with so much snow. We can't cope though, no tubes, no buses and just general disruption, still Taylor enjoyed the day off school yesterday and we had fun having snowball fights and making a snowman.....

HAPPY 3RD BIRTHDAY OLLIE!

2009-02-02T05:38:00.001-08:00

Have a fantastic Birthday Ollie we will be over with your present when the snow stops!!!!

PHOTO OF THE WEEK

2009-02-01T03:40:00.000-08:00

Where has my little boy gone....just loved this pic so had to post it.

AN INSPIRATION TO US ALL

2009-01-30T09:19:00.000-08:00

My friend Dawn (Wigstowishes.org.uk) is a constant amazement to me she has been battling cancer for sometime now and is just so amazing. It seems that she gets the all clear in one place for her cancer and then low and behold it rears its ugly head somewhere else. How she keeps going is just well....I can't put into words. She is having a pretty bad time at the moment so please include her in your prayers as God may just be listening!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY AUNTIE JUNE

2009-01-18T11:57:00.000-08:00

Awesome MySpace Comments & Myspace Layouts

Enjoy your day Love us all in Englandxxxxx

WORKING 9 TO 5 AS A MECHANIC IS HARD WORK!

2009-01-18T09:26:00.000-08:00

Jamie had a Little Tikes workbench from Father Xmas and he was very keen to show you all how hard he has been working....

Better get this job started.

Its always good to smile...

Its so hard being a Mechanic - wheres that Mummy with my cup of tea!!

XMAS FESTIVITIES AND BIRTHDAY FUN!

2009-01-05T03:39:00.000-08:00

Karate Kid!!!!

A cuddle from the Godmother's but hey there's one missing - where's Auntie Nikki?

Cheers

Xmas Eve Fun with friends...

All boys together....

The boys baking shortbread for Xmas

Just wanted to post a few snaps of the last few weeks. Also thank you to everyone for all our Xmas pressies and for my Birthday pressies. We had a lovely time over Xmas and I had a wonderful Birthday on Sunday went to a lovely country pub restaurant called The Bunk near to where Julie lives and Julie, Mark and Thomas and Ness, Kirk and Luke joined us for lunch...it was a fun day and nice for me to share my Birthday with my friends. See the rest of you girlies on the 24th.

HAPPY NEW YEAR

2009-01-03T04:40:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to wish all my friends and family a Very Happy and Prosperous New Year. Hope you all had a great Xmas and have a very happy 2009.

Graphics & Myspace layouts

AND THE WINNER IS........

2008-12-17T10:52:00.000-08:00

Well how pleased was I that my fave won the X Factor (similar to the States American Idol but with different age group categories). The Girl that won was Alexandra Burke and it is her song Hallelujah! that you can hear playing now..trust me this girl is going to be big. The X Factor gave us Leona Lewis and now its given us Alexandra, I hope you agree she sounds amazing.

THE NURSERY NATIVITY PLAY!

2008-12-12T09:46:00.000-08:00

Best Friends Together...

The Cutest Shepherd I have ever seen!!!! Well I am biased.

Jamie and his beautiful Angel Jodi!

Jamie the Shepherd meets Joe the King.

My little Shepherd.

It really feels like Xmas now, hence the song. Jamie was in his first ever Nativity Play on Monday he was a little Shepherd, they wanted him to be the lonely shepherd originally but he didn't like being left behind....!It was so cute watching them, the singing was lovely and it certainly made you remember what Xmas is all about...
The singing was gorgeous and they all looked so sweet in their little outfits, it brought a tear to my eye and lots of the other parents their too. The staff at
the Nursery work so hard with them to achieve this as they are all so very little and it is a credit to them and the Nursery. I have put a few pics on for you all to get the feel of it and to get you in the Xmas mood...

SO PLEASED TO MEET YOU!

2008-11-28T02:54:00.000-08:00

So I finally got to meet gorgeous little Gabi yesterday and have that long awaited hug, it has been a long wait I can assure you over 2 and a half years so I made sure
that when that hug came I wasn't letting go too quickly. Nikki and Gabi met us in Reading for some lunch and shopping along with her sister Kerry and her two boys the so very handsome and grown up now Connor and adorable baby Archie.

Jamie and I had a really nice time seeing them all and all the children were so well behaved. Gabi has this cute little smile and is so polite and ladylike in all her actions, she is a credit to Nikki and Kevin.

We did some Xmas shopping and generally caught up it was just like I had seen Nikki yesterday - I guess when you are special friends time and distance doesn't matter. All too soon though the time had gone and it was time for our goodbyes, have to say that when Jamie and I walked away I was feeling a little emotional not knowing when I would get that hug from Gabi again or see her and little Jamie playing so nicely together. Of course it was also hard knowing that it would be a long time before Nikki and I would see one another also, for while telephones are amazing things it can never replace having your friend there to shop and chat with, especially one who is so special to you.

It was great to see them both lets hope its not another couple of years before we get together again.

HAPPY 18TH JACK

2008-11-26T08:44:00.000-08:00

MySpace Graphics & Free Myspace Layouts

Jack have a fantastic 18th Birthday we wish we were there to celebrate with you. Enjoy your first legal pint and don't end up looking like the chap above. Once again have a great day.

WHAT A SUNSET!!!

2008-11-19T08:48:00.000-08:00

Well you have seen the Turkish sunsets in earlier posts but I took these shots of my garden earlier tonight, the sky was just so beautiful I had to capture the moment. Who said English weather was bad!!!

CONGRATULATIONS TO GERALDINE AND TONY

2008-11-14T04:52:00.001-08:00

We went to a lovely wedding on Saturday of my old work colleague Geraldine and her new man and now husband Tony. It was lovely to see them both so in love and so happy....ah!! Great to see also my old drinking partner Mags and her hubby Paul and daughter Victoria. We all had a lovely day. Sorry about the lack of pics but just my luck the batteries on my camera went after a few snaps...isn't it always the way!! Awaiting more snaps from Mags so watch this space.

Cheers Mags, lovely to see you.

Victoria and Jamie playing with his Go Go's.

The blushing bride!

Taylor and Jamie in their Sunday best.

Mags and I enjoying a glass of wine as you do!!

A BUSY WEEK

2008-11-06T01:25:00.001-08:00

Well the boys had a busy week, Halloween, Bonfire Night and for Jamie Joe's 4th Birthday Party. Here are a selection of the best pics.

OK now we have emptied the toy box we can play.....

Joe's 4th Birthday Party - all the kids want the same toy but don't they always!!!

Scaring Nanny and Grandad but it doesn't seem to be working!!

Spooky!!!

OK Mummy says 'Hold the sparkler away from me' I think I have got the hang of this!

Not easy keeping sparklers alight in the rain!!!

HOUSING BLUES!!!

2008-11-03T06:02:00.000-08:00

Well you may or may not know that we are on the move - well we would like to be. Due to Martin getting promoted to General Manager of a site in Leicestershire we have our house on the market. Not the best time as you would imagine to be trying to sell a house but we have to try - no luck so far though!!

We are not sure exactly where we will end up living but really like the Derbyshire area that we looked at last weekend - can't look really seriously though until our house sells.

It will be really sad to leave here as all our friends and family are in Reading and we have both lived here all our lives but needs must. We will really miss everyone but we do need to go sooner rather than later as poor old Martin is commuting up there 3 days a week and its not the best scenario. So keep your fingers crossed for us and I'll keep you posted.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY NESS!!!!

2008-10-16T06:20:00.000-07:00

Graphics & Myspace layouts

Happy Birthday to my dear old friend Ness who as you can see from the picture above does not look a day over......!! She's not lost her stylish dress sense alright a few wrinkles have appeared but she is still a real looker!!! Wish we were there to celebrate with you but at your age too much partying is not good for the heart!!!

Have a good day Ness, see you soon.

UP TOWN GIRLS

2008-09-30T03:20:00.001-07:00

Well the girlies had their annual meet up in London on Saturday and had a fun time. The sun shone for us so we headed for Covent Garden which is always good when the sun is out. First stop lunch and then a much needed glass of wine....but oh no it wasn't to be...disaster struck we had sat at probably the only cafe in Covent Garden that didn't have an alcohol licence which probably explains how we got an outside table so easily...The waiter talked us into a non alcoholic Rose wine which was a bad mistake tasted of nothing...oh well the food was good.

After lunch we had a pleasant stroll around all the little boutiques in the area and a few purchases were made....this of course made us very thirsty so we had of course to get a well deserved drink after this exhausting shopping, so we headed in for a little light refreshment and emerged 2 hours later, needless to say the second stop served wine!!! Well there was no going back for us then so after another small shopping interlude we headed for a cocktail bar before going to Da Mario Italian Restaurant for a very nice evening.

You are probably now wondering where are the pictures of us all on this superbly exciting day, well Ruth took her camera but completely forgot to take any pics, its obviously an age thing as she is 48 in a few weeks....still at least she remembered her camera which was more than the rest of us did!! Old age its certainly coming fast!!!!! Well I have at least managed to post a pic of Covent Garden to let you all know where we were and you will just have to imagine 5 stunning women in the shot!!

It has to be said that I could not finish this story without talking about the lovely end to our day...We ended up in the so called 'Quiet Carriage' not the best place for a group of girls at anytime, but after a few glasses of wine. Anyway we were actually fairly quiet but Ruth noticed there was a voice message on her phone from Ness who we had left earlier, well no sooner had she put her phone to her ear when there he was 'Mr Jobsworth' yes you know the type "You can't use that in this carriage" he said well we thought it was hilarious as Ruth was not saying a word only listening to a message..he persisted with his point until we pointed out that he in fact was the one making the noise...Needless to say he made a swift retreat at this point never to be seen again.

Well that was our day, we wished a few more of you could have been there with us Ali, Kathy, Nikki but we did think of you all, maybe next time!

CONGRATULATIONS TAYLOR!!!!

2008-09-29T06:59:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to let you all know that Taylor was elected School Councillor for his class (Year 5) on Friday. I must admit it was a nervous wait by me in the playground before he came out of school, as I knew he would be very upset had he not achieved it this year. Taylor had worked so hard canvassing for votes etc so you can imagine how pleased I was when he finally came out beaming from ear to ear and announcing that he had won. I was so proud of him as he had tried a few times before and had never given up, so to finally be elected and achieve his goal was a nice feeling for us all but especially for him. The 2 boys he had been up against in the final round had both been on the School Council before so I felt that it was only right that Taylor won (but I guess I am biased). Anyway Congratulations Taylor, Mummy, Daddy and Jamie are very proud of you.

TAYLOR FOR CLASS 5 SCHOOL COUNCIL REP

2008-09-21T08:37:00.000-07:00

Taylor is up for the School Council again this year, he has got so close a few times before and I really hope he wins on Wednesday as he worked hard on his speach and canvassing for votes. Anyway just wanted to say Good Luck Taylor hope you win and finally get to be on the School Council.

A TRIP TO CLIVEDEN - A BEAUTIFUL BRITISH ANCESTERAL HOME

2008-09-15T06:24:00.001-07:00

Our new house - well we can all dream!!!

In an English Country Garden.

Cliveden

Great house but even better ice cream!!!

A small section of the house!

"Daddy can our new house have a garden like this?"

Check out the back drop!!

One of the magnificient fountains.

On a little island in the 'Water Garden'

This tree is just the perfect size for me.

We are members of the National Trust and yesterday we visted Cliveden. The house itself was built in 1670 for the 2nd Duke of Buckingham. In 1893 the house was purchased by William Waldorf Astor who displayed many items of beautiful furniture and paintings there. The house is now currently a hotel (a very posh one at that) and you can only actually visit 3 of the rooms there, however the grounds and the surrounding woodland are beautiful. On days like this it makes you proud of your British heritage and you wonder at how such beautiful places were created with such lack of building machinery. Hope you enjoy the pics.

HOW PROUD AM I!!! A NEW ERA BEGINS.

2008-09-10T08:26:00.000-07:00

I am so proud of my little boy Jamie, he started St. Joseph's Nursery on Monday and thre wasn't a tear or tantrum in sight, well apart from me that was who could not help shed a little tear at leaving him. When I collected him 2 and a half hours later I got told that when they had song time Jamie stood up and done his Wall-E dance and song for all the other kids - how's that for confidence on your first day. Well done Jamie, you are a little star!!

AND BERNARD SCORES FOR ENGLAND....

2008-09-07T10:00:00.000-07:00

Taylor took some superb shots of Jamie playing football the other day so I wanted to share them with you all - a future England player maybe....well we can all dream. Hope you all like the music as it certainly bought back a few memories of that oh so nearly England World Cup campaign, but then again they are all oh so nearly......!!!!

BACK TO SCHOOL!!!

2008-09-02T09:29:00.000-07:00

Well Taylor went back to school today after his Summer break and it doesn't feel like we have had a Summer at all. The weather here in the UK has been yet again bad this Summer, rain, rain and more rain. For all those reading this from warmer climates you don't know how lucky you are!!! I have managed to use the BBQ twice in about 3 months...and it was much the same last year. Come to think of it since we purchased the new gas BBQ the Summer's have been bad so it may be all my fault. Oh well I guess we have next Summer to look forward to!!!!!

On a totally different subject Jamie made me really laugh the other day we were busy putting a toy together and he started to show me how it should be done and then promptly said "Now have you got that Mummy is it perfectly clear" I couldn't stop laughing...that little boy's language skills are amazing....

FRIENDS!!!

2008-08-25T11:30:00.000-07:00

Cheese!!! Well everyone except Jamie that is who was more interested in his picture than me - says it all really.

Jamie and Dom display their works of art - look how good Dom's drawing of Wall.E is a budding Picasso I think!!

Luke visited on Tuesday and we had a fun day with him - we wish he lived closer!!

Well this has been a week of friends visiting. Taylor and Jamie have had such a fun week a special "Thank You" to Dom who was so patient and kind to Jamie all day Wednesday. Also a big Thank you to Auntie Vanessa from the boys for their Birthday presents (we haven't met up since their Birthdays).

WALL.E MAD!!!!

2008-08-22T12:41:00.000-07:00

Jamie has gone Wall.E mad he just loves him, so much so he has developed a lovely little song and dance that he shows everyone and I mean everyone. The dance is shown above but unfortunately you can't hear his singing as I recorded on my camera but the words are easy to learn they go like this Wall.EE, Wall.EE I am sure you will all get the hang of it so go on sing along with his little dance...

TURKEY, SUN, SEA AND SAND

2008-08-12T00:47:00.001-07:00

There's a wave coming Taylor...

Its nearly here Taylor.......

It got us!!!!

ME AND MY BROTHER!!!

2008-08-11T08:15:00.001-07:00

They shout at one another, they fight with one another, but when all is said and done they LOVE ONE ANOTHER and wouldn't be without one another, as these pictures show!!!!

FUN IN THE SUN!!!

2008-08-04T05:58:00.000-07:00

Me and my boy - how grown up he looks.

Only last week but it seems a million miles away now!

The boys from the Bus Stop bar strutt their stuff - think they should have danced to 'Relight My Fire'

Taylor and Jasmine on the kids cocktails.

How beautiful is this - not quite the same view out of my window at the moment as its pouring with rain....

Wolky (Bus Stop) and Taylor. Jazz and him were helping behind the bar!!!

We nearly turned into skeletons the night this pic was taken an hour and 15 minute wait for our dinner....boy were we hungry.

Friends together...we miss you Jasmine or as Alfie would say Jazz Band

The Sugar Babes were in town - I know only one of us fits the bill but we can dream!!!

One of the stunning views from the 12 Island Boat Tour....

Two Old Birds in Fethiye and no I don't mean me and Kathy!!

The effort that went into this picture you will never know!!!

Taylor and I have just had a lovely week in Turkey got back earlier today. Martin very kindly said he would have Jamie for a week so I could go and see my friend Kathy and her daughter Jasmine who were staying at her villa for the summer - so after a great deal of thought we booked our flights on the Friday and were off on the Monday. We had a really nice relaxing week and want to say thank you to Kathy and Jazz for inviting us and we are missing you both....enjoy the rest of the Summer. Jus to let you know it hasn't stopped raining here since we got back!!!

BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS

2008-07-21T09:58:00.001-07:00

Me, Taytay and Ollie looking at my cake!!

Me, Ollie and my Cheeky Monkey Cake, Birthdays are great, cake, cake and more cake!!!

You can help me Taytay....

Whats in here?

Ok so I have waited all year for it to be my Birthday at Toddlers and then I go all shy!!!

Waiting for my cake at Toddlers!

Ok so they say children are unpredictable and that is exactly what Jamie was at his Toddlers group last week...he has waited all year for it to be his Birthday and every time it was another child who got the cake and present he cried and said 'thats not fair'. Jamie finally gets his moment and goes all shy and sad....just when I thought he would be really happy, kids eh!

We had a lovely day celebrating his 3rd Birthday yesterday and the sun even shone for some of the day, well no rain anyway, its just where to put all those presents now, still thats my problem and not his!!

HAPPY 3RD BIRTHDAY LITTLE MAN!!!

2008-07-20T07:08:00.001-07:00

Happy, Happy Birthday to our little Jamie 3 today, we can't believe your 3 already where has the time gone. Glad you enjoyed first trip to the Movies yesterday to see Wall-E, unfortunately you haven't grasped the concept yet that movies have to end, so you had a few tears!! Can't stop to write more as I need to finish one of your cakes.

Love you, have a great day.
Mummy, Daddy and Taylorxxxxxxx

HAVE A GREAT HOLIDAY OLLIE AND DOM

2008-07-18T13:23:00.000-07:00

To the Scotts, enjoy your holiday in Maderia. Just for you Ollie we have added
Sam Sparro to our playlist(Black and Gold!!!

See you on your return.

BECAUSE....

2008-07-16T04:22:00.001-07:00

Because I'm feeling poorly....(after eating a bag of chocolate animals)

Because I want to pull a silly face.....

Because I want to get in your bed....

Because I love you....

HAPPY 50TH CRYSTAL

2008-07-16T03:47:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to send very special Birthday wishes to a very special person my cousin Crystal. Wish we were there to celebrate with you, maybe next year!! Anyway have a fantastic day we are thinking of you. We miss you and think of you often.

WELCOME TO THE OLD CODGERS CLUB KIRK!!

2008-07-14T04:28:00.001-07:00

Have a fantastic 40th Kirk easy going on the celebrations as you wouldn't want to overdo it at your age!!!

COMPETITION TIME

2008-07-11T06:45:00.000-07:00

So all you art lovers out there who is the above painting of? A master piece I am sure you will agree created by the fair hand of Master Taylor - I know that you are all jealous not to have such a picture adorning your walls, so if you guess correctly I am sure he would paint another creation for you. So go on, you know you know who it is, the first clue is the Number 8.

HERE COMES THAT BRITISH SUMMER

2008-07-11T06:33:00.001-07:00

It may be pouring with rain but I'm smiling as I get to jump in those muddy puddles.

Will I keep dry in this Mummy!!

Well it rained and it rained and it rained, it just wouldn't stop raining here on Wednesday they said we would have a months rain in one day and boy were they right - what I want to know is who stole our Summer. They stole our Summer last year and it looks like they are going to steal it again. Jamie loved it though as he got to splash around in those puddles, Taylor and I were not quite as keen.

Ok so guess which month this was taken in - no not April - July!!!!

LONDON CELEBRATIONS

2008-07-07T01:59:00.000-07:00

The Houses of Parliament

Birthday boy Martin

Ness and Kirk enjoying the sunshine

Our suite at the County Hall Marriott - the views were amazing.

Kirk trying to be He Man in the rooftop garden at the restaurant - I think he was struggling somewhat!

At Coq d'argent French Restaurant in the City - we are on a viewing platform and the winds blowing - plays havoc with the hair!!

Out for a stroll - check out the London Eye behind us!

View from our hotel suite - Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament

To celebrate Martin's 40th and Kirk's pending 40th in a weeks time Ness and I treated our boys to a luxury weekend in London. We stayed at the County Hall Marriott Hotel originally the offices of the London Mayor until 1986 so a very historic site. The hotel was situated right on the Thames by the London Eye and faced the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben so the views were really something.

We took the boys to a French Restaurant in the evening which was located on the roof top of one of the buildings in the City Square Mile. We had a lovely evening and the drinks flowed!!!

The weekend was great it was nice to spend some time together without the kids although we love them dearly we all need a break every so often and Martin and I have waited 9 years for ours so we were well overdue. An altogether great weekend with very special friends.

HAPPY 40TH MARTIN/DADDY

2008-07-02T01:54:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Graphic Comments

We just wanted to wish you a wonderful 40th Birthday and to say we love you very much. Hope you enjoy your day and your special weekend in London.
XXXX

SPORTS DAY FUN!!!!

2008-06-27T08:56:00.000-07:00

So Yesterday was Sports Day at Taylor's School and Jamie and I spent the whole day there watching the events, having a picnic etc. Taylor did really well with a good mix of 1st/2nd/3rd places and his House (Matthew the green team) won the overall event for the second year running - which made Taylor smile and me being the sad Mum jump up and down as if they had won the World Cup!!! The rain held off and as you will see from the pics Jamie and his little friend Aidan were very tired at the end of it and did the typical man thing relaxed with a beer (but in there case a Tropicana Go)!!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY PRINCESS GABRIELA!! 2 TODAY

2008-06-18T01:00:00.000-07:00

Disney Graphic Comments

HAPPY BIRTHDAY GABI, HAVE A FANTASTIC DAY, WE HOPE YOU HAVE LOTS OF LOVELY PRESENTS AND REMEMBER TO EAT LOTS AND LOTS OF CAKE AS YOU ARE ALLOWED TODAY!!! WISH WE WERE THERE TO CELEBRATE WITH YOU, BIG HUGS AND KISSES. KAREN, MARTIN, TAYLOR AND JAMIEXXX

TAYLOR'S BIRTHDAY CAKE

2008-06-06T09:04:00.000-07:00

The thing is how can you post a blog entry without showing the main man with his cake. Taylor wanted a Liverpool Football Club cake and that's what he got, check out the neat football candles...I loved them and the cake wasn't bad either, of course I made it all myself!!!!!!

HOPE YOU HAD A GREAT BIRTHDAY WEEKEND TAYLOR

2008-05-27T06:33:00.000-07:00

Who would have believed that it was 9 years ago yesterday that you came into our lives and changed us forever, as from that moment nothing for us was the same again. I remember staring at you in the hospital and not quite believing that this gorgeous little boy was mine (and Daddy's too) you were tiny and so very, very precious and still are - not so tiny now though as you are nearly bigger than me (not difficult that one).

You are so very special to us, you are always helping Jamie with things and you put up with him and his 2 year old tantrums really well...how well you have taken to having a little brother after 6 years of being an only child. We are very proud of you as you try so hard in everything you do.

Mummy, Daddy and Jamie hope that you had a great weekend in Manchester, enjoyed the Tour of Old Trafford, your trip on the Manchester Wheel and shopping at The Trafford Centre...something to remember I am sure you will agree!

Above are a selection of pictures from our weekend - Checkout the amazing Trafford Shopping Mall, reminds me of some of the hotels in Las Vegas,the pics Old Trafford Football ground and the photograph of the players that died in the Munich air disaster, the weird thing about this pic is that all the players shown on the righthand side (highlighed in red) all died, all those on the left survived.....
Oh and just look how high that wheel was!!

WE MISSED YOUR BIRTHDAY JAS!!!

2008-05-27T05:42:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to send a belated Birthday message to a SPECIAL LITTLE LADY JASMINE. Sorry we forgot - hope you had a lovely day.

Love
The Bernards

HAPPY BIRTHDAY ANDREW WITH LOVE FROM ENGLAND

2008-05-16T03:57:00.001-07:00

Myspace Happy Birthday Comments & Graphics

Have a fantastic day Andrew we all wish we were there in California to celebrate with you, maybe another year....

Lots of Love
All your relations in England

JAMIE THE MODEL

2008-05-14T06:52:00.000-07:00

Jamie decided that he wanted his picture taken so who am I to say no, I mean I have nothing better to do with my day!! Anyway here are a few of the better shots....

HAPPY BELATED BIRTHDAY GERALDINE

2008-05-14T06:30:00.000-07:00

OK so after all these Birthdays I have been posting I forgot one. Hope you had a lovely day Geraldine and look forward to seeing you soon.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DAD FOR YESTERDAY 78 YEARS YOUNG!!!

2008-05-11T11:22:00.000-07:00

Should we be looking at the camera.

We're doing the Mexican Wave!!!

You can't beat an English Strawberry on a sunny afternoon!!!

It was my Dad's Birthday yesterday he was 78 and is still as mad as ever!! Mum and Dad came around for lunch then Marie, Lisa, Jay and Ollie came mid afternoon for Birthday cake and drinks. We all had a really fun day in the garden as the weather here was 27, not bad for England!!! It has been another scorcher here today, hotter than some places in the Med but I am sure it won't last as all good things come to an end as we all know.

Anyway Dad heres to the next 78!!!

HAPPY 40TH AUNTIE NIKKI - HAVE A LOVELY DAY

2008-05-08T06:56:00.000-07:00

Mummy says you are officially 'OLD' today. Taylor, Mummy and Daddy and I wanted to wish you a very special HAPPY BIRTHDAY, because you are so very special to us. We all wish we were there to celebrate with you so have a glass of bubbly (whatever that is) and think of us.

Lots of love your Little Godson Jamie, Taylor my big brother and Mummy and Daddy. xxxxxxxx

ps Mummy said she found this picture of the 2 of you the other day and couldn't stop laughing she said to tell you to 'Check out the hair'!!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY CAROLE!!!

2008-05-07T07:08:00.000-07:00

Have a lovely Birthday Carole - not too many glasses of wine.

Love

Karen, Martin, Taylor and Jamie

GOODNIGHT KEEGAN WE WILL MISS YOU.

2008-04-29T01:52:00.000-07:00

Sunday was a very, very sad day for us our beautiful

placid, cute little cat was attacked and killed by a dog whilst sleeping in the sun outside our neighbour's house.

Keegan was a lovely little cat she was a stray that Martin

and I took in when we lived in Caversham, she came to us

starving and at first we thought we had better not feed her

as she belonged to someone else. Back she came every day

until we gave in and fed her, that was it then she never left.

She was a funny little thing she used to lick your ears and

climb around your neck, which made you look like you were

wearing a fur collar...crazy but cute!!

When we moved to Tilehurst she settled in very quickly but a

few years after we moved in she got herself lost but we managed

to get her back after 2 weeks - how lucky were we.

Only a month ago she got lost again and after a week and a half

of putting up posters, ringing vets etc we got her back again.

She had been taken to a local vets by a lovely couple who had

found her, I rang the vets and well you can guess the outcome.

Many tears of happiness were shed that day at having her back.

Of course now many tears of sadness have been shed at how

our lovely little friend died on Sunday. Taylor was distraught

well we all were. Little Jamie just thinks that she is now

having a lovely sleep in our garden...I guess this is the best

way to think of it. Children sometimes have the most simplistic

view of things and in reality thinking of it this way is the

least painful to all of us.

We will just remember all the times she shared with us

like playing in the snow only 2 weeks ago (pic above)

I know she was only a cat but she was part of our family

and our lives for a very long time and we will miss her

and I am sure anyone who has ever lost a pet will

understand these sentiments.

A DOCTOR WHO ADVENTURE!!

2008-04-18T06:40:00.000-07:00

In the Tardis with Luke and Thomas.

Taylor with the Doctors friendly Dog K9.

Me and my friends Luke and Thomas and the
Face of Boe....

Luke and Taylor caught by
the Sycorax.

Yesterday we had a fun day in London. We went to see the Dr Who Exhibition at Earls Court with Ness and Luke and Julie and Thomas. Martin stayed at home with Jamie as we thought he may be a little frightened by some of the exhibits.

It was a fun day and after the exhibition we headed off to the UK's biggest toy store in Regent Street - Hamleys, as you can imagine with 3 boys this was not the quickest of trips to a shop ever made and we emerged several hours later needing a drink of the alcholic variety!!! We then headed off to Planet Hollywood for a well earned sit down and meal. We had a lovely day but needless to say the wallet is a little lighter from this adventure - nothing in London comes cheap!!

IT MUST BE SPRING BECAUSE ITS SNOWING!!

2008-04-06T04:32:00.000-07:00

Well the snow prediction finally happened and we woke up to it this morning. The boys were both very excited and couldn't wait to get out there and build themselves a snowman. So breakfast was eaten with haste and off to the garden we went...Jamie just loved jumping up and down in it and Taylor took great delight in deluging his Mum with snowballs...hope you enjoy the snaps as much as we did taking them.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY BREANA

2008-04-02T02:09:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to wish Breana a very Happy Birthday from all her relations in the UK. Have a lovely day, we wish we were there to share it with you.

Lots of love from us all. xxxx

TAYLOR IN HIS SCHOOL'S EASTER PRODUCTION

2008-03-25T03:10:00.000-07:00

Taylor was very excited to have been picked to play Jesus in his School's production of the 'Stations of the Cross', depicting the way Our Lord was treated at the end of his life. He was so good, there were parts of it where he did not have to move at all - not easy for an 8 year old. Anyway, here are a few snaps from his moment of stardom, unfortunately they are not very good as we were not right at the front and it was extremely dark in the school hall....I hope you will however still enjoy viewing them.

HAPPY EASTER TO YOU ALL - ITS SNOWING HERE!!!!

2008-03-22T12:47:00.000-07:00

Happy Easter to eveyone!!

I just wanted to let you all know what really unusual weather we are having here in the UK (for all of you in the States). Yesterday we went for a drive and whilst we were out we had the following mix of weather, sunshine, torrential rain, hailstones, snow and sleet - can anyone tell me what is going on. It's Easter and its snowing!!!!

They have predicted snow overnight and for most of tomorrow Easter Sunday = so no Easter Egg Hunts in my garden.

Well it only remains for me to say once again Happy Easter and not too much chocolate as you know you will regret it.

Look out for the Snow pictures if we get it........

A FEW SNAPS OF THE LITTLE ONE!!!!

2008-03-17T06:48:00.000-07:00

Fast asleep in my Little Digger bed! Ah......

"Mummy look I'm Peppa Pig" for all those who don't know Peppa and family lie on the floor and wiggle their legs in the air when they are laughing!!!

"CHEESE", I love having my photo taken.

" How little do I look in this great big bath, come on Taylor have your picture taken too."

Jamie saying his favourite saying "Thats Not Fair" and scowling at I told him he had to get out now.

"Look what Mummy did to my hair"!

Just a few snaps that I took of Jamie yesterday, just like his little friend Gabi over the water he looks like a little dot in the bath too....Taylor it has to be said would not have agreed to any snaps of him in the bath, or sleeping, but as Taylor is to be a star this week he is Jesus in the School's Easter Production I think his moment may come in a few days time....thats if we are allowed to take photos.

A DAY AT RAF MUSEUM, HENDON, N.LONDON

2008-03-03T07:11:00.000-08:00

Watch out Jamie there is a spitfire over head!!!

Up, Up and Away.

I liked it so much I joined the RAF!

Daddy quick the planes going to hit us!

Me and my favourite plane - a Harrier Jump Jet.

Flying high with the Mustang!

We had a great day at the Raf Museum whilst Taylor was on school holidays. It had all the new planes that the RAF use and other planes from America and around the world. There was an amazing display of all the planes used during the First and Second World Wars and Jamie spent the whole time going Wow! Taylor I think now fancies himself as a pilot and from the picture shown above you can see he has already joined the RAF!!!

It really was a interesting place to visit to get the feel of how wartime life was for everyone and to see how much technology has moved on and is still doing so, the added bonus was that the whole place was free to visit, which was remarkable in itself.

A DAY WITH THE DINOSAURS!!!

2008-02-20T08:52:00.000-08:00

Sunday was a glorious sunny day here and we decided to visit the Natural History Museum in Oxford to show the boys the Dinosaur collection. Jamie was a little reluctant to go at first as when I said "do you want to go to see the dinosaurs" he promptly replied "no Mummy they will eat me" - bless him he thought that they were going to be alive!!! After we put his fears to rest we had a lovely day as they say "Walking with Dinosaurs". A few snaps above of our dinosaur adventure.

THE OAP OUTING TO READING

2008-01-28T02:50:00.000-08:00

Well the girls were out in Reading on 19 January for a late celebration of my Birthday. We had a fun time we started with a little shop, and then stopped after about 20 minutes for a coffee - we don't have the stamina these days......its an age thing.

More shopping then followed and before we knew it Cocktail Time had arrived....gone were the days when we could just walk in and order, now it was a 15 minute makeup reapplication when we first arrived, followed by another 10 minutes hunting for our glasses before we finally checked out the cocktail list......and then the age thing of indecisiveness kicked in - what to order....finally after about 30 minutes we had a drink!!! After this the drinks became easy to order wine was a quick option so we went for this, then it was off to the Tai restaurant for more chat, great food and drinks. We would have loved you to be there Nikki but we took a few snaps for you so you could share our evening.....so you were there with us in spirit.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MUMMY - YOUR OFFICIALLY OLD NOW!!!!

2008-01-07T03:29:00.000-08:00

My Big boy Taylor looking very handsome.
That old bird on her Birthday, showing off her Xmas weight gain!!!
Cuddling up with Daddy...ah!!!
It might be cold outside but its lovely and warm in here.
No you can't share my ice cream Mummy, even if it is your Birthday!!

Had a lovely Birthday on the 4th, spent all Martin's money in Southampton then went for a lovely meal at the Swan in Pangbourne where we were lucky enough to get the table by the roaring log fire.....a lovely end to a lovely day. The only problem with the day is that I am as Taylor told me officially OLD!!!!

HAPPY NEW YEAR TO YOU ALL

2008-01-07T03:00:00.001-08:00

A few shots from the Xmas period that I thought you might all like. Taylor making shortbread/Father Xmas at one of Jamies toddler parties/Taylor and his football team meet a Reading FC player/Jamie's Girlfriend Jodies 3rd Birthday party/Brotherly love - well sometimes!!!

WHERE IS TAYLOR TO SHARE MY CRACKER!

2007-12-07T02:47:00.000-08:00

We put the Xmas trees up a the weekend and both the boys were very excited. Jamie wanted his photo taken last night with as he says his 'Father Xmas Tree' he seems to think the word Xmas has to have Father in front of it all the time hence we now have Father Xmas Cards, Father Xmas lights etc etc. Taylor was having tea at Nanny, Grandads last night so he is not in these shots.....

XMAS IS COMING THE ADVENT CALENDARS ARE UP

2007-12-03T08:31:00.000-08:00

Well the Advent Calendars were put up at the weekend and both the boys loved opening a door to find a little chocolate goodie inside. They also have a Playmobil calendar which is always so nice to do, opening the little boxes with the toys in each December day to create a lovely Xmas scene. The scene this year when completed will be Father Xmas in a woodland surrounded by birds etc which he is feeding.

Jamie has not however grasped the concept of Advent calendars ie that you open a door every day to find a little chocolate gift right up until Xmas Eve. I know he is confused as we had an interesting morning......Taylor had gone off to school having opened his calendar and Jamie who was still in bed at this point then came down and I let him have his Thomas the Tank calendar and he happily munched into his chocolate treat. About an hour later Jamie was watching Peppa Pig in the lounge and I went to make my beds....it was very quiet downstairs, I should have known it was too quiet. On coming back downstairs I found a very excited little Jamie with a face covered in chocolate he had decided to tear apart Taylor's calendar to discover where the rest of the chocolate was......Bart Simpson picture/doors were no more!!! Bless him he didn't understand but I was a bit worried to say the least as to how Taylor would take the news!!! Grandad came to the rescue however he purchased me another one at the local shop, so all ended well.

Upon thinking about what had happened I realised that I know a few adults that can't leave the chocolates alone once they are opened, so who can blame the little chap.

SPOOKY GOINGS ON AT THE BERNARDS!!!

2007-11-02T06:08:00.001-07:00

The little pumpkin and the evil skeleton.

The kind spider.

It was a cold dark Halloween night when there was a knock at the door at the Bernards. In ran a large spider who told them to beware there were two pumpkins in the area looking to spend the night, one a good pumpkin, who would turn children into pumpkins for a while and one an evil pumpkin who would turn children into evil beings like skeletons. The Bernards laughed and said they knew this was Halloween but this was bizarre......

A little later two pumpkins knocked their door and to their amazement Jamie was turned into a little pumpkin and Taylor into a skeleton, the evil skeleton tried to attack the little pumpkin but as soon as the little pumpkin put on his magic hat....all was well. DON'T BELIEVE US LOOK AT THE PICTURES ABOVE TO PROVE IT!!!!

Hope you all had a great Halloween night and have fun on 5th November (Guy Fawkes).

AN AUTUMN DAY!

2007-10-23T11:30:00.000-07:00

A cuddle with Grandad.

I love you being off school Tay.

What a beautiful day........

How do you juggle with leaves anyway?

Do we look alike?

I wish it was a real dog!!!!!

Brotherly Love!

It's been a while since I have posted as my computer has been in the hospital for working too hard!!! Now fully recovered I thought I would let you know what we are up to. It's half term and we (Taylor, Jamie and I) went off this morning to Jamie's toddler group to get a photo of the boys taken together but Jamie decided today was the day to be camera shy (isn't it always the way) so we came home and I took a few shots in the garden. Grandad turned up and as he is not camera shy decided that he would join in!!! The boys loved playing in the garden with all the leaves that have fallen everywhere, Jamie was throwing them at Taylor and they were having a ball.

START OF A NEW WEEK

2007-10-08T03:26:00.000-07:00

Well it was a nice relaxing weekend for me, went to London with the girls, spent the day shopping, eating and drinking. As much as I love the kids it is nice to have some Me Time sometimes and it was really good fun. It is just Jamie and me today though with Taylor at school and Martin at work although I do feel if someone else is with us as Noddy seems to be spending the morning and probably the day with us as the DVD goes on for the second time!!!

Sorry can't stop for a photo, Noddys on!!

Oh OK you win!

MUFFIN MANIA

2007-09-23T04:08:00.000-07:00

Well as you can see having American relations has certainly rubbed off on both Taylor and Jamie who delighted in munching into these earlier today. Jamie's muffin is nearly as big as him!!

WOODLAND WALK AT THE VYNE

2007-09-17T08:19:00.000-07:00

Yesterday the sun was shining although it wasn't hot, it gave us an oppportunity to visit The Vyne a National Trust property near Basingstoke. The House and Gardens are set alongside the river and there are beautiful woodland walks.

We ventured out on the 1.4 mile walk and I just happened to mention that it would be good to pick up a few pine cones that we could then spray and put on the Xmas tree. Well Taylor picked a few but Jamie decided that he was going to empty the woodland of them!!! We filled the underneath of the buggy with them and he was delighted on his collection. Martin was not too happy that the back of his car late became part of the woodland. Still we had fun.!