If you’ve got a LEGO-mad kid (or you are the LEGO-mad one), this is the ultimate school-holiday adventure. We cannot wait to go and experience RELICS: A New World Rises with our family!
Created by former LEGO® Masters champions Jackson Harvey and Alex Towler, RELICS turns ordinary objects into extraordinary LEGO worlds. Imagine:
🔹 A fridge transformed into a cryogenic health resort 🔹 A typewriter running a bustling newspaper empire 🔹 A Volkswagen Beetle powering a futuristic energy revolution
Every build is packed with Minifigure mischief, playful storytelling, and tiny details that will have you looking twice… and smiling every time.
See It Before 26 January
This isn’t just another exhibition—RELICS closes on 26 January 2026, so now’s the time to plan your visit. With strong crowds expected over the school holidays, book early to make sure you don’t miss out!
RELICS Highlights
14 massive displays combining vintage objects with LEGO creations
Interactive LEGO build zone—create your own miniature worlds
Custom scavenger hunts for kids and adults alike
A futuristic story set in 2130, where LEGO societies rise from the remains of a human-free world
More to Explore at the Australian Museum
The fun doesn’t stop with RELICS! Over the summer holidays, the museum is also hosting two free spectacular photographic exhibitions:
Unfinished Business– the stories of 30 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people living with disabilities across Australia
Plus, visitors can explore the stunning permanent galleries: Dinosaurs, Minerals, Birds of Australia, and award-winning First Nations galleries including Garrigarrang, Wansolmoana, and the Burra play space.
A Story in Every Brick
Jackson and Alex have poured years into this passion project, giving every Minifigure its own story. The result? A playful, imaginative, and surprisingly thoughtful world you’ll get lost in—together as a family.
Don’t Miss Out
We cannot wait to explore RELICS with our family—and you shouldn’t miss it either. Bring your kids, bring your inner LEGO fan, and get ready to be amazed!
What: RELICS: A New World Rises exhibition Open now — closes 26 January 2026 Where: Australian Museum, 1 William St, Sydney NSW Exhibition Tickets: Adult: $29.00, Concession: $25.00, Child 4-15: $19.00, Child 0-3: Free
The Australian Museum offers free general admission and is open every day except Christmas Day (25 December). Tickets for RELICS are available now at australian.museum – strong demand is expected for the summer holidays. Gift cards for the exhibition are also available via the AM website.
The final stretch before the holidays is always a blur. With the clock ticking down, it’s hard not to daydream about the freedom that’s just around the corner. Read my full poem below, a different take on “Twas the Night Before Christmas”:
Twas The Night Before Holidays
Twas the night before the last day of work, and all through the place, Not a task was unfinished, not a deadline to chase. The emails were queued in the inbox with care, In hopes that tomorrow, none would be there.
The workers were nestled all snug at their desks, While visions of holidays freed them from stress. And I in my summer dress, and you in your tee, Knew the end was so near, it was hard not to flee.
When out on the street, there arose such a clatter, It was just the sound of a phone call that didn’t matter! I sprang from my seat to shut down my screen, And knew in a moment: it’s time for the dream!
The office was silent, the work almost done, Tomorrow’s the day that the holidays come. So here’s to the eve of our last work-filled night, Happy last day tomorrow—and to all, a good night! ✨🎉
Last Wednesday we were privileged to attend the premiere of Cirque du Soleil’s LUZIA. I remember when I was younger going to Cirque du Soleil shows with my mum and my sister, they were so magical and I wanted to share this with my children. One thing that is good about Cirque du Soleil is that it is a circus without animals.
About Cirque du Soleil?
In the early 1980s, a group of performers led by Gilles Ste-Croix showcased their talent on the streets of Baie-Saint-Paul, a picturesque village along the St. Laurent River near Quebec City. Initially known as Les Échassiers de Baie-Saint-Paul (The Stiltwalkers of Baie-Saint-Paul), this group became the foundation for what would later evolve into Cirque du Soleil. Learn more about the history of Cirque du Soleil on their website.
What is LUZIA About?
LUZIA is often described as a “waking dream of Mexico.” It takes audiences on a journey through vibrant landscapes. The show also features surreal settings and awe-inspiring acrobatics. The show includes everything from a cascading waterfall to jaw-dropping aerial acts. Each element is designed to transport you to a world where dreams meet reality.
The Running Woman – Photos: Matt Beard & Anne Colliard Costumes: Giovanna Buzzi Cirque du Soleil 2022
Discover the Magic: About Cirque du Soleil’s LUZIA
The show opens with a man (who is the clown of the show) falling from the sky, hinting at a daring leap from a plane. The roar of an engine fills the air as a powerful wind sweeps across the stage, sucking up his backpack and belongings, sending them straight to the top of the tent. Amid the chaos, he humorously deploys a tiny umbrella, somehow managing to land safely on the stage—a moment that earns plenty of laughs from the audience.
The clown turns the key and starts the show. Photos: Matt Beard & Anne Colliard Costumes: Giovanna Buzzi Cirque du Soleil 2022
As he regains his footing, he notices a massive key embedded in the stage. Curious, he looks around for its owner but finds no one. Turning the key unleashes a thunderous noise, setting off a chain reaction of movements and events that start the show.
Among his possessions is an empty metal water bottle, symbolising his desperate need for water. This quest becomes a recurring theme, cleverly interwoven into both the narrative and comedic skits throughout the show.
The show was broken into different acts and in between each act the man who is searching for water came along and did a skit or two to allow the other performers to set up for another performance.
Water displayed mesmerizing images. Photos: Matt Beard & Anne Colliard Costumes: Giovanna Buzzi Cirque du Soleil 2022
Photos: Matt Beard & Anne Colliard Costumes: Giovanna Buzzi Cirque du Soleil 2022
During the performances you were not sure where to look, there was so much amazing things going on, dance, acrobatics and just stunning costumes to look at, not to mention the amazing sets!
The LUZIA performance was a captivating display of acrobatics and stunning visuals, with one scene in particular reminding my children of a moment from the Madagascar 3 film. The act combining hoop diving with two giant treadmills was striking, as the acrobats leaped through hoops with remarkable precision, much like the scene in Madagascar where the circus tiger interacts with small hoops. The performers, balancing on the moving treadmills, effortlessly jumped through hoops in a variety of daring ways—sometimes feet first, sometimes backwards, and even leapfrogging over each other. It was a mesmerizing combination of agility and speed, creating the illusion that they were defying gravity, just like the acrobats in the movie performing with such ease and fluidity.
The Cyr Wheel and Trapeze act was equally mesmerizing. The performers danced through large, majestic hoops while a trapeze artist executed daring flips and aerial moves. The acrobat balancing on one heel, suspended in mid-air, was a particularly striking moment, adding a dreamlike quality to the performance.
Performers ready to jump through hoops and did it all on a treadmill. Photos: Matt Beard & Anne Colliard Costumes: Giovanna Buzzi Cirque du Soleil 2022
The performers who jumped through the hoops were fantastic. Photos: Matt Beard & Anne Colliard Costumes: Giovanna Buzzi Cirque du Soleil 2022
The Football Dance was another standout, with the performers skillfully manipulating soccer balls with their feet and heads. Their ability to bounce, roll, and spin the balls using only their bodies created a seamless and fluid performance, almost making the soccer balls appear as if they were floating in mid-air.
In the Aerial Straps act, the performer emerged from a cenote, interacting with a life-size jaguar puppet in a beautiful display of strength and grace. The performer rotated above the water, creating an ethereal moment that felt like they were gliding through space.
The Hand Balancing act was another remarkable highlight, where the artist balanced on flexible canes, gradually building the structure to an impressive height. The strength and control required to perform these feats was astounding, leaving the audience in awe as the artist maintained such challenging poses.
Hand balancing done in retro style. It was a tribute to Mexican cinema of the 1920’s. Photos: Matt Beard & Anne Colliard Costumes: Giovanna Buzzi Cirque du Soleil 2022
As for the Beach Clown scene, my youngest had the most amusing reaction when the clown finally found water in a pool, only for it to suddenly disappear. With wide eyes, they yelled, “How did that happen!” It was such a funny and unexpected moment, bringing a lighthearted touch to the show.
Hand Balancing looks so easy but this lifeguard was up 6 meters high. Photos: Matt Beard & Anne Colliard Costumes: Giovanna Buzzi Cirque du Soleil 2022
During one of the clown’s search for water, the water was actually flowing from behind him, and one kid from the audience yelled out, “It’s behind you!” The whole audience erupted in laughter at the perfect timing of the moment. The clown, ever so quick-witted, turned around and exaggerated his surprise with a playful expression, as if realizing it for the first time. He then comically gestured with his face and hands, giving the impression that he was pretending to be oblivious to the water behind him, as if asking, “Do you think I’m silly?” It was such a funny, spontaneous moment that had everyone in stitches, making it one of the highlights of the show! There was a hilarious moment with a poor man who kept trying to reach the water to fill up his bottle, but just as he got close, the water would stop flowing. As you might have guessed, the water would magically start flowing again… but only when he was nowhere near it! His attempts to outsmart the situation were absolutely priceless, as he would dash to a new spot, only for the water to follow him in the most unexpected way. His growing frustration and clever antics had the entire audience in stitches, making it one of the funniest parts of the show.
One of the most impressive moments in LUZIA was when an acrobat performed an aerial act where she was suspended solely by her hair. It was truly awe-inspiring to watch. I can’t even begin to imagine how strong and controlled you would have to be to pull off such a feat. The precision and power needed to balance in mid-air by just her hair were mind-blowing, and it left the entire audience in complete amazement. It was one of those moments that made you truly appreciate the incredible strength and discipline of the performers. Plus, how strong her hair must be to support her.
You Have to Go to Believe How Amazing It Is!
LUZIA is truly a must-see.
The show leaves you speechless, as you can’t help but stare in awe at the incredible talent of the performers. From the breathtaking acrobatics to the magical, otherworldly atmosphere, it’s an experience that transports you to a completely different realm. You find yourself sitting on the edge of your seat, watching these amazing people perform fantastical tricks, each one more mesmerizing than the last. It’s the kind of show that stays with you long after the final curtain call.
CYR WHEEL AND TRAPEZE Photos: Matt Beard & Anne Colliard Costumes: Giovanna Buzzi Cirque du Soleil 2022
This magnificent trapeze artist performs a series of original figures, sometimes hanging only by one heel. The performance culminates in the rain. Photos: Matt Beard & Anne Colliard Costumes: Giovanna Buzzi Cirque du Soleil 2022
The Entertainment Quarter is located at 122 Lang Road, Moore Park NSW 2010 (next to the Sydney Cricket Ground).
If you would like a map or other help about the venue then click here to learn more about The Entertainment Quarter.
Before the show, the kids and I had our photos taken.This time here is the whole family
A huge thank you to Cirque du Soleil for the tickets to LUZIA! It was an incredible night that left both the kids and adults in awe. The show was absolutely stunning, and we’re so grateful for the opportunity to experience it together as a family. It’s a memory we’ll cherish for a long time!
Oh, I nearly forgot, I grabbed t-shirts for the kids and myself—here’s a look at mine and one of theirs.
I thought this was so fun had to get it for the youngest.
This shirt made me smile so it won me over immediately. Yes, I do my own stunts.
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Years ago, I went to Cirque du Soleil shows with my mum, and I was completely enchanted. The magic was undeniable. Fast forward to 2023, and I took my youngest to Cirque du Soleil CRYSTAL while his big sisters and daddy were off overseas. It felt like the perfect chance for a special show together—and wow, it did not disappoint. From start to finish, it was mesmerizing! I found myself completely immersed in the performance, almost in a trance, as the acrobats and performers did feats that left me spellbound.
Now, here we are in 2024, and I’m gearing up for another jaw-dropping Cirque du Soleil experience with LUZIA. Bring on the magic!
Photos: Matt Beard & Anne Colliard Costumes: Giovanna Buzzi Cirque du Soleil 2022
We are super excited to attend the premiere show of Cirque du Soleil’s LUZIA. This event is happening on Wednesday, 27 November.
What is LUZIA about?
LUZIA is often described as a “waking dream of Mexico.” It takes audiences on a journey through vibrant landscapes. The show also features surreal settings and awe-inspiring acrobatics. The show includes everything from a cascading waterfall to jaw-dropping aerial acts. Each element is designed to transport you to a world where dreams meet reality. It looks absolutely magical—like stepping into worlds within worlds! I can’t wait to be whisked away on a fantastical journey to another land. What about you—ready to dive into the magic?
Photos: Matt Beard & Anne Colliard Costumes: Giovanna Buzzi Cirque du Soleil 2022
Photos: Matt Beard & Anne Colliard Costumes: Giovanna Buzzi Cirque du Soleil 2022
Fun Facts about LUZIA’s Big Top
Capacity: The Big Top seats more than 2,600 people—perfect for an unforgettable experience!
Set-Up Time: The entire site, including the Big Top, VIP Tents, and rehearsal spaces, is assembled in just 8 days.
Dimensions: The Big Top stands 19 meters (62 feet) high with a diameter of 51 meters (167 feet), supported by 4 steel masts that rise 25 meters (82 feet) tall.
Stability: Anchored by 550 pegs, the tent firmly covers 48,500 square feet of asphalt and can withstand winds up to 120 km/h (75 mph)!
International cast: The touring cast and crew include 115 people from 26 countries, showcasing a truely international collaboration. Among the 47 artists, 18 nationalities are represented, including talent from Australia, Canada, Mexico, Ukraine, and more.
How many jobs are involved: Behind the scenes, there are over 40 unique job titles ensuring the seamless production of the show.
Photos: Matt Beard & Anne Colliard Costumes: Giovanna Buzzi Cirque du Soleil 2022
The Big Top isn’t just a tent—it’s a travelling village, bringing the wonder of Cirque du Soleil to cities around the globe. Honestly, with everything it takes to pull off the show, it might as well be its own city!
Photos: Matt Beard & Anne Colliard Costumes: Giovanna Buzzi Cirque du Soleil 2022
This show is a school holiday dream! Snag some tickets, gather the family, and give them a surprise they’ll never forget!
Grab the details for tickets, venue and more!
Currently, there are all sorts of deals for tickets. You can snap up a 25% discount for Black Friday, grab a family offer for the whole family with 15% off or enjoy a night out offer for the purchase of 2 tickets with up to 15% off. Tickets are selling fast so make sure to grab them while you still see them.
The Entertainment Quarter is located at 122 Lang Road, Moore Park NSW 2010 (next to the Sydney Cricket Ground).
If you would like a map or other help about the venue then click here to learn more about The Entertainment Quarter.
Photos: Matt Beard & Anne Colliard Costumes: Giovanna Buzzi Cirque du Soleil 2022
Grab tickets for the family and let them experience the magic! It’s the perfect way to spark their love for theatre, acrobatics, and the arts—pure delight and inspiration all in one show.
A BIG thank you to Cirque du Soleil for the tickets for my family to attend the premiere. We feel very special attending the event and are really looking forward to the time together and to experience the show. I will let you know about all the fabulous things that you shouldn’t miss when you go, so stay tuned for more info soon!
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Note: I was so taken with the quality of Vuly and how Vuly trampolineskeep kids active and healthy. I’m an affiliate for Vuly, if you purchase any Vuly products from these links I get a little commission.
Keeping your kids entertained during the school holidays takes a little bit of imagination, creativity and (let’s face it) a dose of good luck!
Although our family tries to take regular outings to museums, theatres and even putt-putt – it’s not possible to do this every day. During our days at home, my kids need a little extra inspiration to stay away from computers and screens.
To my absolute delight, the kids spent hours outside enjoying their new trampoline. In fact, they simply loved it… and as a busy mum, so did I!
Whether it was challenging one another to jump the highest, or creating their own little tricks and gymnastic routines; the Ultra Medium Trampoline was a holiday hit.
There were countless occasions when the kids came running inside (laughing and out of breath,) asking me to judge their latest acrobatic feats! The trampoline also offered a fun way to include other kids from around the neighbourhood in our family’s holiday activities.
Personally, what I really love about having a trampoline is that I can be inside doing whatever I need to, while the kids are outside having fun in a safe environment.
For those parents who aren’t sure about the safety of trampolines, you need to take a look at Vuly Play. This Australian-based company prides itself on their state-of-the-art safety features and design quality. Vuly says they take safety seriously – and I tend to agree.
The Ultra Medium Trampoline includes a self-closing woven net ensuring kids can’t mistakenly jump out and has a true weight capacity of up to 150kgs. In addition, the springs of the trampoline are fully enclosed, with the entire trampoline designed to prevent contact with poles or any external parts of the structure.
My kids spent countless hours on the trampoline without any bumps or bruises!
Given Australia’s changing weather conditions, it was also important that our trampoline was made to last. Fortunately, the team from Vuly Play have thought of this too – and their trampolines are designed to be extra durable.
The Ultra Medium trampoline has been galvanised for rust resistance and has also been tested for performance in wet weather. Vuly trampolines have also undergone extensive testing to exceed Aussie manufacturing standards – and are easy to assemble with zero nuts or bolts. Our trampoline has already weathered a few storms, and it still looks brand new!
Note: Vuly sent us an Ultra Medium Trampoline to test out. The kids are obsessed with their new trampoline and hubby and I are pleased that it keeps all three kids occupied. Thanks so much, Vuly Play for sending us this amazing item.
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Photo by cottonbro studio: https://www.pexels.com/photo/childred-decorating-eggs-3972178/
Say goodbye to holiday boredom with Twinkl’s Epic Easter Adventures!
🌟 Dive into a wonderland of crafts, colours, science magic, and writing wonders that’ll keep kids of all ages smiling from ear to ear. 🎨🔬✏️ Discover the Joy of Learning with Twinkl’s Egg-citing Resources!
Join the Twinkl family today and unlock a world of fun and educational surprises that’ll make your kids think learning is the coolest game in town. 🚀 Don’t let boredom win this holiday—let Twinkl turn every moment into an Easter Extravaganza!
🐰🌷See a whole list of fun things below and get ready for an unforgettable Easter experience:
Photo by cottonbro studio: https://www.pexels.com/photo/childred-decorating-eggs-3972178/
Egg-cellent Easter Adventures Await with Twinkl’s Fun-Filled Activities!
Get ready to hop into the Easter Egg-stravaganza withTwinkl’s egg-cellent lineup of activitiesthat will make your celebration egg-ceptionally memorable! Whether you’re tracing patterns on Easter eggs or connecting the dots with bunnies, Twinkl’s got the creative juices flowing faster than a bunny on a sugar rush!
Feeling crafty? Dive into the Easter Bunny Basket crafting fun or leave Easter Bunny Footprints that will have everyone searching for the elusive bunny! And don’t forget to top it off with the Easter Hat Craft Activity Templates because every Easter celebration needs a touch of fabulousness!
If your brain’s craving a workout, dive into the Easter Differentiated Reading Comprehension Activity and hunt for Easter words like a pro in the F-2 Easter Word Search. Need a laugh? The Easter Joke Chatterbox is your go-to for egg-citing giggles and smiles!
With over 1,600 top-notch resources curated just for you, Twinkl ensures your Easter celebration is not just egg-straordinary but also egg-stremely fun and egg-ceptionally quirky! So grab your bunny ears and get ready for a cracking good time with Twinkl’s egg-citing lineup of Easter activities!
Hoppy Creations: Egg-citing Easter Hat Ideas & Templates from Twinkl!
Step into a world of egg-citement and Easter charm with Twinkl’s egg-stravagant collection of Easter Hat ideas and templates. Dive into a pool of creativity and let your imagination hop away with these whimsical designs that promise to make your Easter celebrations unforgettable.
Imagine donning an Aussie Easter Hat that with its vibrant colours and motifs, is guaranteed to turn heads and elicit smiles at every Easter gathering. With Twinkl’s Easter Hat Craft Activity Templates, you’re not just creating a hat; you’re crafting a piece of art that’s as unique and playful as the Easter bunny itself.
Feeling fancy? Add a touch of elegance with the EYLF Easter Bonnet Template Accessories, where delicate flowers, charming ribbons, and fancy embellishments transform a simple hat into a showstopper fit for an Easter parade runway!
But why stop there? Explore the world of bunnies with the Easter Bunny Headband and Bunny Ear Craft templates, perfect for adding a dash of whimsy and fun to your Easter attire. Whether you’re hunting for eggs or simply hopping around in style, these bunny-inspired accessories are sure to bring joy and laughter to your Easter festivities.
So, hop on over to Twinkl and unleash your inner Easter artist with their egg-citing collection of hats and templates. Get ready to egg-spress yourself in the most egg-ceptional way possible and make this Easter a truly egg-straordinary celebration!
Photo by cottonbro studio: https://www.pexels.com/photo/photo-of-colored-eggs-3972137/
Spark Your Curiosity: Egg-ceptional Easter Science Experiments!
Are you ready to dive into a world of Easter excitement and scientific wonder? Twinkl’s Easter Science Experiments are here to sprinkle some fun and fizz into your learning adventures! Picture this: bubbling magic potions that make you feel like a wizard, shrinking balloons that defy gravity, and day and night experiments that illuminate your understanding!
Get ready to unleash your inner scientist with Twinkl’s creative concoctions. From conduction ice cube challenges to making gloop that’s gooey and glorious, each experiment is a journey into a world of colourful discovery. Imagine falling paper experiments that dance like confetti and ice cream in a bag recipes that are as cool as they are delicious!
But wait, there’s more! Explore potato starch slime that’s squishy and stretchy, or dive into the fizzy fun of candy crystals. Whether you’re a budding scientist or a seasoned explorer of the unknown, Twinkl’s Easter Science Experiments have something egg-citing for everyone!
So grab your lab coat (or apron), gather your materials, and let the Easter Science adventure begin! It’s time to mix, measure, and marvel at the magic of science with Twinkl’s quirky, upbeat, and fun-filled experiments that will have you saying, “Egg-cellent!
Easter Handwriting Eggstravaganza
Whether you’re a teacher, parent, or eager learner, Twinklhas something special for you this Easter. Immerse yourself into a world of colourful activities, engaging games, and delightful Easter-themed handwriting practice that will make learning a joyous adventure.
📚 Explore Twinkl’s handpicked selection of “Handwriting Easter” resources designed to spark creativity and improve penmanship skills. From Easter-themed handwriting lines to playful tracing activities featuring bunnies, eggs, and festive patterns, there’s plenty to keep little hands busy and minds inspired.
🎨 Let imaginations run wild with Twinkl’s Easter pencil control and letter formation activity booklets, perfect for early years and primary school learners. Encourage mindfulness and creativity with celebrations-themed handwriting and colouring booklets that blend learning with fun.
🐣 Dive deeper into the art of cursive writing with Twinkl’s Journey to Cursive series, featuring Easter-themed practice activities tailored for different age groups. From lowercase alphabet tracing to continuous cursive challenges, students will embark on a journey of skillful penmanship.
🌟 Don’t miss out on Twinkl’s Easter portrait page borders, pattern tracing activities, and engaging pencil control worksheets designed to save the day with Easter-themed learning adventures.
📚 Can’t find what you’re looking for? Explore Twinkl’s treasure trove of over 14 “Handwriting Easter” resources and discover a world of educational delights for teachers, parents, and pupils alike. 🌟
Ready in his safety harness and helmetGetting fitted for his safety gearEnjoying the climbing fun
I wanted to take Alex somewhere fun, somewhere different from the usual park.
But where?
Why not Treetops Adventure at Western Sydney. You don’t have to visit the Western Sydney location, this is the one we visited. The Western Sydney Treetops are within the Western Sydney Parklands.
In fact, Treetops Adventures are available in 8 different locations in NSW, also in Victoria, Western Australia, Queensland and Tasmania.
I looked online for a great spot to take my active six-year-old and settled on Treetops adventure. I magically booked one of the last times for their adventures that day and of course, high-tailed it down the mountain to get there on time. I was however about 15 minutes late, but I soon discovered that was okay. Thank goodness for that!
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He had the safety rope on the course to make sure he was safe even if he fell
We were in time for my little boy to join a group of other kids, he just needed to get his harness fitted and wait for the group to have their safety induction and their guide to tell them the rules of what to do and of course not do. If they needed help there were staff there with their harness on ready to climb to help out.
At first, my little boy was a bit shocked we didn’t end up at the park he thought we were going to…however, I did tell him we were off on an adventure to do something different.
See our YouTube video of our Treetops Adventure
Balancing to make sure he has the edge
Brave and keen to climb all the courses
Alex grew his confidence with the different courses.
One course had my six-year-old fall off the timber or logs that were there. He did have a harness and was also strapped on with the metal safety line, so no worry about falling. However, losing his footing was a bit scary and I had to talk him through how to get back on the logs.
I did get the attention of one of the staff there and they were on their way and then Alex managed to sort it all out himself.
These ones move and Alex took a bit longer making sure he put his foot on the next one correctly
The courses that had moving logs or missing parts where you would put your feet made my little boy a bit worried at first, he did get the hang of how to work the ones that were moving and then with the ones that had missing parts he favoured the area that had more timber for him to stand.
Getting across the course slowly but surely
He also was very focused on what he was doing and how he managed each course.
When Alex got to the Ziplines he was able to take off the zip fitting and put it on the metal line for the zip adventure himself. He got really good at it and even though he fiddled a bit sometimes getting it off the metal rope he yelled at me that he didn’t need help, he would say very loudly “I don’t need help!”
Was a bit worried about the gaps and the logs…at least they don’t move
Got the hang of the net
This was a great decision to take my little one to Treetops Adventure at Western Sydney, he loved it. In fact, he really didn’t want to leave.
Having heaps of fun climbing
I now really would like to take the twins to experience more Treetops Adventures throughout Sydney. For all kids to do a park together I would need to have courses for the bigger kids and many courses for the younger person too.
If you are looking at an activity for the holidays, weekend or any time climbing at TreeTops is something I would highly recommend. Not only is it great for kids as they are outdoors, it helps with their confidence and problem-solving abilities it is also fun and different from your standard park.
Alex had never climbed at Treetops before and was racing around and doing the courses multiple times, he seemed to be an expert after doing it many many times!
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I love LEGO, my twin girls love LEGO and now my little boy loves LEGO.
We are also massive fans of Brickman. Who is also known as Ryan McNaught. Yes, his real name isn’t Brickman. And you probably wouldn’t be surprised to learn that I also watch LEGO Masters. Okay, so now you know it is a natural progression to have gone to the Brickman exhibit at The Australian Museum.
One exciting part of being in the city is catching trains. My little boy and I caught a train to Museum and the exhibit was a short walk from the station.
Alexander at Museum Station
Museum Station
Paddle Pop advertisement at Museum Station
Speedo Advertisement at Museum Station
We exited via Liverpool Street – Museum Station
Ready to go to see the Jurassic World Brickman Exhibit at The Australian Museum
Arriving at the Australian Museum
The exhibit was a secret surprise for my little boy, actually, it was a fun weekend with Mummy in the city.
About Jurassic World by Brickman
Dates: The exhibition is open until 17 July.
Location: The Australian Museum, Sydney, NSW 1 William Street Sydney NSW 2010 If travelling by public transport get off at Museum Station, it is only a short walk to the Australian Museum.
Tickets: Tickets for a family of 4 are $95 and you can book your tickets at Ticketek
Opening Hours: 10am – 5pm
The Jurassic World Brickman Exhibit features over 50 large-scale dinosaurs, props, scenes, and activities made from over 6 million LEGO® bricks. Plus, in a Sydney exclusive, the newest Jurassic World by Brickman® dinosaur will be unveiled. Weighing in at 400 kilograms, the Baryonyx is over 4.8 metres long and made up of 102,317 LEGO® bricks. Relive the magic of beloved stories and characters from the Jurassic World franchise, as you embark on a thrilling journey across the island – Isla Nublar.
Walk through the iconic gates of the park (all made out of LEGO) and experience the inner workings of the Jurassic Worldlab. Venture into the baby dinosaur enclosure, where a life-size Brachiosaurus weighing well over 1.8 tonnes awaits! Encounter incredible models of Triceratops, Velociraptors, T.rex, and many more.
There will be 2.5 million LEGO® bricks for you to show off your own building skills. Get hands-on with LEGO® brick paleontology, mystery mosaics, island-building, hybrid dinosaur creations, and much more.
Alex being cheeky touching the dinosaur
Run as fast you can! There is a HUGE dinosaur.
Run faster!
Alex is trying to run away… the dinosaur is still there
Running is not enough with this enormous LEGO dinosaur
More than two years and 10,000 build hours have gone into the creation of Jurassic World by Brickman®, making it the biggest exhibition the Brickman team has ever created. This is a not to be missed experience for kids and adults alike.
LEGO Jurassic Fossil
New Jurassic Film out soon
If you are a Jurassic World fan like I am you will be excited for the new Universal Pictures and Amblin Entertainmentfilm Jurassic World: Dominion debuts in cinemas in June 2022.
Jurassic World Brickman exhibit at the Australian Muesum
We had a blast at the exhibition. The dinosaurs and the world that was created were amazing and all out of LEGO. It must have taken ages and been hard work to create the signs, doors, lights, and of course life-like dinosaur statues.
It was fantastic that kids were able to be hands-on and get totally involved by creating their own LEGO pieces as well. Alexander spent hours creating his version of a Pterodactyl as well as some interesting art that was meant to be a dinosaur footprint but ended up being an artwork.
Be prepared to stay for hours longer for your LEGO-obsessed child to play with all the LEGO.
Getting hands-on with LEGOSo much to create in the Jurassic World with LEGOAlexander added his art to the wallThe art and footprints on the wallAll the LEGOAlex is proud of his art creation in LEGOCreating his artwork
Would you like to meet Brickman? How about having breakfast with the man? I wish we could have done this as well… the exhibit was amazing. However, learning a few tips and techniques to make my LEGO creations more fabulous ( I can dream right?)
Ryan ‘the Brickman’ McNaught. Image from the Australian Museum website
You can join Brickman for conversation and a Masterclass with the only LEGO® Certified Professional in the Southern Hemisphere- Ryan ‘the Brickman’ McNaught. Enjoy a light breakfast in Hintze Hall before gaining insights and tips in the Masterclass, as Ryan answers your questions and takes you through a range of fun activities. Explore Jurassic World by Brickman® and snap a selfie with the Brickman himself.
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Lately, I have felt frazzled. On edge, tired, annoyed, exhausted, overworked, too much to do, waiting for something to happen and then nothing does, upset, worried about money, worried full stop about everything, unable to do things I had planned, sad that I had to cancel plans that I was looking forward to and a lot of other things that I find I cannot name.
I think all these feelings have stemmed from the COVID Pandemic. As well lockdowns making sure that we are all stuck in a small house and the outcome means that there is no time for anything that I wish to do, or the space to do it, or the money to do it and when I might finally have time I am looking after kids and that means I cannot do my thing at all anyway, so I don’t bother. Yes, no time for me at all!
Sometimes I feel rather sad, miserable, and downright depressed. Sometimes I am feeling happy and upbeat, and then most of the time I am feeling downtrodden and ordinary.
I am getting up and doing what feels like five million jobs. I do a week’s work, and then do more work at night, to then have children argue with me about just helping around the house.
Normally I keep myself busy but for the last two years, I feel like I have been running a marathon non-stop and not getting a break.
Oh, what would I give for an all-expenses trip to a beach somewhere? On this beach, I would have a cocktail in my hand, and I would just be lying on the beach resting. Oh, there is that word, resting….
I have not had much of that lately. The good old downtime to rest. God knows when I have really rested. When I am resting, I am worrying about all the things that are yet to be done.
My weekends consist of being with kids and attempting to get a very messy house for the week ahead, and of course that comes with a tonne of clothes to wash, fold and ask that people put away, but they get added to the bedroom floor and then tossed around, thrown, and of course stomped on to then need washing again.
Geez…. Why can’t someone just do as I ask the first time!!!!!! Put the clothes away. Pick up the mess on the floor! C’mon you say, and all you get is yelling, moaning and doors being slammed in your face. So of course, you give up as all you wish to do is to rest and have a quiet house for a change, however that never happens.
Not sure if being frazzled is a medical term or a condition. Maybe it is a direct outcome of the COVID lockdowns and aftermath it has caused.
This is quite accurate.
You might have thought that it is all getting better in the world. Well, I thought so too. However, my car was recently stolen, driven terribly that it was practically falling apart and then set on fire. Yes, burnt everything down to the ground. If it hadn’t been for the weeks of non-stop rain the stupid horrible beasts and dickheads that took my car could have caused another bushfire. Yes, it was dumped and set on fire in the middle of the national park…. not smart but these are the idiots that steal cars so I guess they don’t think about that type of thing.
I bought the car before the four-month lockdown and have hardly driven it. It seems rather sad but also very ironic, that it is now gone. I did think that I caused the lockdown with my car purchase.
I am still very miserable about the loss of my car. I miss it. My car gave me independence, it allowed me to do whatever I wanted, and now it is gone. I have been fortunate to have good insurance so now I need to find a replacement. I just now need to do all the research I did the first time with my car that is no longer here anymore. Currently, I do have an idea of what I want but it is a bit out of reach now, and yes, another thing to be annoyed about!
Also, a new COVID variant making infections increase is not a good sign of what is to come. I do hope that we don’t have another lengthy lockdown. I could not handle work and home-schooling again. The only solution for this I believe is to lock things down again but personally, I don’t want that to happen either if we have too many more I wonder what the solution will be other than a lockdown?
Let’s just hope that we will still be able to travel in our state as the kids and I are really looking forward to visiting their Grandma and Grandad and also the beach. No offence to my in-laws but the kids, especially the youngest is hanging for the beach (they are excited to see their grandparents but the beach is the highlight at the moment) and I am right there with them. I think we need it after being cooped up not being able to travel.
My fix for feeling frazzled is a holiday (It would be nice to have a little holiday on my own as that would allow for less frazzle). A holiday where I can rest, not worry, just be and finally relax. However, this holiday is coming soon, it is still a while away yet and one that will be greatly welcomed.
I am sure I am not the only one feeling frazzled this year. Have you been feeling all mixed up lately? Is it a feeling of being frazzled and on edge? I feel like this year has just piled more terrible things on top of each other that you just shrug your shoulders and say, of course, yes it makes sense that would happen.
After I am done with work, I need to really focus on getting organised for Christmas. I have the gifts but need to wrap them and loads more to be all good to go for Christmas Day. I just want to be finally done for a bit and put my feet up for a bit longer than 5 minutes, I am sure you know what I mean.
So, as you can see 2021 has been a HUGE year, and I am sure you are in a similar situation. It would be nice to have a bit more luck in 2022 and for the car and holiday gods to smile on me in 2022.
I’ve now put my out of office on and I am officially on holiday! Let the relaxing begin.
Let me know how you are going? Have you been feeling frazzled too?
Last Thursday (16th of January 2020) I took Alexander to see the stage show of “The Snail and The Whale”, the show ended on the 21st of January.
The stage for the show The Snail and The Whale at the Opera House.
I wanted to expose Alexander to more theatre and something that would be just for him and not his sisters.
I purchased the tickets and then decided to get the book of the Snail and the Whale by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. It is an award-winning picture book, and like the rest of their work, it is fun and has wonderful pictures.
Alexander told me that there is a fire truck on stage.. not a real one, it was a toy. Alexander loves fire trucks.
Alexander takes a while to warm up to new books and when I originally got him Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s Stick Man he took a year for him to become interested and then obsessed with Stick Man, and this followed with the Gruffalo, Zog the Flying Doctors and I thought it would continue with The Snail and the Whale.
The book of the Snail and the Whale was given to Alexander for his Christmas present and he was interested but lost interest after about 2-3 pages. I read it to him nightly and we managed to the end a few times. I thought I was winning as Alexander didn’t know that he was going to see the stage show of the same book.
I had no idea what the show would be like, but thought it might follow the book. It did, but with the injection of Father and Daughter characters that told the story of the snail and the whale.
The snail was represented by a stuffed toy and also some wooden models, and the whale creativity came into being after the cast maneuvered the bed, bookcase, and armchair to create the whale.
There were a few times where they wanted audience participation and some pantomime fun too. The kids were busy yelling, screaming and laughing about where the daughter was hiding and to great glee pointing out where she was hiding to the Dad.
I think that this show was just the right length for my little boy, however, there were moments that Alexander seemed more taken with his seat and straddling the armrests like he was a gymnast and balancing on the top of the seat before it gets put down. (these are the seats that rise up if you are not sitting on them. He thought this was rather entertaining.
Alexander waiting for the show to start. We were getting excited to see The Snail and The Whale.
For my little boy, he loved the action and the fun of the kids yelling to the actors, and some of the story. However, I think he is a little young to take in the story, it needs to be more action-packed for my little person.
I did note that other kids of similar ages sat very well and were not doing tricks on their chairs like mine was. Maybe it was his age, maybe it is just getting used to the theatre or needing to have a show that is more action-packed for my little boy that he was a little bit fidgety. I am not sure…. but I think it was a good experience for him to be there.
Mummy and Alexander enjoying the harbour
So what did I think?
I thought that the way they brought the story to the stage was interesting with the inclusion of the Father and Daughter characters, but for little kids maybe it was too much dialogue. I know it is based on the book and the words and some parts were directly taken from the Snail and the Whale, however maybe for future it could be more visual and action-packed.
I liked how the cast involved the audience with some dancing and games, and of course when the kids were yelling at the cast about where each person was extremely fun (Alexander loved this and couldn’t stop laughing and smiling at me during this section of the show).
Before the show, Alexander and I had a drink and a bite to eat at the Opera Bar. He had honey toast and bacon, while I had a coffee and some toast.
Relaxing at the Opera Bar, Sydney.
Alexander was very happy after food, if he doesn’t’ eat regularly he is a very grumpy person. Having a happy and fed kid before a show at the Opera House was key.
Enjoying some bacon before the show at the Opera Bar, Opera House, Sydney.
While we were eating at the Opera Bar, Alexander noticed the water slide on the top of a cruise ship that was in the harbour. He was super excited about it. He then told me, “Mumma after the show we are going on the slide”
The cruise ship that Alexander wanted to go on. Geez, I just got tickets to a show at the Opera House and now this kid wants to go on a cruise.
I then tried to explain that we cannot go on this water slide. He said, “We can Mumma!” I said that only people that paid to go on the big cruise ship can go on this slide, and said that maybe one day we can go on a cruise and then we can play on the slide.
The slide Alexander wanted to go on..however, it was on a cruise ship and we were not passengers.
After seeing The Snail and the Whale there was some free play at the Opera House. There were heaps of pool noodles with connectors for kids to push and to attach into wooden holes. Alexander loved this. He spent ages connecting noodles together and even moved things together to attach different groups together.
Free creative noodle play at the Opera House.
I think Alexander loved his time in the city and I hope that he enjoyed his theatre experience.
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Chinese New Year is nearly here, and one great way to get kids involved is with craft.
Example of what the Year of the Rat lantern looks like – download yours now
I’ve updated my printable Chinese lantern for The Year of the Rat! Yes now, you can have your house decorated with these cute little lanterns that your kids created.
All you need to do is to sign up with your email address, once confirmed your PDF download will be instantly sent to you. It’s that easy!
I hope you enjoy this printable.
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It’s school holidays and I’ve been keeping kids busy, and therefore it keeps me busy.
I’ve set up playdates, taken the twins to a birthday party, we’ve gone out to brunch and then looked at shops, the kids and I went to the city to visit the Australian Museum and walked around the city, oh and we’ve also had some time at home.
Our trip to the city was meant to be fun, well part of it was. However, it went really wrong…actually a lot wrong!
So I took the kids to a science workshop about the moon and space (It is coming up the 50th anniversary of the moon landing, plus all 3 kids are super interested in the planets, the moon and space). We were early to the show and got some good seats so that we could all see, however my youngest didn’t want to sit down and was annoyed at the whole thought of sitting on his assigned seat.
The show started and my little boy still couldn’t sit still. Geez, this is going to be a long hour of my life. He finally sat down but not in his seat, Alexander found a little gap between Julia’s seat and a very old door. While my distracting little boy was sitting in his chosen non-seat he leaned on this antique looking door and it opened. Yes, it opened! We closed the door and this crisis of finding a mystery door was over.
Now that the door was closed and the show was in full swing, my little boy did a horrible pooh! There were about 30mins left of the show and I hoped that it would be okay, but the little girl behind us was telling her mum that something smelt bad and she was right, it was getting worse. I managed to leave the show with Alexander, the nappy bag and changed him.
Alex and I waited outside while the girls were still in the show, once they came out we got some snacks and then went to explore the Australian Museum.
We saw dinosaur bones, birds, crocodiles, koalas, artwork, photographs and so much more. Alexander kept on saying that he wanted to see creatures. I think he was happy we saw all the interesting animals and exhibits at the Museum. Plus the workshop about the moon and space was fun said the twins.
After we did the Australian Museum the kids and I explored Hyde Park. We managed to navigate our way through the crowds to find some food, finally got food but due to kids not being able to hold all the food and drink I tried to help…helping ended up making one drink fall on the ground and it was Alexander’s. This led to a tantrum about the fact that his drink was ruined and then wanted another.
I didn’t get another drink due to huge lines to get food. It really wasn’t ruined, just the cup was a bit bent.
We all looked around for a seat but couldn’t find any, we finally found a place to sit and spoiler alert we sat next to a lady reading a book and another trying to do work on her laptop, but had to leave in hurry due to out of control kids.
So we found seats next to lovely ladies who were super busy with own things (a book and a laptop), I was very happy that we could sit and finally eat. I got stuck into my chicken wrap and the twins and Alexander had a slushie each, although one kid had a drink that he didn’t want as he thought it was broken and horrible. He kept on screaming at the top of his lungs that he wanted his sisters, and then she screamed loudly that she would not give it to him. He then tried to throw things and hurt his sister and possibly others around him. It was hard to eat and control the chaos at the same time.
The screaming and disaster didn’t end. The nuggets that I purchased ended up on the ground and then my little boy kept on walking in the tomato sauce. Oh gee, wonderful!
I made all kids get up and apologised to the lovely ladies who were really trying to have some quiet time on their lunch break. Kids bundled up and still yelling about their drinks and the fact mummy was not getting a replacement was on constant rotation during our walk back through Hyde Park to get back to the car.
A fun trip to the city was overshadowed by horrible behaviour. I was so relieved to be in the car and on our way back home.
It does make me question why I take anyone anywhere.
I think the trip to the museum made an impact with Alex, he has been telling daddy about all the creatures he saw and what it was like. He has also told some ladies at the childcare centre about his day at the museum.
Have you taken kids to a planned outing to have it go wrong? What happened with you?
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How are you going? Are you surviving the school holidays? I have had moments when it has all gone to hell and I’ve wanted to run to the hills and not come back for a while.
However, even with the annoyance and angst, I’ve been trying to embrace the holiday spirit and my mantra for this year…be happier.
I’ve been spending more time with the kids and family, hence why I haven’t posted recently. Sorry for the lack of updates.
I have been taking the kids to parks, movies, organising play dates, parties, sleepovers, I got tickets so kids can do some science at the local botanic gardens and much more!
One thing that is doing my head in is the arguments and one-upmanship between the twins. It is really annoying, exhausting and frustrating to say the least. Are you in the same boat with your kids?
Do you find that a good stiff drink is in order after a tumultuous session with the kids not hearing anything you say? Oh, and when no one answers your questions, even when they are right next to you!
Even with the frustrations that holidays bring it has been relaxing and happy experience. We have spent time with friends and family and also managed to have a sleep in on a few days (So this is a win in my book).
Alexander had his birthday party and is now a three-year-old. He was very happy that his two mates from childcare could come to his party, and it was so adorable to see all three of them play in the park with each other. Three cute little people taking walks and chatting and playing amongst themselves, they were super busy doing important playthings.
I still cannot believe the girls will be entering grade 5 soon, they are getting so grown up and soon primary will be finished for both of them. Only this year and next and then they are off to high school.
Hope you’re having a good break and spending some fun time with family these school holidays. If you are having painful moments like me, I hope that they don’t last long or you can get a break for a bit.
Coming up next on the blog is are my tales of helping two ten years old’s with their new Harry Potter LEGO sets, it was a long, exhausting, frustrating and at times rewarding experience. It really ends up as a tale of woe from all sides. I’m sure all mums and dads that have tried to assist a child with LEGO will understand the ups and downs of this fine line you walk between taking over or just helping.
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I'm beyond tired and really would love to sleep for a month or two.
Tomorrow the twins go back to school. Insert happy dance. Maybe a HUGE boogie-woogie.
Yep, the start of term three is nearly here. I’m so tired due to the last few weeks.
There was always something on and therefore to drive to. If we weren’t driving to places it was days out and fun with other kids and parents too.
I want to sleep like this cat. Wish I could just curl up when I wanted and have a sleep.
Last week had five days out of the house, the week before we had three days out of the house.
Some of the things we did were:
Did Science workshops at Mt Tomah Gardens
Had playdates with some of the kid’s friends
Drove to visit family (they live far away so it took 2.5 hours each way, so 5 hours of driving)
Visited the Way Out West Festival (WOW) and then visited a good friend the same day
Attended the Robogals STEM workshops at New South Wales University
Went swimming and played at an indoor play centre
My plan for the school holidays was to relax and to stay at home more.
I had a vision of just staying in my pj’s and not having to be anywhere or do anything in particular.
One insane thought was to get the house tidier, organised and remove clutter during the holidays. I hear you all laughing at me very loudly and with bad snorting to boot! I, of course, didn’t any tidying done or making the house look more organised.
Nope, it did not happen. I did try and the twins room got a big tidy up, bags of clothes and toys were given away, many other bags ended up in the bin and more room was created. However, this cleaning of one room took two days, required constant supervision and reminding the kids of what they were doing. Oh, the energy really was zapped from my being.
You might think after losing hours of my life in a feral cave of mess that finally managed to be tidy after over 48 hours it would be brilliant now.
Well, I kid you not it is like we never touched it. It is a huge mess yet again.
I’m beyond tired and really would love to sleep for a month or two.
I am so tired, my cells are aching, and my body is throbbing.
I could close my eyes and sleep for a month. I know that school going back is great but more running around will happen.
School drop offs, pick ups, after school activities, getting kids to do homework and more.
Kids get holidays, but mummy rarely does. Actually, I don’t get any holidays! I need one now to recharge from our hectic few weeks.
Did you have relaxing school holidays? I close my eyes and dream a relaxing holiday…possibly Fiji, Europe, Bali, Thailand? Who knows.
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School is back and part of me is still wishing we were on holidays. I am finding that I’m so tired I have to remind myself what day it is so that I don’t sleep in and think it is still the weekend. I personally just want to sleep in and say bugger it and have a day or two off.
Don’t get me wrong…I do love the fact that the kids are at school and I get a break.
However, school term means that after-school activities have started again.
Coordinating everything and getting all kids to where they need to be is a full-time job. Another negative of racing around means that mummy is always exhausted.
This what I would rather be doing. Relaxing and doing nothing in particular. Time out for mummy!
School means that I need to make lunches, drop kids at school and also pick up.
Holidays were good as I didn’t have to be anywhere in a hurry.
I didn’t have to be up at a certain time for school to start or to pick up when school was over.
Holidays also means that there are no extra circular things to take kids too. I can just be home and not go anywhere unless I want to or I suppose need to.
It’s a pity that you cannot combine the good things about the holidays and school term in one.
I know this is a hard ask and really quite impossible but it is a nice idea. Don’t you think so?
I’ve had a very busy school holiday break. Kids were always doing something, friends came over, we visited other friends, the family visited, kids visited family, and we went out as a family.
Now school has gone back I’m still racing around like a mad person for everyone else.
I did hope that with my first day off that I would get a chance to do some long waited for things for me. I even signed up for a webinar for my first kid-free day.
This kid-free day was not to be, I had to take the twins into the city for the first afternoon back at school. No day off for me just yet.
I know I have had 1 true day off and that was great, but I still had to be up at the crack of dawn to organise kids to being at care, so I could be at my function. Still exhausted and drooling over just sitting and do nothing for a while.
However I was lucky to manage to get some nice kid free time while at the Bloggers Brunch last Friday. Although kids did try and make sure they were with me via hurting themselves the night before. They were all good to go to school and care, and I was happy to be able to network and be on my own finally.
Yes, I’m a whinger for saying I haven’t had a break and in fact I have had 1 day off so far, but although that was a day off for me it was not really 100% relaxing. I still had to be up super early to get kids to care to allow me to attend my function, and I still had to pick them up and make and organise dinner for everyone although I was late home.
Do you wish you could have the good things from the holidays while kids still went to school? Am I the only one that is thinking this? Let me know via a comment on this post.
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The other weekend hubby and I went away for the weekend.
It was a lovely escape to the city for just the two of us.
No kids were coming!
Yes, you read that right, we finally got alone time.
Before I went away for this magical alone time (well not completely alone, I would be with hubby) I was telling another mum at the school about getting some time away for just us. She was very happy that we were finally getting away. She was as excited as I was.
This other mum then told me that in May that she is off all by herself to a retreat in Bali. Yes, she is going to a different country for a full week all by herself. This mum also has three kids and is desperate for a break also.
My dream holiday alone.
I was happy about our trip away for the weekend, but found myself rather envious of this mum’s trip. I wanted to do the same! Maybe one day???? (I was excited for my friend too, and thrilled she was getting some rest and relaxation)
In the news was an article about another mum that books herself into a hotel twice a year. She does this alone! Yes another person going away all by herself! I read this article before I heard about my mate’s trip to Bali.
The article from Essential Kidssaid that having a break by yourself makes this mum a better parent. I am sure time alone would help any busy parent.
I have caught myself drooling over holidays, trips away, having fantasies about sitting on the beach sipping my cocktail while the kids are entertained in a kids club.
I would just be content in having a holiday at home as long as the following happened; I could sleep in, I would be able to do my own projects and the house was quiet. I think to get my wish list travelling somewhere else might be necessary.
The weekend away with hubby was nice and relaxing. We had a lovely dinner out on Friday night, and finally eating at a new trendy restaurant. It was a nice change to not have to factor in if the food will be okay for kids before we book for dinner.
Not being on call for others was nice, no yelling, nobody saying mumma all the time, or yelling mummy at the top of their lungs. No fights to break up and no issues to deal with. Rather peaceful actually.
Once we got home the tension in my neck and jaw started to set in. The kids started arguing, I found out they hadn’t been very good on the day we came home and then they started harassing me again about everything and nothing.
It did feel like I hadn’t been away at all.
Maybe I need to go away for more than two nights?
I think I need to look into a Bali retreat like my other friend has done. Would a week somewhere relaxing make me feel better?
Would coming home to energetic kids bring all the tension back instantly? I seriously need to look at a week long retreat somewhere…..send in ideas people!
I know the kids were excited to see me and hubby, and this is a nice thing. Cuddles, kisses and more were greatly appreciated. The only thing that I can live without is the chaos.
Do you have time out on your own? If so has it helped you to have more energy and feel better?
Being a full time mum and carer to three kids is exhausting. Any other job you get a holiday, however being a parent there is no sick leave, holidays or breaks.
Down time is needed, but for some a night out or weekend away might the only break they get.
I have managed to be away for a few nights for a blogging conference, basically just a weekend away and then back to mummy duties.
Are you able to manage time away just for you?
How long have you been away for? How did the kids cope without you, were they happy when you were home?
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I hope you all have a wonderful time with family and friends this Christmas.
We are having some fun with family and spending time doing absolutely nothing for a bit.
The twins are super excited about Santa and of course Christmas as a whole. Are your kids wondering what they might get on Christmas Day? Mine are and trying to find out.
Enjoy the holidays and I hope that 2018 is a fabulous year for everyone.
Merry Christmas!
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Woofy Whoops is a dog who desperately needs to go to the toilet.
Each player takes turns spinning Woofy around and whoever he lands on has to pat him according to how many times he barks. You might need to pat him once, twice or maybe more.
You need to be careful as the last pat might mean you are the one that gets wee’d on. Thank goodness it is really only water (just pretend)
How to play Woofy Whoops.
I was not sure about the idea of a game that has a dog wee on you but thought we would give it a go. The twins love the game and so did their mates that came over during the school holidays.
All the kids were giggling and wondering when or if they would be the one to get wee’d on…. yes it was funny to watch.
Isn’t it always the way… kids like something that is naughty.
Woofy Whopps looks innocent, but he might wee on you so be careful!
You need to download the Woofy Whoops App
The game works with an iPhone or Android phones. Plug in for the kids to hear the sound.
With the app, you are able to record and save video of when Woofy Whoops does actually pee on a player. The faces are priceless when this happens.
When the game replays a video of a player it is called a “wee play.”
Includes fire hydrant water tank, spinning Woofy and free Woofy Whoops app
App determines at random who will get sprayed and features funny animation
App records the moment you get ‘peed’ on in hilarious slow motion
iPhone and Android compatible – requires operating software iOS 9 or later for Apple devices and 4.3 or above for devices for Android.
Multiplayer
3 x AA batteries required
Watch Lillian and Julia have fun playing Woofy Whoops
Personally I was not sure about the game. I was worried that the kids might see that dogs weeing on them is a good thing. They both know that this is just pretending and of course would not want this to happen in real life.
I was willing to test this game out and have realised that the kids actually enjoy it and love playing it with friends.
Having warmer weather is a help with this game as well since you get wet in the process.
Woofy Whoops can be played indoors and outside as well. Due to space constraints at my house and making sure there was no water everywhere we set it up in the garden. (Music is over the video of the girls due to so many cicadas chirping and making it hard to hear anything)
If you wish to get the kids something different for Christmas this game is something to think about.
Thanks to Childsmart, Australia’s leading distributors of quality kid’s toys, nursery and lifestyle products for sending me Woofy Whoops by Worlds Apart to test out. The kids had a blast and cannot wait to test out other toys.
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Photos: Matt Beard & Anne Colliard
