The London Mummy, Author at The London Mummy

Events

8 Christmas Shows For Children (2 – 18)

There are some spectacles in London this Christmas. I have avoided the dancing on ice kind of shows and have suggested some shows that are suitable for children (see age recommendation) and performances that you will happily sit through too.

Read and book soon!

Cinderella at Chiswick House

16th – 31st December

A beautiful modern take on the classic in a stunning setting. 4+

The Red Shoes at Sadlers Wells

6th – 30th December

Most hotly anticipated ballet this season. 8+

Peter Pan at The National Theatre

24th November – 29th December

This Peter Pan is a riot of magic, mischief, music and make-believe, exploring the possibilities and pain of growing up. 7+

The Little Match Girl & Other Happier Tales at The Globe Theatre

24th November – 22nd January

For adults and brave children alike, expect music, puppetry, dark magic… and perhaps some modern truths that we would all rather remain hidden.

The Very Hungry Caterpillar at The Ambassador Theatre

2nd December – 7th January

This is my pick as it is age appropriate for my team and they are all familiar with the book. (Who isn’t – it’s almost a classic now)

Big Sing Christmas Carols at The Royal Opera House

Thursday 15th December, 7.15pm

Spice up your Christmas and warm up those vocal chords in this interactive singing session to find your voice and practice your favourite carols before Christmas Day! 14+

Father Christmas at The Royal Albert Hall

6th- 22nd December

Go on a magical adventure through the Royal Albert Hall, led by a captivating Victorian doorkeeper who knows all of the Hall’s secrets. Together you will solve puzzles and follow clues to find the key to Father Christmas’s grotto, where a wonderful visit awaits!

Children of all ages will be delighted by this interactive festive experience. 2+

Father Christmas & Paddington Bears First Concert at Cadogan Hall

22nd December (2 performances)

A good introduction to listening classical music with a fun and varied program.

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Gift Guides

15 Gift Ideas For Your Au Pair

Kicking off The London Mummy Christmas Gift Guides are ideas for your Nanny or Au Pair.

If you value them (which you should – bxxxxy hard job don’t you think?) they deserve something that is thoughtful and shows your appreciation for them.

Whether they have been with you a month or a year, here are some fab ideas!

Moroccan Beach Basket from Mymia £35

These are great for all their miscellaneous belongings and it also looks super sweet and can double up as a ‘playground’ bag in the summer.

Dasher Hair Ties from Millie Pink £8

If you are pulling together a few bits for them, be sure to include these gorgeous festive hair ties from Mille Pink. Also make great arm candy.

Flamingo Cushion from Poppy & Honesty £35

This handmade flamingo from Poppy & Honesty is lovely and will be a lasting present once they move on. (Sob)

Luxury Beauty Cracker from The Vintage Cosmetic Company £9

Who doesn’t love a cracker? Filed with beauty treats, this would be lovely for them to pull on Christmas Day.

London Skyline Wallet from Accessorize £19

This spacious wallet will be sure to impress their friends back home.

Save The Children Christmas Jumper from The Fmly Store £45

If you are giving them a present that they will open before Christmas (as perhaps they are flying home and want to travel lightly) this Christmas jumper is not only gorgeous, profits go to Save The Children. Win Win.

Birchbox Subscription £30 for 3 months

5 full size beauty products each month. I actually want this… Perhaps we could share!

Ear Jacket from Marta Frisnes £46

If you aren’t familiar with Marta Frisnes, her jewellery is stunning. This cool ear jacket typifies that she is a frontrunner of this years trends. If they are slightly edgy, give them this, they won’t know what’s hit them!

Early Throw from Sheridan Australia £79

If they are from warmer climates, the arctic air that has suddenly hit us will be a shock to the system. Keep them warm this winter with this lovely soft, knitted wool blanket from Sheridan. They also of lovely Duvet Sets.

Paddington Guide To London from Wordery £6

This is a great guide and fab as an introduction to the popular sights of London. Easy to use and clearly laid out, every house should have one of these in their book shelves.

A Spa Experience from Buyagift.com £55

The voucher comes in a beautiful gift box, and with thousands of different experiences across the whole on England, they can swap to something else if they aren’t keen on what you have bought them!

Brownie Gift Box from Sugarella from £10

No doubt the best brownies I have ever tasted and the packaging is gorgeous too. Perfect to take back to their homeland too.

Original Green Hunter Boots £90

I bought these for three consecutive (Spanish) au pairs at Christmas. Well, they did ask! They loved that they were ‘traditionally English’ and perfect for the wet weather.

Personalised Leather Wrap Dice Bracelet from Merci Maman £49

If your nanny really loves your children (!) get them this bracelet with each initial on it.

Lit Fabulous Plaque from Next £40

If you find it hard to tell them how much you value them, show them with this battery operated wall hanging from Next. Next also do lots of different wall lights, including the popular box lights where you can change the words around. Worth a look!

I hope this has helped. A nicely written card is also a good addition to a present. After all, you want them to comeback after Christmas!!!

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Activities Food Places

Mummy & Mini Tea, Urban Meadow Cafe

Last Sunday the kids had a fab time at the Princess Diana Memorial playground in Kensington Gardens, Hyde Park. A little tip if you are heading there – I didn’t realise you weren’t allowed in the playground without kids with you, so after letting the rest of them go on ahead (I was taking photos…) I was stumped when they wouldn’t let me in! Don’t make the same mistake…

Once we were reunited and the tummies started rumbling, we hopped across Bayswater Road (lots of pay and display parking btw) to Urban Meadow Cafe for a special family afternoon tea that they are currently offering, Mummy & Mini Tea.

Urban Meadow is a cafe/bistro attached to the Double Tree Hilton Hotel. The entrance is spacious and there are lots of outdoor tables as Urban Meadow attracts a lot of dog walkers and there are heaters and water bowl for your fury friend. Here is a little video.

[embedyt] http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pskMkek7ISY[/embedyt]

We were greeted by friendly staff who showed us to our table and gave us the Mummy & Mini Tea menu. The interiors are slightly American Diner meets Daylesford!

We ordered 2 adult teas and 3 children’s. The food arrived quickly so there was little time to crack on with the craft packs that they gave the children – not that they minded when they saw the cupcakes! To our delight we were each given a small wicker basket with our tea in, including scones and clotted cream!

It was a tasty as it looks and everyone likes food served a novel way! What a lovely way to finish off the weekend.

Rating 0-5

Ambience : 3 It wasn’t very busy as it was their quietest time of day and they were clearing tables before the rush of dinner guests, so the atmosphere wasn’t electric.

Service : 4 At the beginning the service was a bit slow, but once the kids started kicking off and there were a few tuts from the other patrons, the service hotted up and we were served like kings!

Value : 4 All fed for £30. Not bad! There was so much food it doubled up as the kids tea.

Taste : 4 Soft & tasty sandwiches & large selection of specialist teas.

Overall : 4 It is a great place if you are in the area. Next time you are in Hyde Park and fancy something to eat, don’t go to the cafe’s in the park #ripoff, head to Urban Meadow Cafe. It is a lovely family outing or also a great place to go with friends (or your dog) midweek. We will definitely visit again!

urbanmeadowcafe.com

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Family Life

Life Passing You By

Last night, I was reminded by John Lennon’s famous life quote…

It resonated. A lot.

At drop off this morning, first day back after half term, the standard response was to ‘How was your half term?’ was a mix between ‘hectic, busy and exhausting.’

So as the pace is going to hot up in the run up to Christmas, here are Olivia Read’s top tips for slowing down so we can really appreciate life. (Read Olivia’s Spotlight on The London Mummy)

PICK THREE that resonate with you the most and commit to taking action on them TODAY!

DO LESS: In our many roles at home and work, we have a zillion commitments every day. Rather than running around like loopy chickens, we need to take back control. Prioritise what’s really important and what you can let go of. Learn to say no or to delegate. Doing less will actually make you more productive.

SWITCH OFF: Most of us can admit to having an unhealthy attachment to technology. Despite endless studies showing the negative effects this has on us emotionally and on our sleep quality, it seems we’re unable to switch off. Our brains are over-loaded and need downtime. Set yourself a no-screen rule 90 mins before bedtime: no checking emails and no social media.

SPACE: London-living can be overwhelming at times. We need regular space and a hit of nature to replenish us. Creating 20mins of space a day around you and your life will rejuvenate your spirit. Read a book, find a quiet haven for your lunch, meditate – whatever appeals to you but ideally spend that time outside, surrounded in greenery. Study after study shows the positive effects that nature has on our emotional and physical well-being.

DISRUPT: Our lives can be spent doing the same things day in day out. These daily routines and rituals force the weeks to drift by unnoticed as autopilot takes over. Disrupt this process and heighten your consciousness by doing something new. Try taking an alternative, more scenic commute home twice a week or explore a new neighbourhood next time you’re out for dinner.

SINGLE-TASK: We’re a generation of multi-taskers and while it’s easy to think we’re rather efficient, in reality it’s chaotic, stressful and ultimately less productive. Our brains simply aren’t capable of focusing on too many tasks at once. Plan your day into 60min blocks interspersed with short 15min breaks for urgent stuff that’s cropped up and a brain dump. During the longer blocks, switch off all notifications so you can focus wholly on what’s in front of you.

HYGGE: Frequently topping the world’s happiness polls, the Danes could teach us a thing or two. Hygge is their concept of living cosily, appreciating the small things in life with good people. As the nights draw in, embrace winter by hunkering down with friends and family who make you feel whole and rooted. Reconnect with your favourite people and enjoy the simple life.

BE GRATEFUL: It’s easy to lose perspective on the important things in life when we’re busying ourselves with the daily grind. Get some perspective back by creating a daily list every morning of 5 things that you’re thankful for in your life. The simple act will slow you down, quieten the background noise and kick-start your day positively.

BE PRESENT: We spend so much time planning for the future or ruminating over the past, that the present passes us by. By engaging in the here and now, we can experience life to its full. Mindfulness takes practice but you can start with small steps. Commit to being fully present in at least 3 activities a day: a meal, bedtime stories with the children, a work meeting, the playground. No phones, no laptops, a clear mind and enter whole-heartedly into the moment.

BREATHE: When you find yourself speeding up and the stress levels rising, pause and take a deep breath, holding it for 10 seconds. It’ll change the chemistry in your brain, reducing cortisol levels and boosting serotonin levels. Doing this for 10mins a day will help you handle stress more effectively and improve your overall well-being.

SET A GOAL: With our energy focused on a million other things, the days can drift by without any clear direction. Life’s driving us rather than the other way round. We’ve lost sight of what we want in life, our goals. Set yourself a 2-month goal and an action plan for achieving it. The goal will give you purpose and motivate you out of the everyday.

Oliviaread.com

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TLM Monthly Edit

TLM Monthly Edit : October 2016

Hope you are having a lovely half term and found a few pumpkin related activities in the run up to Halloween. We are heading to Garsons Farm Shop in Esher Surrey to choose our pumpkin from their extensive ‘pick your own’ crop. Apparently it has a gorgeous Gift Shop too. Can’t wait!

Some immense and helpful discoveries this month – lots of useful services in particular to make life simpler. I have also added 10 new listings in the TLM Ultimate Directory, so be sure to take a look if you need something (or even if you don’t – it will certainly prompt your grey matter!)

Digital Mums

Digital Mums retrains professional women with children who are looking for flexible, part-time work as social media managers. Get in touch with them if you want to become a social media manager, or if you want to hire one of these Digital Mums!

One Lane App

Need a hand with the school run or need someone to ferry your child from school to a class after school. This is a great app to link you up with the other mums who can help you. Perfect if you don’t need a nanny but do need a bit of help with logistics.

The Pandolly Podcast

I have only just ‘got into’ podcasts and this is the first one I have subscribed too. Pandora and Dolly are journalists at the Sunday Times, among many other accolades and their weekly podcast is both hilarious and informative covering current affairs to the latest fashions. I also love Dolly’s weekly email ‘thedollymail’ that I just savour. Sign up to it here

Treasure Trails

If you have a little Sherlock at home, head to Treasure Trails which is a website to download a Treasure Trail in your area. Perfect on a dull day when you are wondering what to do or if you are on holiday and want to explore the local area. We did the Putney one and it was brilliant and took us to places we didn’t know existed (and also got our grey matter working!)

Times Table Songs – Quick Brown Fox

I love this. If you are in the throes of learning timetables (your young ones, not you – you should know yours already…) Quick Brown Fox are a duo who have take popular pop songs and change the lyrics to learn your times tables. You will find yourself watching on your own – so catchy! Definitely a YouTube channel to subscribe to so you can be the first to know when they release new songs.

&Breathe Postnatal

If you have just had a bambino and quite rightly need a little downtime, & Breathe Post Natal are one day retreats in London and the UK (Woolley Grange) and rural one week retreats in France. The retreats are centred around wellbeing, fitness, resting and healthy food. It sounds heaven! Both of you can go – dad and baby and they also have facilities for older siblings.

Luxe In The Country

This is a great website geared at ‘city girls who live in the country’ – although I have subscribed despite living in London – Sophie, the editor has so many glamorous ideas and fashion & lifestyle recommendations for country chic.

ASample

Eek. This could be dangerous. An app to find every sample sale imaginable. Need I say more…

Glammrags

Emma, who runs The Glam Mummy blog & her friend Astrid, have set up a one stop destination for little girls accessories. Lots of bright colours and sparkles… That’s the Christmas stocking sorted!

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Activities Events

Half Term Theatre Fix

If you have kids under 8 and a slot in your half term schedule – go and immerse yourself and the little ones in a bit of culture and see Mrs Armitage and The Big Wave at the theatre.

It is a fast passed (only 1 hr long) multi sensory adaption of Quentin Blake’s popular book about a women and her dog Breakspear and the adventures they embark on at the beach. Simple but not boring!

Developed by The Gaga Theatre Company, they are touring London in October. We went to a viewing at The Tabernacle in Notting Hill.

Although that ship has sailed, Mrs Armitage will be at Clapham, Brixton & Chelsea (Royal Albert Hall is sadly sold out) this week and there are still a few tickets left.

I recommend reading the book before you go so they can you compare the book with the play (make it educational) and also the little ones will have a vague idea of whats going on.

Surprisingly, our 2 year old sat through it too, thanks to the bright lights, the huge interactive screen and the music.

That’s our theatre fix until Christmas….

Book Now

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People Spotlight

Beatrice de Montille : Merci Maman

Many of us are familiar with the necklace that made Merci Maman famous, The Duchess Necklace, worn by the Duchess of Cambridge after the birth of her children but there are so many other absolute gems that Merci Maman sell including personalised gifts for him and juniors!

Béatrice de Montille settled down in London 12 years ago, following her husband, Arnaud, who worked in the City. She worked for Danone and Del Monte in Sales and Marketing positions for several years but after having her second child, she needed flexibility at work.

She wanted to start her own company so that she could work from home. In 2007 Béatrice was looking for a personalised birthday gift for her daughter. The only place she was able to find it was a shop in France but the owner told her she wouldn’t ship it to the UK. That’s why Béatrice decided to create a UK-based platform that would ship stylish personalised jewellery and gifts worldwide and called it Merci Maman — ‘Thank you Mummy’ — a nod to the special bond between a mother and her child.

Merci Maman 26th April 20162668

Nine years later, the company employees 25 team members and they have sent more than 150 000 products in more than 100 countries. The orange boxes are distinctively Merci Maman!

The website is split into her, him and juniors and is very simple to navigate. I found this picture particularly helpful when deciding on what necklace length you prefer.

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My new favourite item of jewellery is the Personalised Eternity Trio Necklace, pictured below. I have my three children name on each circle.

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I think the Personalised Boho Necklace could go quite well with it… (different lengths obviously, it’s all about layering)

The Ilado U Pregnancy Necklaces are new to the range and absolutely stunning. There is a soft chime inside the pendant so perfect to wear when your baby in utero can hear (from 16 weeks) and if you get the long length it will be close to it’s ears.

There is also a lovely selection of arm candy to adorn your exposed wrists. The personalised Leather Wrap Dice Bracelet is a good place to start and with each child you can add a dice.

Personalised Liberty Eternity Bracelet is also high on my wish list!

If you have a ‘bolster’ why not get your mobile number engraved on a bracelet. I like these neon Oval Plate Bracelets.

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If you are looking for a present for the Dad who has everything (and he is a golfer!) get a Golf Tee and Marker set.

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Beatrice’s Favourites

Hotel : Airbnb

Website : Not On The High Street

Shop : Amaia & Oliver Bonas

Restaurant : Claude’s Kitchen, Parsons Green

For a romantic evening we like to go to Claude’s Kitchen , just one floor above the amuse bouche, my favourite bar. Claude’s Kitchen
has a nice range of creative dishes that change every week. Everything is always well cooked, fresh and seasonal. I love steak or a
well-cooked fish dish.

Holiday Destination : “South of France where we have a holiday house. Great to receive family and friends during the summer!”

Parenting tip : ‘Trust your children and teach them our important trust is. Let them experience life so they build self confidence.’

mercimamanboutique.com

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Big Fashion

Stars & Studs : Jeans

Last week at a friends second hand clothing sale, the magpie was out in force and I came away with a super duper pair of jeans with little gold studs on them. Why would someone sell these?! They are mega!

It has inspired me to do a little ‘cyber’ sweep, so if you are partial to a bit of bling on your bottom – this post is for you.

& Other Stories, £65

This whole outfit just works. Totally inspiring.

Sandro, Locodice Jeans, £239

Oooh snowflakes. Very a la mode come Crimbo!

J Brand, Alba Studded Jeans £200

Subtle and slimline.

Topshop, Studded Mom Jeans £50

Ok, I threw these in due to the reasonable price from our trusty Topshop. I can’t say they are my top pick. It would take a serious fashionista extraordinaire to pull off 3 trends in 1 (mum jeans, overt rips and bleach denim – not to mention the studs!)

Stella Mccartney, Skinny Boyfriend Jeans £365

These are my fave. Stella makes black and blue anything other than a big bruise – I love this outfit. Stars, tassles, dark…

Moschino, Star Studded Skinny Jeans £223

Like the skinny angle and that they are long enough to wear with boots. Dark for disguised mud splatter too.

Stella McCartney, Star Print Boyfriend Jeans £365

Fab Sunday slumming jeans.

R13 Kate Skinny Jeans £420

Ok, not stars or studs but you know I am partial to going off piste. I love these, haven’t seen anything like them before. #icandream

True Religion, Embelished Jeans £350

I love the cut of True Religion jeans, great on the butt. It is whether you would want to spend so much on a trend of just go classic? I am verging on the latter…

I know these are all on the expensive side, so if you want to wait, I am sure the high street will be pelting them out at the rate of knots before Christmas. I actually spied some in Gap yesterday but can’t find them online, however if you have a little person – they have loads of different styles for them! (2ys – 13ys)

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