9 things you should know about owning a 4 year old

When you have a baby, its common to say things such as 'oh I can't wait for s/he to walk', 'won't it be so lovely when s/he can talk?'. Then they walk and they talk and sometimes you look at them and smile adoringly and other times you wish you hadn't wished the younger years away. Raising a 4 year old is certainly not without its challenges. Past the stage of todder-isms but on the cusp of reaching the next stage of independence, being 4 is all about taking in information and testing boundaries- those physical and those of their parent's patience! All children are different but certain traits seem to ring true for most parents.

1. It's normal to begin to question who is in charge

- 'Right, it's time to get dressed for school, can you put Jasmine and Ariel down please?'. 
- 'In a minute Mummy, I just need to finish doing this'. 
-'Ok'
Hang on a second, did I just get told to wait by my child?! The needs of plastic dolls should of course come before the requirement of getting to school on time.

2. You are required to walk slower, a lot slower

At 4, children tend to be in a limbo stage of being too big for the buggy but hating the idea of walking. Of course, little legs tend to be slower but purposefully dragging feet with a pinch of 'I can't' and a dash of 'my legs don't work' thrown in for good measure make getting around the shops or to an appointment all the more fun.
If you're blessed with a 4 year old who walks, runs or skips alongside you with a smile on their face, you lucky, lucky thing.

3. It's ok to say 'because it is' after the 900th question

4 year olds are hungry for knowledge. They want to know and understand the ins and outs of everything; from why the grass is green to why the man on the tv advert is standing by himself (I have no idea?!). Whilst every effort should be made to answer these questions as accurately as possible to fill their little brains with the (sometimes) pointless knowledge they crave, after a long day (or night) it is perfectly acceptable to respond with 'because it is'.

4. Sometimes they go to school with shoes on the wrong feet

-'Mummy, are these the right way?'
- 'Yes sweetie, hurry up.'
Turns out, they weren't! In fact, I wasn't even looking! What should have been done last night, filling in the reading diary, checking the water bottle is in the school bag, finding matching gloves all took priority over the supervision of putting shoes on the correct feet. Bad mummy!

5. Biff, Chip and Kipper are practically members of the family

If you don't have a young child, its still likely that you met these wonderful characters at some point in your life as the superheroes of the phonics world celebrated 30 years of teaching children to read last year! For those of you who don't know, these children have 'exciting adventures' with their mum, dad and dog, Floppy. Enthralling titles include 'The Pancake' and 'The Backpack'. If you have no idea what I'm talking about and have a young child, just wait, you're in for a real treat!

6. Bribery is acceptable 

- 'I don't like it, it's got green bits on it'
- 'But my mouth doesn't work'
- 'My fingers feel full'
All genuine meal time quotes from my 4 year old in residence and when the pull of bribery is at its peak.
'Ok, 5 more big mouthfuls then you can have {delete as necessary} a yoghurt/chocolate bar/banana and honey'.
All of a sudden, the green bits don't taste too bad, the mouth works and the fingers are perhaps only half full. Magic!

7. Buying new toys makes the old ones more fun 

Christmas, despite all good intentions to keep as a calm and tidy festive affair quickly became a tangled jungle of used wrapping paper, discarded boxes, squeals of excitement and those stupid metal tie things that keep toys in place and are a pain in the arse to undo. After a day of excitement and a load of new toys, I find noisy beastie 1 sat playing with a Hello Kitty toy plane she received for her 2nd birthday and her dad's bike pump she had rooted out of the cupboard...I kid you not. We know what to tell Santa to buy next year! He might save some money!

8. 'In a minute' is not an acceptable answer 

The idea of time is a relatively new concept at this age and my god does time move slowly for a 4 year old when they want something.
'Mummy, can you go and get my mermaid toy....{raised eyebrows} please?'
'Yes, in a minute'
A matter of seconds later....'how about now?'
'In a minute I said'
'....now?'
In the words of Pheobe Buffay, lather, rinse, repeat until you get it.

9. Words like 'poop' and 'bum' are hilarious 

Being a parent is hard work. In fact, just being a grown up is and we're all doing the best we can. So at the end of a frazzled day when you've gone as far as questioning the very meaning of life, batted away the constant requests to play pizza playdoh and scraped yet another lovingly prepared meal into the bin, laughing with your 4 year who has discovered the new US president's name is Trump makes it all worthwhile! 

You are enough.

Brunch, Lunch, Coffee & Cake. Where to eat with your family in Shrewsbury.

Going out as a family can be a real mission. Not only is there yourself to think about but the noisy beasties of the family to dress, plus what they'll need for your outing. After the coats are done up, shoes put onto the correct feet and toothpaste wiped from mouths, you're left in yesterday's leggings with the bleach stain and just enough time for a squirt of bastiste in your hair (other brands are available!). Once out, you can be left wondering where to go for a coffee or a bite to eat without worrying about keeping the children occupied long enough for just a minute or two plus not disturbing other diners. Living in Shrewsbury, we're lucky enough to play host to a number of independent cafés and eateries perfect for families, allowing you to take a break from what can be a stressful shopping trip. Take a look at some of the best places to go as either a local or visitor to the Town of Flowers (in no particular order).

Button & Bear >

3 Thornes Hall 27/28 Castle Street, Shrewsbury, SY1 2BQ

What? Café stroke children's bookshop providing a wide choice of hot and cold drinks, not forgetting the amazing cake selection!

Why? The perfect stop off for those with young children in tow, Button & Bear is designed with little ones in mind with a buggy station, changing and feeding area and a play section giving busy parents some much needed respite. Keep an eye on their Facebook page for storytelling and crafty events that take place in the woodland themed activity room downstairs!

Palmer's of Shrewsbury >

Baptist Church, Claremont Street, Shrewsbury SY1 1QG

What? A not for profit café, perfect for a coffee and cake stop or perhaps a bacon sandwich before you head over to the Quarry for a scenic walk.

Palmer's of Shrewsbury

Why? Located in the Baptist church on Claremont Street, Palmer's of Shrewsbury is a great central location with a car park located behind. Enjoy a hot drink and slice of something sweet in the knowledge that your money is going towards a local, chosen charity. Palmer's also features a children's area and a large room upstairs used for a number of activities including the weekly NCT Bumps & Babies meet up.

St Nicholas- Cafe- Bar- Spa >

24 Castle Street, Shrewsbury, SY1 2BQ

What: Exactly what it says on the tin, a cafe, bar and spa but with extra character and charm thrown in for good measure.

Why: St Nicholas, located in a converted church is spacious, tastefully decorated and provides a wide choice of lunchtime options. Look out for half term deals such as 'kids eat free' with some great healthy choices to suit the fussiest of children as well as an excellent afternoon tea for the grown ups. The Moroccan Day Spa is a great excuse for mums (or dads) to escape for an hour or two!

The Bird's Nest >

The Market Hall, 6-7 Claremont Street, Shrewsbury SY1 1QG

What: A comfortable, quirky cafe, full of atmosphere and delicious food.

The Bird's Nest

Why: Located in The Market Hall, The Bird's Nest is a hive of activity with flavour and atmosphere its most memorable qualities. Whether you grab a coffee whilst waiting for a haircut at Risdon's or stay for lunch, The Market Hall provides plenty of sounds, smells and activities to keep your little ones occupied. Look out for evening events held throughout the year.

The Shrewsbury Coffeehouse >

5 Castle Gates, Shrewsbury SY1 2AE

What: A fast paced, artisan sandwich making, herbal tea brewing, flat white loving gem.

The Shrewsbury Coffeehouse

Why: Conveniently located within a few paces of the station, The Shrewsbury Coffeehouse is perfect for those wanting a quick stop but with plenty of space downstairs for a leisurely lunch. Accommodating, friendly waiters great with kids and amazing art by local artists on the walls contribute to a warm atmosphere. You can find Monday Morning Mothers & Co here, the best compliment for a family friendly café.

Stop. Coffee Shop >

3 St Julian's Crescent, Shrewsbury SY1 1UD

Shrewsbury Museum & Art Gallery, The Music Hall, Market St, Shrewsbury SY1 1LG

What: Homemade, local goodness with two locations to chose from; both perfect for sitting inside or out.

Why: Stop. Coffee Shop is a bright, light café with a friendly atmosphere offering a delicious range of lunchtime and snack. Whether you stop off from a wander through the Quarry or tie your visit in with a day out at the fabulous Museum & Art Gallery, you can relax in the knowledge your children are occupied with a selection of books, toys and games enjoyed with a chocolate milkshake!

The Pour House >

128 Frankwell, Shrewsbury SY3 8JX

What: Alternative, colourful space for coffee or cocktails bringing a flavour of steampunk to Frankwell.

The Pour House

Why: With the whispers of amazing milkshakes indeed true, The Pour House provides an unconventional setting to enjoy a beverage and a bite to eat. Plenty of space for prams (there is an alternative entrance- don't be put off by the steps) and board games for the restless minds, you can be sure of accommodating staff and delicious treats. Even if you don't need it, be sure to pay a visit to the rest room for more intriguing decor!


In Shrewsbury, wherever you turn you will find an independent cafe, restaurant, bookshop or butcher. The list is endless. Not only that but you can enjoy local produce, supporting local businesses safe in the knowledge that your noisy beasties are catered for. For more information and even more great places to eat and drink, click here.

6 things people say when you have a baby

'Aww look at that tiny baby!' 

We've all said it or similar. Getting out and about with a newborn generally attracts a lot of attention and you find yourself conversing with strangers or strategically placing a protective hand over your baby's head as said-strangers feel it necessary to touch! With both girls born so small, I've found myself answering the same few questions over and over for weeks- ones I myself am guilty of asking, which has led me to conclude Brits are indeed creatures of habit!

What did you have?

'A baby!', the sarcastic, sleep deprived parent inside you answers; but you smile sweetly answering 'a little girl' nodding your head towards the tiny baby in the pram snuggled up in PINK! Yes, sometimes it is hard to tell with outfits in whites, greys and yellows plus swathes of blankets but bear with us; hearing this question over and over can cause the onset of gritted teeth and an eye twitch worthy of a cartoon villan.

Is she good for you?

I'm 99% sure I've asked similar of new mums and described both my girls as 'good' but when on the receiving end of this question, you're led to wonder what does this actually mean?! She sleeps (sometimes), cries, feeds, poops and wees; much the same as every other baby. Is that good?? Who knows so this question will often be met with a smile and nod- too tired to go into detail of why, if this question is a measure of how much she has cried, the answer is in fact, a no.

How are the nights?

Hmm, how are the nights... To be frank, pretty horrendous, do my eye bags not answer your question sufficiently? The night was spent changing, feeding, patting, shushing (shushing- a pointless exercise to make you feel better about waking the neighbours) then repeat. Correct answer: 'Not too bad, we're a little tired but getting there'. Note optimism is key!


And it isn't just questions, people feel that without you asking, you are in fact in need of advice. It's all well intentioned but don't worry, we've got this; if we need help, we'll ask.

Ooh, you'll make a rod for your own back!

Picking your baby up when she cries, feeding her when she's hungry, enjoying a cuddle before she goes back in her Moses basket. All ways we are compromising our child's up bringing. After all, babies are born evil geniuses right, crying for no reason and plotting ways to make us pick them up?

Make sure you sleep when the baby sleeps

I can just picture the scene now, a busy supermarket full of sleeping parents dropping like stones as their babies close their eyes. Even taken non-literally, this is pretty hard to follow! When the housework is done, the shopping put away, a few moments silence with a HOT drink (what is one of these again?) is even better then a 5 minute nap.

It's not a smile, she's got a bit of wind

Your baby has cried all day, she's in her third change of clothes from sick, dribble and exploding nappies and just wants to be held so nothing has been done- including that shower you keep trying to have. You finally set her down and from her state of half unconsciousness, she opens her mouth into a gummy grin. Yes, yes  it is highly likely this is wind. But please, its been a hard day, I've just noticed dried, crispy baby puke in my hair and my top is inside out- it is a bloody smile!! 

In the beginning...

...there was 1.

Then, on the 10th November 2016 at 5.10am, Lee and I became parents once again to another beautiful baby girl. The arrival of Florence by emergency c section was anything but smooth with 2 hours in surgery, 2 blood transfusions and regaining feeling on the table- everything in 3's right?!
The weeks following have been incredibly tough; amazing but tough with Lee and I getting to know our new daughter whilst ensuring Isabella had plenty of love and support as she adjusted to the small human that cried a lot who had come to live with us.

At 7 weeks, we're slowly emerging from a haze of newborn-ness helped along the way by many a question from an incredibly inquisitive 4 year old (Why do we have feet? Why do you wear glasses all day? Why is a magpie a type of bird? What are you thinking?!).

Now things are settling down, we laugh more than we cry (except Florence but she's getting there!) and I'm ready to blow the cobwebs from my Boosts and start training for my next challenge. With a running ban compulsory from 28 weeks pregnant, I am thoroughly unfit and feel like even a mile is going to be tough but Shrewsbury 10k is just under 3 months away and I'm totally up for the challenge with 2 noisy beasties in tow.