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mum’s the word

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magazine May/June 2014

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a magazine by mums for mums

Don’t Tell the Bride Scott Adams on his unusual wedding experience

A Change is as good as a rest!!

Embracing the fluidity of being a modern mum!

Wedding Info Fathers Day Gift Ideas Toddler Activity Ideas

Half Term Activities Healthy Finances!

What’s On? Local Fun

To subscribe to this magazine please contact us at nik@mumsthewordmag.co.ukmums the word

Not flesh of my flesh or bone of my bone but heart of my heart and soul of my soul

Could you foster?

Transform your life & bring hope to vulnerable children & young people.

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mums the word

Contents Welcome to mum’s the word magazine Hello again mums!

Hope you’re all enjoying this lovely sunshine we’ve been having recently though the regular rain keeps us on our toes when choosing the little ones clothes!

As you may have seen I’ve changed the magazine to bi monthly now so the What’s On section will cover the two months now and each edition will contain a school holiday so all of them will have ideas on what to do and where to go during the school breaks.

As I’ve made the change to the mag, I’ve included ‘Change’ as a theme for some of the content - us mums just think we’re getting sorted and settled and then our children go through another ‘phase’ which requires us to get our thinking caps on all over again!

This edition features our lovely Exciting Times author Scott Adams telling us about his recent experience on Don’t Tell the Bride as well as his usual article on the animal antics at Exotic Zoo so put your feet up for a cuppa and enjoy!

There’s also a quick but tasty pasta recipe great for the summer evenings and don’t forget Fathers Day is coming up on une 15th so we have an ‘I love dad because’ feature to get the kids drawing and writing all about what they love about dad for us to print in future editions. Should be entertaining!

As always if you have any ideas or requests please feel free to get in touch - nik@ mumsthewordmag.co.uk and hope you have a lovely Whit Week with your families!

Nik x

Nan n

For ages 18 Months and upwards

y Tr icks A Bring

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imaginations alive at Nanny Tricks Art Classes 07779 572 543 info@nannytricks.com www.nannytricks.com

6.

I love dad because...

Let the kids send in their pics of what they love about dad

13.

Don’t tell the bride!

Scott Adams shares his thoughts on his recent wedding experience 20.

puzzlin g Times Something for the kids to do to hopefully give mum 5 minutes for a cuppa 25.

Mums Kitchen a yummy and easy pasta recipe for a quick family tea 27.

money matters Tips on teaching our children to have a healthy attitude towards their money

the word Get in Touch... mum’s magazine

email: nik@mumsthewordmag.co.uk tel: 01952 461345 mob: 07549 946852 facebook.com/mumsthewordmag twitter - @mumsthewordmag

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mums the the word word 17 3 mums

All Change...

again!

...

s mum’s change our spots (or whatever chameleons do!) in any day more U often than I’d dare to even guess at so we’d give any chameleon a serious run for their money in a ‘Change Off’- you can just imagine it can’t you - poor chameleon changes to new surroundings - mums already run off to the freezer in Chef Mode to thaw the tea so is no longer the Taxi Driver she was seconds ago!

So let’s have some fun blowing our own trumpets stopping emergency such as the batteries and looking at what we manage to embrace as running out on the games console remote! a mother - starting with the enormous transition If somebody asked you what from non-mum to mum.

changes when you become a Remember the unaccountable days of lounging in a bath for hours? Partly because mum what springs to mind? you just ‘could’ and also because there wasn’t There is a list as long as your arm that may appear a little battering ram army trying to break down to be negatives – you lose your body to stretch the door because they either needed the loo marks, sore boobs that never regain their original or wanted you to deal with their latest world-

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form again, sleep becomes more precious than gold, your appearance changes completely and looking good now takes the form of finding clean underwear (who cares if it matches??) and leaving the house without baby badges on shoulders or clothes on inside out!

Must be able to meet deadlines...

Successfully manages to combine Hussein Bolt’s 100m record and Dale Winton’s Supermarket Sweep getting three year old to the toilet in a crowded supermarket because they don’t tell you until seconds beforehand that they really do need to go!

Must be able to improvise and be resourceful...

You can turn anything into a game or a toy at the drop of a hat – take their socks off and they have puppets to play with, shoes are now little houses for the pretend family of mice you’ve just conjured up, you can deliver any action based song in seconds and James Bond isn’t a patch on you with his ‘all singing, all dancing fancy-dan’ pen – your pen But yes it’s time to be corny – if you were given the writes stories on napkins, creates tattoos, draws option of trading it all in you wouldn’t swap it for the all manner of animals and creatures and makes world. My little man now he’s two really does melt games to occupy any child in any situation. my heart with the soft tone his voice takes when he says ‘mummy’ or offers a kiss or cuddle for no Must show sensitivity and empathy when required... reason. It’s so full of love and innocence and worth Yep - you’re the modern day Mother Teresa - you the endless hours of picking up toys, cooking or can ‘fix’ most wounds with a magic kiss or a magic preparing meals that just get pushed away without cuddle and unconditional love and understanding even a taste because that’s what two year olds on tap and are often the ‘go to’ that your kids ask do, having tantrums and trying to smack or kick me for after accidents so you have the ability to diffuse and generally testing my patience very regularly! most situations in seconds and restore calm!

If we listed our assets as a mother on a CV we’d have acquired the skills to walk into any Project Management job in a heartbeat!In fact we’d be overqualified but I think the school gates really should be where recruitment starts for any managerial roles...

ACW051:- 23/04/2014 12:30 Page 1

So mums - the next time your kids are running you through the mill or you feel like you’re spinning too many plates - just remember the Motherhood Boot Camp has equipped you for life - nobody can deal with change better than a busy mum!

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I love my dad because...

With Fathers Day coming up on June 15th we thought it would be lovely to give the kids a chance to let us know how much they love dad! We have so many pre conceived notions of what being a dad is all about but these can often be very different to your childs version of what they think of their dad - maybe it’s that he gives the best cuddles, reads the best stories, plays footie in the park or even that he’s an ally in winding mummy up!

We also often think that dads should be the brave one of the house or the macho one but again maybe this isn’t the case in your house - maybe dad’s scared of spiders for instance!

So let’s have some fun - ask your little peeps to write something about dad or draw a picture of him in action - drop me an email at nik@mumsthewordmag. co.uk and we’ll print them all in the next edition on an ‘I love Dad’ page. All entries will receive a Mum’s the Word Goodie Bag so come on kids - get scribblin!

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Some gift ideas for dad...

Why not dig out your keepsakes and make them into something special for dad wirh Smallprint - baby’s first footprints or handprints, maybe a picture worth cherishing but what a lovely gift to give dad to remind him of his little monkeys for many years to come.

Or you could give dad a lasting memory with a gift day at Exotic Zoo - book him in for a fun day with loads of crazy animals from skunks to armadillos, crocodiles to monkeys, but maybe it’s the snakes, spiders, lizards and crocodiles that will test his mettle!

THE AMAZING WORLD OF ANIMALS...

By Scott Adams

Tiny Adventures at Exotic Zoo!

Here at Exotic Zoo we feel blessed to spend our days with such wonders of the animal world and spend a good majority of our time ensuring that our ‘babies’ are comfortable, happy and content. However anyone who works in the animal world will know the stresses and strains that go hand in hand with working with animals, and one of the problems we face is the numerous calls, emails visits from people who can no longer look after their animals.

Very often this is down to changes in circumstances but we do see the rare case of neglect, and while heart breaking, we still do whatever we can to help both the animals and their owners. Here is one of our more unusual rehoming stories..... (look out for more next month!)

This one actually national press!!

hit

the

One chilly morning upon arriving at Exotic Zoo HQ we found a large black box outside the entrance – no note or letter or warning, nothing.

A very brave Scott took it upon himself to haul the box inside to see what treats were inside. Now we are used to little parcels arriving at the door but often these are just very kind donations of animal food and snacks from our friends and visitors.

This box however was considerably larger than normal and felt like it contained a little more than the usual half eaten apples and a gone off banana... and my we were surprised!

The grand unveiling revealed to us a very large and rather cold green and brown coloured snake who is now Never a dull day for Scott... known as Tiny, our green Anaconda.

While appearing fairly docile at the time it turns out that Tiny has quite a character when warmed up and wasted no time in showing it off to Scott and the national newspaper photographer.

While posing rather dramatically for a photo, Tiny swung his head around, biting a chunk out of Scott’s arm! Needless to say we can assume this may be one of the reasons the owner decided to gift Tiny to us.

Did you know...?

Green Anaconda’s weigh in as the heaviest snake in the world and reaching lengths of 30ft! Found lurking in the swamps of South America this beast can be found feasting on the likes of tapirs, deer, capybaras and crocodilians! So does this potential man-eater win any prizes for the best pet award…. unfortunately not!

Next edition find out about the cheeky monkeys Rosy and Ruby saved from death as a last minute rescue! mums the word 7

a wonderful world of music, learning and fun

Musical Steps classes are fun

filled music classes for babies and toddlers from 4 months to 3 years old.

Musical Steps stands out from the crowd because we offer a quality educational experience that is so much more than a simple sing-song.

We use our voices and musical expertise to teach important concepts and skills and avoid commercial backing tracks which get in the way of children’s learning.Classes are so much fun and really good for you too.

Without even realising, not only is your child developing lots of musical knowledge, but being involved in music making helps to develop their communication, language and listening skills and encourages creativity and cooperation.

Who would have thought something so fun could be so good for you?!

And the earlier you start, the better, so give your child the best start in life, and join us at Musical Steps.

Why not treat your grandchild, niece or nephew to a term of classes with a Musical Steps gift voucher?

Help develop your child’s creativity · co-operation · listening · communication · language skills and have fun together!

Classes in your local area Contact Eleanor for more information on: 07708 754216 or email: eleanor.pittam@musicalsteps.co.uk Eleanor’s Musical Steps

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www.musicalsteps.co.uk

mums the word

@MusicalStepsEP

Check out www.musicalsteps.co.uk and my Facebook page Eleanor’s Musical Steps for more info and testimonials.

Free Trials available why not come along and join in!

It’s Child’s Play!

When we see our children absorbed in their play it’s easy to overlook that play is so vital for them it’s through play that they learn, grow and have fun whilst helping them to develop socially and emotionally and understand the world around them.

Singing songs, playing games, dancing or having fun all give them a head start - besides the obvious bonus of creating a happy childhood they are also equipping themselves with confidence to handle what life brings them. Here’s some simple ideas to get involved in the fun...

Messy Play - Try filling a bowl with shaving foam cooked spaghetti in water or baked beans to encourage your little one to experiment with textures.

Song Time - Action songs are great fun for

parents and kids and they help with speech, movement and co-ordination.

Dress Up - Finding little Timmy in high heels and pearls isn’t only a great photo opportunity for his 18th but it’s a great way of children expressing themselves, building imagination and role playing plus building an understanding of the world around him by imitating mummy.

Story Time - Reading to our little ones is the perfect time to bond, have a cuddle at the end of the day, relieve stress and instil calm to encourage a peaceful sleep. Listening to stories also gives children a great foundation for literacy skills and teaches them how to concentrate and pay attention.

Maths & English Tuition

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Burton Borough School Newport

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-  - Headteacher: Mr D.M. Hill BEd, MA Audley Avenue, Newport, Shropshire TF10 7DS Telephone: 01952 386500   10

mums the word

Prepare your Children for the Future...

Develop your child’s independent learning skills...

At your local Randlay, Telford Study Centre, Kumon offers individualised maths and English study programmes for all ages and abilities. Established for over 50 years, the Kumon programmes enable children to develop their study skills and confidently tackle advanced work.

Through daily study of the Kumon programmes, your child will develop the ability to learn for themselves so they do not become dependent on – or limited by – the skills and knowledge of others.

They will then be able to apply these skills to all subjects and outside of school too.

Before enrolling, each child can benefit from a Free Assessment. This will determine where on the programmes they will begin and will ensure that their Kumon study is individualised to their needs from the outset.

As a global programme, Kumon does not follow a school curriculum, but rather is complementary to it. Kumon operates at exactly the right level for each student, ensuring that the material each one encounters extends and develops their skills, confidence and ability. This kind of individual differentiation is a unique benefit of the programmes and makes them an effective complement to the school curriculum.

The Randlay, Telford Study Centre is located at the Randlay Community Centre, with classes running on Tuesdays from 4.15pm to 6pm and Saturdays from 10am to 12pm.

The new school year is an ideal time to take advantage of a Free Assessment and enrol your child at your local Kumon centre, to ensure they gain maximum benefit from the year of learning ahead. For more information or to book a Free Assessment, contact Instructor Jacqueline Evans on 01952 463352 or email randlaytelford@ kumoncentre.co.uk.

Relatives to the Rescue!

Jackie was struggling in maths as a 3rd year

when her Grandma called to find out about Kumon. After attending the parent orientation, Jackie was enrolled and started at basic addition facts.

With the support of parents and grandparents, Jackie progressed quickly through the program and became the top of her 6th year class in a short three years! Not only did her maths skills improve but she also developed a more positive and confident outlook on maths.

By the end of year 8 Jackie was studying high school maths material. She attributes her thriving success in school to her consistent & diligent studies at Kumon.

At Randlay Kumon Centre students are supported by grandparents who pay the monthly fee of £55 for their grandchild to study either maths or English. mums the word 11

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Shhhh....

(Don’t Tell the Bride!)

Us mum’s are suckers for a good love story so I couldn’t wait to chat to Scott Adams about his recent experience on Don’t Tell The Bride. As you’ll probably know, Scott has been writing for Mum’s the Word since my first edition with his Exciting Times Articles keeping us in the loop on the Exotic Zoo Antics and is now a very good friend. So it only seems right to share his unsual experience with you lovely mums and wish Scott and his beautiful lady a wonderful future together!

Scott and Verity who have been together over four years now, took part in the program after applying and thinking, like most do, that they wouldn’t get picked.

Imagine their surprise when after a few chats and interviews with the producers they received a call saying they were starting the filming the next week!

If you’re not familiar with Don’t Tell the Bride, the basis of the show is that the couple are given a budget of £12,000 and three weeks, for the groom to organise every single part of the wedding in secret - including choosing the dress - they even have to sign a legal document to say there’ll be no contact between them within that three weeks!

As the show won’t be aired until August I’ve had to be very selective with my questions to not give anything away but I’ve still managed to have a great chat with Scott. What is lovely though, is to hear a man’s account of what is conventionally the bride’s day and the thought that went into making sure his bride realises that each gesture within the day is a reflection of his love for her and wanting to make her happy. Not the norm is it - so here’s Scott’s slant on the fairly tale day...

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mums the word 13

How did you and Verity meet?

As I play in a rock band Verity had come to watch us with some friends and we just got chatting - we met up again and I was smitten from the start! Sadly it wasn’t love at first sight for Verity so she made me work hard for her attention in the early days!

Was a Fairy Tale Wedding part of Verity’s P lan?

Neither of us had a strong urge to get married before we’d met but it just seemed right for us and was something we wanted to do - it just shows that it’s all about being with the right person as being together changed both of our minds on marriage.

What made you take part in Don’t Tell the Bride?

We’d always watched it and been fans so we joked about applying - we had the forms for ages but never got around to it and when we finally did we were contacted quite quickly, went for interviews with the producers and we’d really got our hopes up so would have been so disappointed if we’d not been successful!

With me running Exotic Zoo and Verity being a paramedic we both have really busy lives so we liked that the basis of DTTB would work perfectly for us - planned and married in three weeks! When they told us we were on it and filming would start the next week it was crazy!

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So the Biggie - How did you propose?

We’d been together for 3 years and I’d decided I wanted to propose on Valentines Day - so I had a ring designed especially for her by a jeweller by Christmas and booked a beautiful stately home for a lavish meal and luxury weekend.

I’d planned to propose after midnight so the evening before we had an amazing meal, and drank lots of very expensive wine! It was a lovely evening but I was so nervous and we both ended up drinking far more than planned. When we went back to our room Verity sat down on our bed and I ran off to get the card and ring only to find she’d passed out in a drunken stupor!

I was gutted and barely slept that night wondering what to do and if I should ask her the next day.

The following day we went wandering all over the town and as I kept trying to find a suitable time to pop the question I was on tenter hooks - here’s me planning a romantic gesture and wanting to create the perfect moment and Verity thought I’d gone loopy as I was so skitty - I think she thought I was going to murder her and stuff her in the boot of my car at one point!

We walked into a really scenic wood and there were some lovely old stone steps so we joked about it being like something out of Romeo & Juliet and pretended to re-enact it - with Verity at the top and me at the bottom of the steps I went down on one knee and got the ring out and proposed - she was so shocked she laughed and asked ‘are you joking me??’ - wasn’t how I’d planned it in my head but she said yes and the rest is history.

Did many know what you were doing?

Only a few as the program ask you to keep much of it secret for obvious reasons but as filming started so quickly that made it easy to keep it quiet.

Had you picked Verity’s brains on what she wanted for the wedding?

Not at all - I know her taste fairly well but I never saw it as being purely about what Verity would want - with any decisions I made I did think about her but I saw the program as an opportunity to do something different - many people love stately homes and castles for instance but that was never going to be for me. I liked that it gave me the chance to show how much she meant to me by doing all of this for her and just wanted her to have an amazing day but there was still a lot of ‘me’ in the day too so it worked perfectly.

Did you enjoy the experience?

Kindred Spirits from the start...

The photo’s featured are from a holiday that Scott and Verity went on together in the early days - as Verity had originally wanted to be a vet and Scott had a passion for animals especially reptiles they were a match made in heaven - it’s not every loved up couple that has their picture taken on a crocodile!

The Hundred House Hotel

Wedding Fayre

25th June 2014 ~ 5.30pm-8.30pm

It was very stressful! Trying to plan everything in three weeks is a tall order but as I run my business I’m used to having to make decisions and organise lots of things so this helped. It was really hard being apart from each other for the three weeks too - we really missed each other which adds to the stress.

However the day itself was brilliant - the time spent apart all feels quite surreal as you both have camera crews following you around and filming everything. When we saw each other for the first time we were so ecstatic after the three weeks apart it was like we’d just met all over again so it was really special to capture that feeling for the day which I’m not sure we would have created so strongly with a conventional wedding. When you watch the program you’ll see I just have a massive smile on my face once I see her - I felt like I was grinning all day!

How has life been since the show?

Join us for our Summer Wedding Fayre Held in our 17th Century Tithe Barn, our Wedding Fayre offers the perfect chance to meet local wedding suppliers, view 17th Century oak beamed Barn and wander around our award winning gardens.

You will also get chance to meet our experienced Wedding Team.

We look forward to seeing you then!

For more information get in touch...

The Hundred House Hotel, Norton, 01952 580240 reservations@hundredhouse.co.uk

It’s been crazy as taking the three weeks off meant it left a large hole in the work to be done and all of this had to be picked up once we were back so ironically we’ve barely seen each other! It’s starting to calm again now but we haven’t had time for a break together or a honeymoon so we’re hoping we can go somewhere special next year together.

Thank you so much for sharing your experience with us Scott and I wish you and Verity many, many years of love, luck and happiness - enjoy! The show will be aired on TV in August - an exact date hasn’t been scheduled yet so watch this space mums!

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mums

what’s on

Is it just me or do our children seem to be permanently off school at the moment with half term and school holidays?! If like me you struggle for ideas, take a look at What’s On locally and don’t forget to check out some of the local venues advertised too!

24th May

Shropshire County Show

The annual County show returns to the Agricultural Showground in Shrewsbury.

24th May - 1st June

Energy on the Move Workshops

Come and diiscover more about different types of energy and how it’s transferred in the hands on family workshops being held

during half term Call 01952 433424 your space. To book or for further or visit www.ironbridge.org.uk for information please call 01952 382 340 or email TelfordTownPark@ more info. telford.gov.uk 24th May - 26th May Queen Victoria’s Birthday Fun 25th May Come and join in the fun of Queen Family Fun Day Victoria’s Birthday Celebrations A fund raising day for the whole throughout Blists Hill Victorian family at the Home Bistro including Town - for more info check out a Table Top Sale, Bouncy Castle and BBQ - call Telford 502850 for www.ironbridge.org.uk more details.

24th May 10-2 25th May Angling Coaching Following the success last year Fundraising Fun Day Ironbridge Angling Society are Carina McLean is raising funds to running their sessions again. All pay for her sisters costs of being equipment provided. Suitable a surrogate mum for Carina for age 9+. Under 13s must be with face paints, bouncy castle, accompanied by an adult. Spaces cake stall and glitter tattoos plus are limited, please book to reserve lots more fun - Hare & Hounds, Holyhead Road, Telford

Come and join me this Whit Week on one of our fabulous Activity Days!

SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE!

Win Win Win! A fantastic Wyke Equestrian Centre Pony Care & Riding Session worth £17.50

SIGN UP NOW!

We cater for 3 yrs and upwards

Pick up a leaflet or look on our facebook page or website www.wyke-equine.co.uk email:sales@wyke-equine.co.uk

Achievement Rosettes & Certificates for Pony Care COLLECT THE SET! The Wyke Equestrian Centre, Shifnal TF11 9PP ~ 01952 460560 16

mums the word

Simply check out the website at www.wyke-equine.co.uk and email nik@mumsthewordmag.co.uk with the name of the Facebook Page.

The Winner will be drawn from my email hat on Friday 6th June at 5pm.

26th May, 12-4

Bank Holiday Family Fun Day

Caseys Hall is holding a family fun day with free entry for all the family - Caseys, Hall, Wellington Road, Donnington, Tel 01952 606588

June 27th

Family Party Night

A party night aimed at the whole family at Casey’s with music and fun for all. Tickets available from Caseys, Hall, Wellington Road, Donnington, Tel 01952 606588

12-7pm Alveley recreation GroundWV15 6jt

29th May

Make a Bee Hotel Workshop

Come to the Telford Town Park Visitor Centre and make a simple bee hotel to take home for your indoor/outdoor area. Suitable for aged 5+ all children must be accompanied by an adult. Free but booking advisable due to limited spaces call 01952 382340

30th May

Roxy’s storytime PJ Party

Roxy the dog will be having her very own pyjama party at Fidgets Indoor Play Area in Bilston - with two stories, singing songs and playing games why not bring your teddy too? 07902 033729

Live Bands • Attractions Caterers • Stalls Camping • plus lots more CANTALOOP PLUS

BETHAN AND THE MORGANS • THE ALLEYS • LUKE FERRE PACIFIC • LOOSE LIPS • MARK LEEDHAM

Collecting for

SUPPORTING ACTS FROM KIDDERMINSTER COLLEGE ALICE COLEY • SCOTT COLCOMBE BEN STANCOMBE • IMOGEN DAVIES • GRACE WINNITT AND TIME OF THE MOUTH

30th May

Charity Quiz Night

In partnership with

Sponsored by

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Main Sponsor

1st prize: A YEARS SUPPLY OF CHOCOLATE!!!

Also Runner Up Prizes.

Fancy dress compe��on to be judged at the Town Hall at 3pm Sunday 15th June.

Fancy Dress must be in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory theme.

www.ellesmerefoodfes�val.co.uk mums the word 17

mums

what’s on

quiz night - to enter a team call 7th June Telford 502850 Angling Coaching See 24th May for details 31st May 8th June Angling Coaching See 24th May for details RAF Cosford Airshow The premier air show putting an 31 May - 1 June amazing air disply on with red arrows and other aircraft as part Peppa Pigs Big Splash Come and join Peppa and her of a family fun day - visit www. friends for another all singing, all cosfordairshow.co.uk for more dancing advernture full of songs, information or to book tickets games and muddy puddles!!

Grand Theatre, Wolverhampton 14th - 15th June 01902 421292 Ellesmere Food Festival A veritable feast of food and drink 1st June mixed with entertainment for the whole family to enjoy - see advert The Jungle Book You may think you know the Junge on page 17 for further details Book but Indigo Moon Theatre brings you a new and enchanting 15th June 2.30 & 4.30 story inspired by Rudyard Kiplings Old McDonald Had a Farm original books. For ages 4+ To book Younger children can help Old call Severn Theatre 01743 281281 McDonald find his animals as

WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN

one oneaweek week one week family familyfamily membership! membership! membership!

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18

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Wolverhampton Grand are staging the well known plight of the farmer. To book call The Grand Theatre, Wolverhampton 01902 421292

21st-22nd June 11-4

Come and have fun in the woods!!

Make a kite to take home and lets hope for a windy day so you can fly it! Moseley Old Hall, Wolverhampton, 01902 782808

22nd June

SevernFest

Alveley Recreation Ground is holding a festival aimed at the whole family with music, attraction and stalls and even the option to camp so why not bring the whole family along. Please see advert on page 17 for more information.

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Answers: Top Buildings: 1 - Yellow block reversed with hole on top, 2 - Orange block instead of green block, 3 - Has no blue block at the end of the row, Sky: 1 - Third cloud reversed, 2 - Red and blue birds reversed, Bottom Buildings: 1. Blue block on bottom of window, 2 - Windows on pink building on right not left, 3 - Tower red instead of blue

See if you can spot all eight - good luck!

It’s time to get your magnifying glasses out kids as this puzzle is for the Super Detectives out there! There are Eight differences between the two pictures but you’ll have to be REALLY patient to find them all!

Puzzling Times

Prepare to A-Maze yourself...

All in a Muddle Which way does the cow need to go to meet his animal friends and get to the eggs at the end of the maze?

Time to Shape Up Try your hand at Sudoku - you can either draw the shapes in or cut out the shapes from under the puzzles and place them in the squares. The goal is to have a shape of each type in every line going up, down, diagonally and then each box can also contain one of each shape too!

Sudoku Starter...

Sudoku for Little Experts...

mums the word 21

Inner Calm for Busy Mums...

By Fiona Ward

pring has to be my favourite season, watching Sbuds the changes in the garden, bulbs shooting, appearing on the trees, and birds busy

Meditation helps to clear the mind of clutter and can help us to focus and reduce stress.

“Crystal Therapy works to balance the Chakras* and the Aura to bring about balance to the mind, body and spirit”

collecting nest materials. Spring is often a time when we start to feel more positive and energetic as the mornings become lighter and the evenings start later and this pushes some of us to think about getting into shape for the Indian Head massage has a wide range of benefits including better circulation to the face and head, summer, or planning a healthier lifestyle. improved hair growth and is also very relaxing.

However, many of us only think about our health in terms of the physical body and our So before you reach for the anti-wrinkle cream or outward appearance - spending money on tablets to help you sleep why not change the way miracle creams and hair treatments and using you think about your health and try one of these supplements and medicines to keep ourselves fit. holistic treatments and see how they can benefit Not many of us think about our health holistically you? One of these treatments would also make a which includes looking after the mind and the fantastic gifts for a busy mum or friend, along with the crystal jewellery and handmade soaps and spirit as well as the body. bath bombs now in stock.

At Cups and Wands there are now a wide range of holistic therapies available. These include In addition to the Tarot Readings provided by Reiki and Spiritual Healing which involves an myself, June - a certified Angel Card Reader - will exchange of positive energy from the healer be at the shop on selected Thursday afternoons to the customer and are both very relaxing to provide Goddess Oracle and Angel Card treatments. There are also Meditation Classes Readings. June has also studied advanced Numerology and uses this to support the readings twice a week. which are just £15.

There are quite a lot of new items in stock and new things going on in the shop so if you haven’t been in for a while, or have any questions about the holistic treatments feel free to come and have a look round and a chat.

To book a reading or treatment please contact 01952 811892 or email cupsandwands@hotmail. co.uk or book in the shop.

Love and Light,

Fiona 22

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x

Are you a Crafty Sew and Sew? Thinking of trying something different or looking for that special present or Mothers day gift then why not pop into Sew and Sews Attic in Shifnal and buy a voucher for a workshop, gift, or haberdashery item. If you cannot get to the shop, enquiries by phone or email are always welcome.

N alwayew Stock call ms arriving or ad e for helpyour vice with proje cts!

Tucked away down Church Street in Shifnal, Sew and Sews Attic is a unique shop for all Sewing Bee enthusiasts. Here you can learn how to use a sewing machine, to make clothes, cushions, bunting and lots more in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.

Rag Rug, Rag Wreathing and Locker Hooking workshops are also held amongst other things, including patchwork and crochet. The latest addition to the wonderful things on offer at Sew and Sews Attic is a course of workshops to make Vintage Clothes using original and authentic pattern draughts from the 30’s 40’s and 50’s. The workshops are proving to be very popular and early booking is advised.

At Sew and Sews Attic you can also buy a variety of fabrics, fabulous buttons, haberdashery, sewing boxes and books for inspiration.

As a treat you might consider booking a workshop for daughter and Mum for a pleasant outing together. Afterwards you will go away inspired and excited, keen to try out your new skills. All ages are catered for and men are also welcome to come along to learn something new or brush up on their skills.

Helen is a fully qualified teacher with a wealth of experience and the workshops can be tailored to your specific needs. Sew and Sews Attic is well worth a visit and you will leave feeling motivated and confident enough to try out new projects.

Nik says... This is a perfect new hobby for mums to try - learning skills you’ll be able to pass on to your children whilst having fun and escaping!

Are you the next Sewing Bee?

Sew & Sews Attic MAKe Vintage Clothes!

Learn to Sew and other crafts

Why not pop in for your sewing or craft supplies, unique gifts or just some friendly advice!

2 Church Street Shifnal TF11 9AA Tel: 01952 460333

www.sewandsewsattic.co.uk mums the word 23

HEALTHY todooryour FOOD

Forget Man’s Best Friend - Green Fields Farm Shop is a mums best friend!

Veggie Boxes Direct to your Door!

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y! f Pric r e aal go! eliv H D t e ox e i Freirsto oBn giv F G

Kids - we’ve got ‘surprise’ for tea!!

Need some mealtime inspiration mums?

If like most of us you tend to cook the same meals why not let the ‘surprise’ element of a veggie box introduce some variety? You can even get the kids to help to choose (or even cook ) the new recipes!

Supportin g Local Farms!

Buying our products gives vital support to local businesses as our produce is supplied by local farms so it’s added peace of mind that you know exactly where your food is coming from for your children!

www.greenfieldsonline.co.uk

It’s never been easier to eat your Five-a-day!

Delivered to your doorstep in sealed, insulated boxes our weekly Fruit and Veg boxes start from as little as £10! Add two preferences and two dislikes to your file and you can also order other items like bread, meat, milk and eggs or any delicious goodies from the shop!

Yummy Hay Fever remedy...

Did you know that by eating just a teaspoon of local honey every day you can help to keep hayfever at bay! (as well as colds!)

TOP TIP! Slice up fruit such as apples or bananas and serve with honey as a dip to your children for a quick healthy snack!

Where to find us...

DONNINGTON - GREENFIELDS FARM SHOP Station Road, Donnington, Telford, TF2 8JY Tel: 01952 677345 /603747 GREEN FIELDS at PRIORSLEE Lakeside Plant Centre, Priorslee, Telford, TF2 9UR Tel: 01952 200696 24

mums the word

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK!

mums

kitchen g

Ingredients

Serves 4 Prep 10 mins Cook 20 mins

Bacon, pea & basil pasta...

140g frozen peas 400g macaroni 200g pack soft cheese 6 rashers streaky bacon, chopped 2 leeks, finely sliced into rings 1 tbsp vegetable oil 85g mature cheddar, grated 1 tbsp English mustard small bunch basil, shredded

Method

Fry the bacon and leeks in the oil for 10 mins until the bacon is golden and the leeks soft.

Tip in the peas and heat through.

Meanwhile, boil the pasta and heat the grill to high.

Reserve 150ml of the cooking water before you drain the pasta, then add it, the soft cheese, half the grated cheese and the mustard to the pan with the veg.

Stir until the cheese melts into a creamy sauce. Stir in most of the basil and the pasta, then scatter with the rest of the cheese.

Grill for 2-3 mins until the cheese melts.

Scatter with basil to serve.

You can’t beat the simplicity of pasta

for those busy nights when your evening is disappearing before your eyes!

Combining cheese, pasta, leeks, peas and bacon this is a yummy combo to keep everyone in the family happy and very easy to replace ingredients to mix it up a little! mums the word 25

Money may not grow on Trees ...

...but it doesn’t mean we can’t sew a healthy money seed

I have to say one of my personally detested phrases is ‘If only I knew back then what I know now’ as I believe life is a constant journey of learning and growth. That said though, I find it so frustrating that we are not taught financial acumen as part of our structured childhood education and I have learned more about investment in my last few years through selected reading than I had in my entire life.

Invest, keep or spend...

Wealthy people know how to invest - take some time out with the kids and go and show them the different areas you can live with a healthy money attitude and then show them how saving long term could benefit them.

Teach a Saving Mentality...

Open savings accounts early - as soon as children can understand that money can be spent they can also learn it can be saved. By setting some small Imagine what a difference we can make to our goals with them that they can achieve too they can childrens future’s if we really help them to embed then learn goals are merely a series of smaller steps and no goal will ever be too big or out of their reach. a saving mentality from an early age...

Modern society is all about ‘have it now, pay later’ and very disposable so we’re encouraged to constantly buy new ‘stuff’ and many people feel gratification with the acquisition of the latest gadget for instance.

But it’s an amazing feeling when we’ve planned a goal and seen it through and money is such a fundamental part of modern day living that helping your children master how to get money to work for them will set them up for life.

The Golden 10% Rule...

Getting into the habit of writing off 10% of our income as being expendable will reap enormous rewards - before commitments kick in 10% is easy to go without so seeing your savings growing at that rate will be motivation to continue.

Watch your money grow...

Use something clear for their pennies to be saved in like a glass jar in which they can actually see their pennies accumulate. If they are saving for a specific item then cutting a picture out of this and putting it somewhere visible by their savings jar is By encouraging some healthy habits and sewing very motivating.

the right seeds we can watch our children Let them choose... develop a mindset of abundance rather than Give them choices - for example with a party - tell lack that many families are used to being part of. them it would have cost say £200 but a smaller party

Teach them to L VE money!!

26

Ask Richard Branson if he thinks money is the root of all evil!

It really IS okay to love it and you are still a good person!

This is the step that most of us miss - it’s our ‘fear of lack’ that causes a poor attitude to money and it’s a learned behaviour that we were taught.

By teaching our children to have a healthy love and respect for money from an early age, the flow of money will then feel as natural as the weather and will have a positive impact on their life.

mums the word

would cost £80 and £120 could be saved towards whatever goal they are aiming for.

It’s ok to make mistakes..

Let them make their own spending mistakes - this is a valuable lesson too as they can see how quickly money can disappear but it’s also important they don’t become too ‘precious’ and not enjoy their money when they have it.

Play money games...

Board games, apps, toy money all help to build familiarity and understanding of money. Let them budget with you for days out or purchases too.

Let them earn money...

Help them become mini entrepreneurs , get paid for errands or jobs as this all helps to understand the flow of income as well as expenditure

Look after your pennies... ...and the Pounds will look after themselves!

The Archbishop of Canterbury, the Most Rev Justin Welby, hit the headlines last summer with his call for the Church of England to support credit unions as an alternative to payday lenders. A number of “famous names” were also keen to publicise their membership of a Credit Union, but do you know what a Credit Union is?

You wouldn’t be alone if unaware of the services provided by more than 500 Credit Unions around the UK - HRH The Duchess of Cornwall who joined the London Mutual Credit Union in Peckham earlier this year said: “It’s very important to get the word out and tell people about it. It is just raising awareness. Probably like many other people I didn’t know much about it.”

FAIRshare Advert 13.01.14 a_Layout 1 14/01/2014 00:48 Page 1

YOUR local Credit Union is in Shifnal every week visit the

FAIRshare Credit Union

FAIRshare Service Point every THURSDAY 2.30pm-4.30pm at OASIS

1 Shifnal Shopping Centre, Bradford Street

Next door to the Village Cafe, opposite Paton’s Garage

Secure ethical savings Access to low cost affordable loans for regular savers Young Savers Account www.fairshare.uk.com

or call 01952 282528 for more information

Putting people before profit

What is a Credit Union?

A Credit Union is an independent, not-for-profit financial co-operative owned and controlled by its members so with no external shareholders the Credit Union is run for the benefit of its members.

Regular savings create a ‘pool of money’ used to offer low cost flexible loans to other members and you still have the reassurance of having the protection and regulation of standard banks and building societies FAIRshare is Shropshire’s largest Credit Union, and is open to everyone who lives or works in Shropshire. Main branches are located in Telford & Shrewsbury, whilst weekly FAIRSHARE Service Points are located in towns & villages throughout the county, providing an accessible “Community Bank” to everyone possible.

FAIRshare offers straight forward savings accounts - including a Young Saver account for children - with any surplus paid as an annual dividend.

Regular savers have access to affordable loans, with interest rates from only 1% per month (12.68% APR) and no penalties if paid off early significantly less than many other lenders. Savers money stays in Shropshire and helps others in the local community.

Help your child become a Young Saver!

How about opening a FAIRshare Young Saver Account for your child this year, and teach them about the importance of saving. An Account can be opened with as little as £1 and is available to children from birth to under 16 years. Children can save as little or as much as they want, whenever they want. Junior members receive an annual statement each March, and as a reward for saving receive an annual dividend from any profits made.

Exclusive offer to Mum’s the Word Magazine Readers!

To celebrate the opening of the new FAIRshare Service Point at the Oasis Shop in Shifnal, FAIRshare is offering a FREE Children’s Goody Bag to the first 25 new members opening a Young Saver Account in May or June 2014. Present this advert when opening a Young Saver Account at the Shifnal FAIRshare Service Point or the Telford branch to receive your Goody Bag. Identification is required when opening an account - for further details please visit www.fairshare.uk.com mums the word 27

High Street office with a lovely team of 7 to help you.

SELLING OR RENTING?

We would love to look after you and your properties

DISCOUNTED RATES for YOU LOVELY MUMS on production of this advert

Small can be really beautiful so don't get lost in the listings No pressure no hard sell - you become a name not a property

“Come and relax in our friendly office or call us and chat about your requirements - Service with a smile and a cup of tea” One of the few NAEA/ARLA agents In Telford.

Own web site, Rightmove, Zoopla, Telford Journal and much more

CALL ME YOU HAVE NOTHING TO LOSE EXCEPT WE WILL SELL OR RENT YOUR HOUSE ;)

Julia Weston The Stables 43 Market Street Wellington Telford TF1 1DT Office 01952 246622 or 246633 julia@juliaweston.co.uk www.juliaweston.co.uk 28

mums the word

Going the extra mile... literally!

say one good turn deserves another so if I ever receive a Tgo heygood service I’ll tell everyone! The guys on these pages really do the extra mile so give them a call when you need their services as I promise you won’t be disappointed!

All in a day’s Work...

I cannot speak highly enough of these guys! I had a longstanding sluggish starting problem with my BMW X5. Went the usual route of first trying the dealer "nothing showing on the diagnostics Sir", then the BMW recommended repair shop, who to be fair is usually excellent, but on this occasion "nothing on the diags, but I think you have a voltage drain problem and it will take me a whole day to pull fuses to trace it".

Came to Autoclinic on the off-chance (with low is here to help!

AUTOCLINICAUTOCLINIC is here to help! expectations!).

One hour later, problem diagnosed with the

fault being the starter motor, part ordered and fitted and got Repairs, MOT’s, Servicing, CarMOT’s, Keys,Servicing, Repairs, Car Keys, backcall... same day. all at call... the end ofthea car phone Diagnostics all at theDiagnostics end of a phone

“I would have paid a LOT to get this fixed, but the value, 585555 01952 58555501952 07976 27498107976 274981 efficiency and service I got here COURT WORKS INDUSTRIAL ESTATE, RD, TELFORD, TF7 4JB COURT WORKS INDUSTRIAL ESTATE, BRIDGNORTH RD, TELFORD, TF7BRIDGNORTH 4JB were second to none” HALF PRICE DIAGNOSTICS FOR MTW READERS...

As you can see opposite - diagnosing the fault properly saves a fortune and this is where Autoclinic excel! Paul is kindly offering you half price diagnostics on production of this advert. Don’t forget to try them for your spare chipped car keys too starting from £55 + VAT and same day service - I lost my key once and it cost me over £450 being without a car for 2 weeks while the dealer ordered the new one from France! Utter chaos so don’t do the same mums!

We all read a lot of rubbish on the Internet with false reviews and the like, but be in no doubt, these guys are excellent! I was apprehensive at first, but I am now converted and have utmost respect for Paul and his crew.

Mark Brewer, Telford

All part of the Service...

If you’re looking for a personal service from friendly experts this company are lovely! It’s not every day you hear about an electrical company that visit an elderly lady regularly and change her lightbulbs free of charge!

As with any job in the home it’s worth obtaining a recommendation so here’s a couple that P.S Higgins provided to show you lovely mums just how they operate...

“We are so pleased we decided to have solar panels installed on our roof. Not only are we getting money back from our electric suppler and the government but our electric bill has gone down considerably during the summer months. We made enough money from them in the summer months to pay for the electricity and gas bills for that period.

Paul Johnson came to give us a quote and he was most helpful, he suggested we had 8 panels on the front and 8 panels on the back to maximise the sunny periods as we did not have a south facing roof, (no one else that we had had a quote from suggested this).He also overlooked the installation and did the electrics himself. The installation only took a few days and was very professionally done with no mess whatsoever. The scaffolding was put up on the day they started and taken down immediately they had finished.

I would not hesitate to deal with P S Higgins again” Rita Derbyshire, Market Drayton.

“We have always used PS Higgins for any electrical job over the years, they are trustworthy, honest and carry out the work at a time that suits us and we are always really pleased with what they do” Denise Hodgson, Shropshire.

mums the word 29

The Small Bowl of Rice

Relax be very still and listen – listen carefully to this tale about a miser who lived in a big mansion at the top of a lonely hill. One day something happened that was to change his life forever.

Do you want to know what it was? Let’s see if we can find out...

Now, the misers mansion was very old, big and draughty. He lived there alone, apart from a few servants and a dog he had never bothered to name. The miser slept and ate in one of the mansions many towers and spent his days counting and recounting his gold.

In fact he only went out once a year for fear of spending any money. And on this day he would travel in a grand carriage with his dog and servant to collect taxes from the poor peaasants who farmed his lands.

One year he was returniing home after a very successful day collecting taxes. Night was falling and as he hugged his large sack of gold his carriage was suddenly stopped by robbers.

‘Help’ he shouted but it was no use. The robbers stripped the miser of his clothes, made him put on rags and took him and his dog far out into the He loved gold more than anything in the world countryside where they left them with no food or - he never shared or even spent it and he was water. well known for being the meanest man there ever was. He was so mean he had never invited The next day he woke up feeling cold, sore and anyone to his house nor given anyone a present. hungry. He set off with the dog in search of a

soft for en’s t lenty hildr c eigh s ls, p w e e e g n n a n d r tu Bran itable fo reas pits, ing a Ball nses! d su clud e s an s. play in s ie r e b e h t partie ba und rd stic ire. and o a and t s lf r y, n e T Fa unda ive h oddle ition to clus ies y–S for t d x il a d e d m a n a t gf ea es n Mo A gr fferin d ag Ope – 6pm. mixe ink o r Ice R ildren of ies unde 10am it ch activ with ty of ie r a av t roof. us a one

K E RIN C I ORD F L E T

Find

e, Centr Town ate, G n .uk uenti JQ re.co St. Q rd TF3 4 9966 leisu Telfo 845 155 ndwrekin 0 a Tel: .telford www

30

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village, walking and walking, until eventually they came to a road although they stil didn’t see anyone. After walking all day without food, the miser felt deperately hungry and sorry for himself.

Then, all of a sudden his dog barked and ran off.

Soon, his hunger brought him back to the present and he tucked into the rice. He ate it greedily thinking how nothing had ever tasted so delicious!

The miser was so infected by the warmth of the kind mans heart and found himself confiding in him how he had been robbed.

The man listened intently and when the miser had finished he said ‘Your story makes me sad - you have so much yet your life is so lonely and empty’ Then he gave the miser his sleeping spot in front of the fire, said goodnight and lay doen on the floor to get a good nights sleep.

The Miser followed him, only to find a lone little cottage surrounded by wild rose bushes. He saw white smoke rising from its chimney. Encouraged , he knocked on the door but then hesitated remembering with shame how he had always sent away anyone who had knocked on his own door for help. Why would anyone want to help a man dressed in rags such as himself? He was just about to leave when a cheerful voice called ‘Who’s There?’

Relieved, the miser replied humbly, ‘I’m sorry to disturb you but I’m lost and hungry. Could you please spare my dog and I some food?

And would there be any chance of us sleeping somwehere warm please?’

‘Of course - come in’ replied the friendly voice.

So the miser went in and the dog followed. The room was quite bare - there were only a few pieces of old furniture and no curtains at the windows. But there was a small fire in the hearth and sitting at the table was a kind looking man who had a brown dog by his side wagging his tail.

The miser was so moved by this kindness, and so grateful for it, that as he lay down by the fire thinking about what had happened his mean heart began to melt. Tears streamed down his cheeks for now he saw how terrible his life really was. He reached ou to his dog and patted him for the first time ever and resolved to repay the mans generosity a thousand fold.

The next morning when he awoke, he invited the poor man and his dog to come and live with him in his mansion - an offer which they gladly accepted. Without delay, they all set off for the misers home.

And so it was that from that day forward the miser changed his ways. He and the poor man became the best of friends living happily together with Archie and Merry - as he named his dog - who flourished with the newfound attention. No one was ever again turned away empty-handed from the mansion on the hill. And instead of collecting taxes, the miser used his gold to improve the lives of local people. Twice a year, he even held feasts for his neighbours and parties for the children which were so enjoyable that they became the talk of the land.

moral of the story...

The man got up from his table and laughed heartily. ‘It’s a poor lost soul, Archie, he told his Greed and selfishness spoil things for everyone but dog ‘and he’s brought you a new friend!’

‘Come in and sit down’ he said turning to the miser. ‘Welcome to my feast! Tonight we have a banquet of delicious rice!’ he joked. The man went to a shelf and took down two small bowls ‘We’ll have to share this rice as it’s all I have I’m afraid’ he added. ‘And your dog can share Archie’s’. Saying this, he put some rice in Archie’s large bowl for the two dogs anddivided the rest between the two small bowls for himself and the miser, who couldn’t believe the man’s generosity.

How could he be so poor yet so happy? The miser thought of all his gold, his servants and his mansion. But despite all of this he had never been as happy as this man who had so little. He was filled with guilt and shame for his miesrly behaviour over the years.

more importantly will never make us happy - we cannot always see how our actions affect others around us. A wise person realises that the way to true happiness is through sharing whatever they have, no matter how little that may be.

All of the stories we choose will have a moral in them as children love being given something to think about. Why not use this as a chance to ask your children about the story and what they thought of the different elements of it - is there anything they would change? Discuss how different things would be if they changed some behaviours and you could even use this as a way of highlighting and celebrating what your children do well - ie if they are already kind natured how would if affect others around them if they became meaner? How would the family be affected if mummy changed anything and what could we all change for the better even if it’s only something tiny? mums the word 31

FUN FOR KIDS AT GRAND! Great Theatre atTHE the Grand!

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mums the word