Bonfire2010

We got one from Mothercare, and a sword from Just Williams.

I swore by 'Baby Love' by Robin Barker when I had my first son, and still refer back to it now I have an 8 month old. The author is Australian so some of the advice (contact numbers for support services etc.) are Aus based, but the advice is very matter of fact and no-nonsense.

This was on an email I was sent the other day - might give you some ideas? http://www.playpennies.com/10-tips-organising-kids-artwork-108324

We used K&O Pest Control when we had mice last year. They deal with all vermin and we were pleased with the service. They have lots of recommendations in the Business and Trades section.

Yes, that's exactly what it feels like, Strawbs. My little one has had it for about 4 days with nothing else apart from the diarrhoea, so hopefully it doesn't develop into anything more. He seems a bit better today (*hopefully not tempting fate*) and whatever it is has certainly not put him off of his food. Hope everyone is feeling a bit better soon.

Oh dear - hope you are both OK!

My youngest (7 months) has had an upset tummy for a few days. No vomiting (yet) but lots of diarrhoea and angry nappy rash. He is absolutely fine in himself - very happy, no temperature, eating well etc. but I'm just wondering if there is something going around or if it might be something he's eaten which has disagreed with him.

Wow - thanks for that bonaome! We've flown Thai a number of times (pre-kids) and agree that they are good to fly with. I also love Bangkok but don't think it's right this time around, but I actually stayed in Phuket for a week or so about 16 years ago, so maybe it's time for another visit! Would love SA but my husband isn't keen so that's out (this time around anyway!) Thanks to everyone for your suggestions, much appreciated.

Have heard very mixed things about Dubai - it seems people either love it or hate it!

Thanks all. Anybody been to Abu Dhabi?! Brother-in-law has announced he's moving there in Jan so that might be an option I guess, although we are really after a beach holiday. We're moving to Aus and this will be our last chance for a family holiday for a while, so want something relaxing but not mega-bucks...

Thanks Melbourne Groover - that's another to consider. We usually do a one-night stop there in the airport hotel, so might be nice to actually see a bit of the place!

We are flying to Melbourne in Jan/Feb and want to have a holiday on the way for 1-2 weeks. We love Thailand, but don't fancy the extra flight to an island with two small, tired kids in tow so I am looking for ideas. I am considering Dubai so it would be great to hear thoughts on there. If anyone has any hotels/places to stay (not only in Dubai) to recommend that would be great too. My sons will be 1 and 4 when we leave. Thanks

I have just finished a course with Jelly Belly and it was 10am on a Wednesday. I think Kellie also runs classes on Mondays but I'm not sure of the time. I did post-natal pilates with Jelly Belly after both of my pregnancies and would highly recommend.

Thank you all for your suggestions - really appreciated.

Great - thanks EastDulwichSE22 and henryb! Pickle - will also look into Crystal Palace, thanks x

My little boy (nearly 4) wants to go on a climbing wall. He loves climbing (like most children his age), and isn't really showing an interest in other sports such as kids football etc. so, even though he's probably a bit young, if this could be something he's interested in we would like to encourage it. JAGS climbing wall is for age 7+, so I am wondering if anyone knows of somewhere with a wall for younger kids.

My oldest son has been there since he was in the baby room (at 9 months) and he is just about to move into pre-school (he is nearly 4). We will be starting my youngest son in November when he is 11 months. We have always been happy with the nursery, it has a lovely feel to it, the staff are caring and my son has made some lovely friends (as have I!) through being there. There is a lot of outdoor space including a large wildlife garden complete with chickens and the babies have their own little garden to play in. We looked at a lot of nurseries when we were trying to find somewhere for my oldest son, and Mother Goose felt right from the start.

Signed.

Another vote for Birth Skills by JuJu Sindin. I was very apprehensive when my second baby was coming along and I found her techniques very helpful and down to earth. I sold my copy a while ago but you can get hold of it on Amazon.

A friend of mine works for a charity in Bromley which assists families in deprived circumstances, and women and children who have fled from domestic abuse. I know that they sometimes require maternity clothes (they have very limited storage and can usually only take donations of items they currently require). If you are interested I can ask her what they are currently in need of and let you know.

Sorry - cross post with dutchestatefamily.

Mother Goose (Greendale and Waveny Av)opens 7.30am-6.30pm.

We had one of the Lucy Sparkles 'crew' for our son's 3rd birthday and she went down well. She came as a pirate and did lots of singing, dancing, parachutes and bubbles. As with acb2013 I found Lucy herself to be very responsive and flexible (we changed the number of children attending and the time we wanted her). The lady that came to the party was lovely too. I think they do the whole shebang (cake, food, party bags, invites etc) if you want them to, but we just went for the basic entertainment package.

You'll note my comment was over a year ago - no idea what it is like now!!!

SE15 mum - I am selling a tandem Britax B-Dual if you want to have a look :-)