Nourish & Flow

Yesterday we took the boys to a Birds of Prey Centre for the day.  It rained for most of the day, and was very cold, but that didn't stop us having a really lovely time.  Luke, in particular, really loves animals and for day trips he always chooses something animal related.  This was a late birthday present for him, as we didn't have chance to go nearer his birthday.   We watched three shows and had the chance to hold two of the owls, which Luke really loved doing.  We had a good look around and took lots of photo's.  Dylan really enjoyed it too and loved looking at the birds and learning about them, and eating in the cafe as he's always hungry.  It was a lovely day and i'd love to share some of the photos that we took. The day was even more special as i'm going to London in a few days and, although it's only for 3 nights, i'll really miss my boys.  It was lovely to do this with them before I go.   After ...

Sometimes in the chaos of everyday life, there is nothing more relaxing than a trip out into nature.  The fresh air and peace and quiet are very good for the soul, and something that I find essential in life.  Combining that with my passion for photography makes it even more enjoyable.   So this last week, me and Luke have taken many trips outdoors, to the park, the woods and our favourite nature reserve.  I took my camera along and we both enjoyed taking lots of photos of trees, birds and other creatures.  It's a lovely way to connect with your children, and Luke really enjoys carrying the camera around, taking pictures of everything he sees.  It's also lovely when you have a passion that you can share with your child, and I really hope his love of photography will last.   For myself, after yoga I think being outdoors comes a close second in nourishing my soul and calming my mind.  I always feel so much happier after a lovely long walk in the...

Over the last year i've made many changes to my health and my life, i've taken courses, had coaching from some amazing coaches, spent time planning my career and put lots thought into the importance of following my dreams.  It's all been amazing, as well as emotionally draining at times.  However, one of the things i've been thinking about a lot lately is fear, and how that affects me and my journey to find true happiness.  I did a post about this on my yoga blog a few days ago, after it came up in one of the art courses that i'm doing, and it's been on my mind almost constantly since.  I know that I need to find the confidence and courage to leave my comfort zone, and face my fears, and that is my next step. One of the things which makes me feel very anxious is travelling alone.  It may seem a silly thing to be scared of, but, as I had my children very young, i've never really gone very far on my own.  Even when I recently went to the Juice Ac...

During our time homeschooling, Luke has always enjoyed learning whilst playing.  One of his favourite games is Monopoly.  We have many versions of this game and it has been very educational for him.   Here are some of the ways it has helped him: Reading - he likes to read out all the cards. Maths - he is sometimes the banker, and he works out how much change people need.   Geography - we have the London Monopoly and this has helped him learn some well known places in our capital. Writing - he likes to make up different rules and he'll write them down. Imagination - again he enjoys making up new rules, making the game much more eventful. This kind of learning is enjoyable for him, as it's fun and something he really loves to do.  This is one of the reasons homeschooling can work really well as you can adapt to your child and work with what they enjoy.  Learning through doing what you love is the best way to learn and it's these moments make ...

Last weekend was very special for the boys, and I was very proud to share it with them .  On Saturday, Luke took part in a parade with his dance class.  It's the first time he's ever done anything like this and he had a lovely time, even though it involved a two hour walk in very hot sun.  I really enjoyed walking with him, some lovely quality time together.  He managed some good dance moves to entertain the crowds too.  Then Sunday was a very special day for Dylan as he took part in the British Championships in taekwondo.  We arrived at 8am and left at 6:30pm, so it was a very long day, but seeing Dylan so happy to be competing was really lovely.  He did very well in his fight, and just lost out in the last round.  He tried so hard though, and couldn't have given any more.  It was a really good experience for him, as he wants to keep competing, both in England and abroad.  I was very proud of him, and he still came away with a...

Well I arrived home late last night from Jason Vales Juice Academy and it was one of the most amazing experiences of my life.  Jason was so passionate and enthusiastic, and a genuinely lovely guy.  He clearly loves what he does, and wants to help as many people as possible discover juicing.   Everyone on the course were so lovely too, and i've made so many friends who share my passion for natural health.  They were all so supportive and encouraging.   I managed to overcome a few fears whilst I was there too, speaking in front of an audience and speaking in front of a camera.  I was really nervous, but as the days went on I felt more and more confident. Jason has asked me to be in his next documentary, which he is filming next year.  He wants me to share my story of losing weight, and overcoming illnesses.  I am so excited and still can't quite believe it.  It's an amazing opportunity.   Since I arrived home...

Yesterday my little man celebrated his 10th birthday.  I honestly don't know where the time has gone, and how he got to double figures so quickly, but I did know that I wanted it to be really special. We always take a trip somewhere on their birthdays, and Luke always chooses somewhere with animals.  He decided he wanted to go to the safari park again, so that's what we did.  He loved seeing the animals, watching the sea lion and birds of prey shows and exploring in nature.  It's also a brilliant way to learn in a fun and relaxed environment. I got a bit carried away with my camera and took about 300 photos, mostly of deers, but these are a few of my favourites. We even had a visit from a gorgeous little squirrel who came up to the car and stared at us, probably waiting for food. We then had a lovely picnic in the sunshine, whilst Luke explored some rather big leaves. Then today we set off to the seaside for ...